Young actors present a thought-provoking play about the dangers of social media, Theatre Royal, Workington, 16th to 19th January
The problem with girls like that is they ruin it for everyone.
The problem with girls like that is they give all girls a bad name.
When a photograph of schoolgirl Scarlett goes viral, rumours spread across smartphones like wildfire and her reputation is poisoned, threatening to shatter the fragile bonds of friendship between a group of girls who have grown up together. But how long can Scarlett remain silent? And why isn’t it the same for boys?
This hard-hitting, topical play explores the relentless pressure exerted on young people by advancing technology. Specially commissioned by Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Theatre Royal Plymouth and West Yorkshire Playhouse, Girls Like That was developed through work with young people in 2013. Our production of this play is the first one undertaken by older members of Theatre Royal Youth.
‘Deserves to be widely seen by teenage audiences. And by their parents too, who will probably flinch…’ Guardian
‘A well-written, immaculately crafted and brave piece of energetic theatre.’ A Younger Theatre.
This production marks a number of firsts: this is Director Jane Douglas’s debut, as well as being the first production specifically taken on by Theatre Royal Youth’s older members. The age range in TRY is now 8 to 18 and this is a new initiative to give the older members (aged 16 to 18) an opportunity to present a play on a par with the main Workington Playgoers’ productions.
The play is entertaining and thought-provoking and presents a considerable challenge to the young actors. Director Jane Douglas says: ‘I’m really pleased I’m not a teenager growing up today with all the technology and social media pressures. I was concerned at first about some of the content in the play, but am very proud of how well the girls have dealt with it – I’m not sure I would have done so well at their age!’
Whether you are a teenager, a parent or anyone who is concerned about the pressures today’s young people face, this is a must-see production. The show runs from Wednesday 16th to Saturday 19th January and starts at 7pm. Tickets are £7 and £5 concessions (via the Theatre Royal website http://www.theatre-royal-workington.co.uk/girls-like-that/). They will also be available on the door.
