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Scatterbrained

In their fantastic, feast-for-the-eyes costumes – including brightly coloured converses and Oompa Loompa style facepaint – Dolphin School Theatre Company put together a very physical piece of theatre: a tale of Gerald the giant and his small friend Martha in this story about dementia.

The large cast stays on stage throughout, moving around each other to create an impression of a chorus of supportive giants for Gerald and his memory loss problems. Visually it is incredibly stimulating; this cast is also used to create a sense of place, utilising several clever techniques such as employing bubbles to simulate an active volcano. The waistcoats of these giants must have been the work of a small genius. I spent a lot of the performance trying to work out the significance of the eclectic range of objects that are pinned all over them, some of which relate to characters that they later become in the show and some which just add another layer of interest - of particular note is a to-do list which contains the instruction ‘Breathe’.

It might seem strange to use a cast of children to deal with the issue of aging but this only adds to the pathos of the performance. It has a childish, quirky appeal through most of the show until it suddenly hits a sharply painful moment as the seriousness of the themes are realised.

This is by no means an unflawed production but it compensates for that by being stimulating and inventive. It is wrong to expect completely polished acting from such a very young theatre troop and this may appeal to youngsters all the more for having people of their own age group in it. What with its original storyline and the inventive form of presentation it has plenty to offer for those who are looking for something a bit different.

Since you’re here…

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You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
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Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
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Performances

The Blurb

Gerald, the greatest giant ever, can plug volcanoes, turn tsunamis around, and be the best of friends ... until one day his life goes a bit wonky and he starts forgetting things. Only his tiny friend Martha can help him.
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