Scratchdays 2020: The Field
Written by Mark Norfolk
Directed by Jeffrey Kissoon
Ka Zimba Theatre and The Muse Gallery as part of SCRATCHDAYS at The Muse are pleased to present The Field, Mark Norfolk’s timely play about the life of 19th century activist, William Davidson featuring members of the cast from the west end production of Witness For The Prosecution.
With the abrupt closure of UK theatres in March due to Covid-19, the thrilling murder mystery by Agatha Christie closed its doors with just a few weeks to go for the current cast, leaving behind a distinct sense of anti-climax. But now, largely due to actor and director,
Jeffery Kissoon, some of the cast now have an opportunity to ‘tread the boards’ together one more time, albeit digitally, in a play that coincides with the 200th anniversary of one of the most politically charged periods in British social history. Tackling themes such as equality, poverty, race and justice The Field reflects on a slice of British history often overlooked.
Synopsis
Not long after the Peterloo Massacre, Jamaican-born William Davidson, attends a meeting of the radical group, The Spencean Philanthropists where he meets charismatic leader, Arthur Thistlewood and is persuaded to carry out an audacious plan to topple the government.
However William is caught and charged with high treason. His wife, Sarah Davidson, learns of her husband’s offence when she is visited by the police and is horrified at what it means for her young family. As William and Sarah face up to the consequences of his actions, William makes a final heartfelt plea from the dock about the rights of English men to protest against tyranny.
Alexandria Guelff as Sarah Davidson
Benjamin Cawley as William Davidson
George Howard as Clerk/Guard
Kevin McMonagle as Tom Swaggart
Mark Grindrod as Lord Chief Justice
Owen Oakeshott as Arthur Thislewood
Riley Stewart as John Sheldon