A new stage production is taking audiences inside the world of a children’s home.
Calls from Castlemar, a reimagined version of Robin Taylor Wright’s Canadian play Home for Boys, is being staged by Laughing Cactus Productions in collaboration with the University of West London.
The play is directed by Sarah Ewen and set in a children’s home in 1996, exploring themes of family, failed institutions and coming of age through the eyes of its young residents.
Ms Ewen said: “I hope Calls from Castlemar is a show you can resonate with in some way, as you peer into this world built in small proximity.
“My directorial vision is brought to life by a dedicated, talented cast and crew.
“Calls from Castlemar houses characters on their journey of acceptance and defiance at a sensitive time in their life.”
Originally developed through workshops in Toronto, Winnipeg and Montreal, the play has been adapted for British audiences.
One character, PJ, has a completely different motivation compared to their Canadian counterpart because the actor is an immigrant to the UK.
The production features a young cast and crew from London.
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It uses intimate staging, period-appropriate music, voiceovers and moments of humour to balance the serious subject matter.
Sound director Charlie Edwards has created original music to transport audiences into the world of Castlemar Children’s Home.
The show will be performed at The Walrus, located at 10 Ship Street.
Performances will take place on May 3 and 4, with all shows held in the Basement Room.
Entry is unticketed and operates on a pay-what-you-can basis, with a suggested donation of £10 at the door.
The production is recommended for audiences aged 14 and older.
It contains some strong language and deals with difficult themes including abuse, though these elements are implied rather than shown.
Fans of shows and books such as Adolescence, Girl Interrupted, Stand by Me, and works by Ken Kesey or Shirley Jackson may find the play especially appealing.
Calls from Castlemar offers a brief but powerful glimpse into youth and the adults who lose sight of them.