Play Details
Context
Artistic Director
Ian Rickson
Part of
Young Writers’ Festival: Workers Writes
Dates Performed
Friday 14th December 2001
Jerwood Theatre Upstairs
Form
Play Details
Synopsis
A suburban Australian primary school
Kingswood Kids takes place in a suburban Australian primary school, where a group of young children navigate the everyday challenges of growing up. In the midst of playground politics, family pressures, and the trials of friendship, these children confront issues that mirror the complexities of the adult world around them. As they grapple with bullying, socio-economic divides, and the quest for acceptance, the schoolyard becomes a microcosm of broader societal struggles.
Betzien’s play delves into the resilience of youth, exploring themes of identity, social inequality, and the innocence of childhood in stark contrast to the harsh realities these children must face. Through a series of interconnected vignettes, Kingswood Kids unfolds with a blend of humour and poignancy, capturing the authentic voices of young people. The play’s emotional depth is underscored by Betzien’s direct, yet compassionate storytelling, which brings to light the unspoken challenges faced by children in a world shaped by adult conflicts.