Gazebo Theatre are a Theatre in Education company that bring authentic issues to life through powerful theatre. Their latest production Wanted is a hard-hitting story about extraordinary women.
What can women of the pat teach us about our lives today? Telling the story of five incredible women, Wanted is a production that explores a whole range of political, historical and social issues affecting today’s community. Titled ‘Wanted’, this play explores women that have been ‘wanted’ and locked up for doing what they believe is right. This show bravely tackles anxiety to abuse and the Black Lives Matter movement – the story travels through time to highlight different characters. What can women of the past teach us about our lives today?
We meet Irena Sendler (Pamela Cole-Hudson), who rescued more than 2,500 children from the Warsaw ghetto during the Nazi occupation. Also Olive Morris (Tonia Daley-Campbell), British Black Panther and avid activist for women and squatters rights; Phoolan Devi (Karendip Phull), the fearsome Bandit Queen and a woman way ahead of her time Dr James Barry (Therese Collins). These brilliant women from throughout history meet young Leoni Lawrence (April Nerissa Hudson) who is dealing with many of the modern issues women face today.
It’s interesting to see these different women intertwine to spark conversation about their vastly different lives. These moments pose important questions and discussions within the show, creating a stimulating piece of theatre.
Alongside the conversational scenes, each woman also has her own moment to tell her story. The cast are dynamic, bringing humour and humility to the play whilst also maintaining a real sense of honesty. You are instantly drawn into their stories because of the way they connect with each other and the audience.
Writers Pam Cole-Hudson, Tonia Daley-Campbell and Therese Collins use poetic language and striking stories to drive the narrative. With empowering music that weaves within the scenes, the production flows superbly.
When Leoni doesn’t know what else to do and how to continue on with the pain in her life, it is the other woman that build her up and inspire her with their words of wisdom.
Honest, moving and inspiring, Wanted is an excellent new piece of theatre that tackles issues in a compelling and thought-provoking way.
Find out more about Gazebo Theatre and stream Wanted on their website.
