I wrote a play for Theatre Cap a Pie which which was performed for the first time in summer 2002, called 'The Following.'
Based on ideas taken from the story of the Children's Crusade, the play looks at how people act when they are part of a large group; how powerful leaders can affect the way people behave, and how people act when they believe in a 'cause.'
The play is set in the modern day, and looks at how some young people behave as they chase fame - at a cost. They want to be famous like their idols - soap stars, footballers and pop idols - but their journey is difficult and at times dangerous...
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'Well – anyone can act, can’t they? It’s just pretending…me dad ‘acts’ when he reels in, stinking of beer and tells me ma that he hasn’t been in the club all afternoon…me brother ‘acts’ when the Social ask him if he’s done any work as he signs on…me Ma ‘acts’ when she says she’s not tired…me sister ‘acts’ when she says she missed the last bus coming home from the toon and had to stop over with her mates…!'
It Features...
Lauren who dances to please her frustrated and unfulfilled mother
Kerry who just for once wants to 'feel really important…special somehow…'
Lee a joker who wants a 'chance to make some SERIOUS money'
Ben a singer who longs for his own band and a chance to prove his worth
Luke the serious actor...
Brenda beautiful but insecure
Jen who longs to sing in the West End
Lucy the poet who refuses to compromise
Donna who wants to be the next Stephen King
Sophie the goth with the voice of an angel...
Gordon - aka 'The Great Gordo' - who wants to be 'mysterious' to interest the girls...and Gonzo, his rabbit!
Eddie the lonely stand up comedian
They come up against a cynical promoter who uses them for his own ends...and learn a great deal about themselves, and the price of fame.
