This season we had launched a new ‘Young Reviewers Programme’ giving local teenagers aged 12-18 the chance to watch a show for free, and develop their reviewing skills.
Our first session was back in May during the run of Sucker Punch at the Key Theatre. We were joined by nine young people between the ages of 14 and 17.
Comments about the show included:
“I enjoyed it and thought that the actors were really good.”
“The actors were very expressive – the political comments gave it a degree of realism that are relatable.”
“I liked that it shone a light on racism in the black community.”
“I really like the relationships between characters and how they rise and fall.”
We also asked our young reviewers to consider all elements of the play including the lighting, costume and set design and how these features impacted the story. Here’s what some of them said:
“Boxing ring in middle of stage as the centre of attention.”
“Lots of light and smoke – very dramatic.”
“Costumes on theme – I like all the different sports stuff they wear.”
“The lighting was good, it added good touches to the scenes making it look interesting.”
“The set is incredible, I love that the boxing ring is centralised.”
“I love the use of multiple colours, especially the reds, purples and blues. They all gave a really impactful effect.”
We even challenged them to think critically, and tell us what they thought could be improved – this isn’t an easy thing to do, and our young reviewers came up with some great suggestions:
“You should add some more audience interaction.”
“Adult jokes that I personally didn’t fully understand.”
“Some adult jokes weren’t understandable, nor the historical context (although could get it from guessing)”
We’d like to say a big thank you to our young people for their wonderful work!
If you’re interested in becoming a young reviewer get in touch with Talent and Participation Manager, George on George.Barnett@landmarktheatres.co.uk.