Play Details
Context
Artistic Director
Vicky Featherstone
Dates Performed
Wednesday 7th January 2015
Jerwood Theatre Upstairs
Play Details
Synopsis
Libera, 1992, during the First Civil War.
As Papay Taylor’s rebels draw near their village, Mamie Esther and her 14-year-old daughter, Martha, make a pivotal decision to head toward Monrovia instead of crossing the border into Guinea. For safety, Martha disguises herself as a boy, adopting the name Peter. However, their plan takes a harrowing turn when they are intercepted by the rebels and torn apart. Martha finds herself coerced into joining the rebel ranks, participating in acts of extreme violence while concealing her real identity. Amidst the chaos, she clings to the hope of escape, and eventually, an opportunity to flee arises.
Cast & Creative
Cast
Landry Adelard
Cast
Michael Ajao
Cast
Mariéme Diouf
Cast
Fraser James
Cast
Edward Kagutuzi
Cast
Cecilia Noble
Cast
Valentine Olukoga
Cast
Weruche Opia
Cast
Juma Sharkah
Designer
Anna Fleischle
Lighting
Philip Gladwell
What our readers say
What is it like reading this play now?
This play delivers a powerful and emotionally charged portrayal. Although the Liberian war has concluded, the plight of child soldiers in conflicts globally keeps the subject matter pertinent. The depiction of extreme violence is impactful, but what resonates more deeply is the grooming of these young boys – lured by promises of wealth, luxury, and recognition from Papay himself. The narrative extends beyond Liberia and its civil war, shedding light on the broader issue of exploiting vulnerable children in times of conflict.
Do you have favourite moment?
The scene where Martha, is unable to carry out the forced rape of Finda, is particularly striking in its stage direction. As the moment unfolds, Finda’s screams cease, and she looks towards the audience, her expression one of confusion. Martha, in her act, pretends to reach a climax and hastily pulls up her trousers. In a brief, intense moment, Martha and Finda lock eyes, conveying a world of unspoken emotions. This poignant exchange culminates with Martha delivering a hard slap to Finda’s face.
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