By Bertolt Brecht, translated by Alistair Beaton
Directed by Lisa May
“My duty as judge is to choose a mother for the child. We will have a test. Place the child in the circle…”
‘The Caucasian Chalk Circle’ is a master-piece of 20th Century drama, powerfully demonstrating Bertolt Brecht’s pioneering theatrical techniques and will be at the Alley Theatre on Friday 29th November. A servant girl sacrifices everything to protect a baby abandoned in the heat of war. Order restored, she is made to confront the boy’s mother in a legal contest over who deserves to keep him. The comical judge calls on an ancient tradition “the chalk circle” to resolve the dispute. Who wins?
Bruiser is delighted to be presenting this modern classic with a brand new musical score licensed by the Brecht Estate, composed by Matthew Reeve, who has previously worked with Bruiser on ‘Sweet Charity’, ‘Lady Windermere’s Fan’ and ‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’.
Matthew says, “The music for ‘Chalk Circle’ has been a real creative challenge. The entire score will be sung and played by the actors themselves live on stage. We wanted to create something both haunting and anthemic, reflecting the hard-hitting action of the play. A lot of the music has been developed in rehearsals with the actors too. We can’t wait for people to hear it.”
From the Company that brought you last year’s hugely popular ‘Lady Windermere’s Fan’ tour – Bruiser’s innovative performance style coupled with Brecht’s superb play is guaranteed to produce a first class winter’s night at the theatre!
Gilly Campbell, Dance and Drama Officer, Arts Council of Northern Ireland says, “The Arts Council is pleased to support Bruiser Theatre Company with this excellent production of Brecht’s The Caucasian Chalk Circle. With the play touring a number of towns and cities across Northern Ireland, I encourage everyone to go along and experience this renowned play which will take audiences on an emotional and moving journey.”
Tickets are £9, £7 (con) and available from the Alley Theatre Box Office on 028 71 384444 or online www.alley-theatre.com