Details

1800s, West Africa. The British have begun their colonisation. As the people are forced to conform, young Abeni stands alone in resisting the unwelcome strength of the Empire. 1960s, London. The swinging sixties brings music, modernity, and new cultures to post-war Britain. A generation of Caribbeans are invited into the city, excited for new horizons and opportunity. Missy joins them, quickly discerning the obstacles keeping her from settling into her new home. 2018, London. In order to be closer to University, Aya moves in with her grandmother, Missy, on a run-down council estate. But is their newly found shared companionship on shaky ground, as profit is to be made from the place they call home? Through the eyes of three women, Abeni, Missy and Aya, Rush tells their story as it spans across the generations. Connected in ancestry, united in ‘spirit' but divided by experiences of oppression echoing across the centuries. Combining music, movement, dance and multi-media, Rush is a powerful production created and developed by Chickenshed's diverse creative team and student groups.

Cast/Performers

Natsai Gurupira (Missy), Amber Ogunsaya (Young Missy), Cara McInanny (Aya), Grace Wariola (Abeni), Jack Alder (Stephen), Jonny Morton (Colonel Mandeville), Cerys Lambert (Persephone), Matthew Lyons (Reverend Ledwell)

Creatives/Company

Author(s): Dave Carey, Ashley Driver, Sebastian Ross, Sophie White
Design(s): Andrew Caddies, Andrew Caddies (video), Phil Haines (video)
Sound: Phil Haines
Music: Dave Carey
Other: Zeeta Jacobs (production manager)
Costume: Emma Gale