The young Theatre Company members went about devising new elements to the WOEs script with some small instruction from Director Yasmin Sidhwa. She suggested that they think about “a place of safety. Where is it? How does it affect you? Does it close you in or make you feel free? When you speak the words, who are you saying them to – yourself, your diary, the audience?”
Here is an example of one of the monologues written by a Company member, which has been developed as part of the new script.
Monologue
This is the place where I feel sanctuary. Music blasting! All different types taking my mind off…everything!
Mum was trying so hard to make everything perfect for Alana’s special day.
But then Dad arrives and everything changes - I could see it in her face, I could see it in her actions. She was trying to keep silent, not let the fact that Dad still hadn’t paid her get to her!
But she couldn’t help herself - she has to go and suggest the meal, insisting Dad pays!
And then it all starts - Alana picks up on the tension, trying to stop them from ruining her day.
I stayed back in silence, just waiting for the usual, reoccurring, futile bickering to stop! But of course - it doesn’t!
We can’t be a proper family anymore!
I’ll take Alana out – calm her down – a walk in the park to cheer her up! But that won’t be my place, that won’t clear my head!
If you would like to find out more about Walking on Eggshells, email Yasmin Sidhwa