Details

Originally written for TV, Dennis Potter's deceptively simple tale relates to the activities of seven West-Country seven-year-olds on a summer afternoon during the Second World War, in a wood, a field and a barn. The children (all played by adult actors) play, fight fantasise and swagger, their aggressions, fears, hostilities and rivalries a microcosm of adult interaction. Easy-going Willie tags along as burly Peter bullies gentle Raymond and is challenged by fair minded John. Plain Audrey is overshadowed by Angela's prettiness and wreaks her angry frustrations on the boys. All of them gang up on the terrified 'Donald Duck' who, abused by his mother and ridiculed by his peers, plays his own dangerous game of pyromania which ends in tragedy.

Cast/Performers

Heather Craney (Angela), John Gully (John), Alex Jones (Willie), Russell Layton (Peter), Helena Lymbery (Audrey), Paul McCrink (Donald Duck), Nick Raggett (Raymond)

Creatives/Company

Author: Dennis Potter
Producer: New Vic (Newcastle-under-Lyme)
Director: Laurie Sansom
Design: Jess Curtis
Sound: James Earls-Davis
Lighting: Jo Dawson
Other: Mark Langley (voice coach)