Sarah Ewen, Theatre Technician Stage Manager at the London College of Music (LCM) at the University of West London (UWL) is taking a group of students on tour with ‘Calls for Castlemar’, her original adaptation of Canadian playwright Robin Taylor Wright’s ‘Home for Boys’.
An ambitious student-led production
The production features a small but powerful cast consisting of students Isabella Higton, Maria Amado and Jazmine Byers. They are supported by a highly skilled student creative team, with Anna Weavers acting as Assistant Director and Assistant Stage Manager, and Charlie Edwards serving as Music Director, having composed an original score for the show.
Calls From Castlemar explores the difficult dynamics between three young residents of a children’s home. Through snappy dialogue, comedic levity, and youthful play, the production examines themes of identity, belonging, forced family, and jealousy – all set within a world in which adults appear distant or absent altogether.
A committed and creative team
The cast and crew have demonstrated outstanding commitment, rehearsing from 5 – 8pm, Monday to Friday since mid-March. Creating a full production within such a limited timeframe is a testament to the students’ professionalism, resilience and passion for performance.
Director Sarah said of her vision:
“I hope this is a show audiences can resonate with as this world is brought to life by a dedicated and talented cast and crew. The show follows characters on their own journeys of acceptance and defiance at a sensitive time in their lives.”
Anna Weavers, a second year BA (Hons) Contemporary Theatre and Performance student, said:
“Working on this show has been such a great experience and full of collaboration. My favourite part has been discovering the backstories of the characters and finding the special moments between them. I’m excited for it to make its UK debut.”
Charlie Edwards, a second year BA (Hons) Music Technology student, said:
“It has been a great experience to see my compositions come to life through the actors!”
Isabella Higton, a first year BA (Hons) Acting student, said:
“Being a part of this production has been so much fun! Journaling as my character, dancing to her favourite songs and being in such a supportive rehearsal space have been fundamental in creating her mindset. I cannot wait to perform for Brighton and Camden fringes!”
Where and when to see it
The production opens at UWL’s Freddies with a live trailer performance on 28 April, followed by a full performance and company Q&A on 30 April.
The show then travels to The Walrus (Fringe Venue 518) at the Brighton Fringe on 3 and 4 May. More details here.
Finally, Calls from Castlemar will appear at the Camden Fringe, performed at Barons Court Theatre from Monday 17 to Wednesday 19 August.
