Cloud Nine (2006)

From sltarchive
Jump to: navigation, search
Poster by Mark Davies

by Caryl Churchill

Directed by Dave Hollander

Performances: Wed 20th – Sat 23rd September 2006, Prompt Corner


Introduction

In 19th century colonial Africa, Clive and his family are flying the flag for the British Empire. At first glance, they represent the model of civilized society, ably assisted by their servant Joshua, a local man. However, it soon becomes clear that all is not well - Clive's wife and mother-in-law seem disquieted by their remoteness from British society; and his young son, Edward, is not the pillar of masculinity he might have hoped. The cracks in the family portrait really begin to show with the arrival of intrepid British explorer, Harry Bagley and the distraught Mrs Saunders, who has recently recovered from an attack by 'the natives'.

In Act 2, the setting has shifted to 1970s London, but the characters have matured by 25 years. Betty is having problems adjusting to modern urban life and longs for the heat of Africa. Meanwhile her daughter, Victoria, is unhappily married and seems to spend most of her time hanging out at the local playgroup with another young mother, Lin. Edward has found work as a gardener in the local park and is similarly dissatisfied with Gerry, his lover. How will resolution be achieved?

Caryl Churchill's classic play covers 'serious' themes: family values, sexuality, race and conflict. Nonetheless, Churchill deals with these topics with characteristic lightness of touch - their apparent heaviness is tempered by uproarious physical and verbal humour.

Cast

Act 1

Act 2

Crew

Reviews

Gallery

Photo thumbnails go here with links to larger images. [Image:CloudNineAftershow.jpg|thunb|300px|Cast and director at the aftershow party]

Reminiscences and Anecdotes

Members are encouraged to write about their experiences of working on or seeing this production. Please leave your name. Anonymous entries may be deleted.

See Also

External Links