Salvador Kent
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What would it be like to watch political theatre that felt like a commentary on whatever was happening when you opened up your phone?
The General Will is my attempt.
Right now, a particular story leaps out at me. I’m the son of a Peruvian immigrant. My theatrical journey started in Peru. So what is my identity in relation to this country? In a certain recent speech about immigration, was the ‘stranger’ referred to my mother? My friend? Me?
The play begins with two clown politicians – a Prime Minister and his Junior – bartering for power, and appealing increasingly to the right wing.
In the second scene, two clownish theatremakers, one of whom is an immigrant, react to the news of the day.
Both spaces, the rehearsal room and the cabinet office, are spaces of discourse and manipulation. The rehearsal room is certainly informed, whether we like it or not, by the mood of the Cabinet Office. Whether the Cabinet Office is, in turn, informed by the general will—expressed in a rehearsal room… well. That’s not so clear.
But at the end of the day, they’re all clowns. The play’s deep – but it’s played for laughs. And that’s the beauty of theatre – asking difficult questions, having a great time while you’re at it.
Grab a pint beforehand (alcoholic or not) and bring a friend. We’d love to see you there!
The General Will (a farce for an island of strangers) runs at TheSpaceUK @ Surgeons’ Hall (Haldane Theatre) from 1-16 August (not 10) at 21.40 (60 minutes). Tickets (£10 / £8 conc. & 1-3 Previews £5 / £4 conc.) are available through the EdFringe Online Box Office.
Jake Mace
Lamesha Ruddock
Jasmine Silk
