Magic of Storytelling in Book of Everything
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- Category: News & Events
- Published on Wednesday, 25 July 2012 17:19
This August, St Stephen's School Duncraig brings The Book of Everything to the stage.
Adapted from the Guus Kuijer children’s novel by Richard Tulloch, the play centres on nine-year-old Thomas who makes a record of everything he sees and experiences in the real and spiritual world.
It’s described as a story about courage and self-belief, told with “artless simplicity”, and explores the themes of domestic violence, religious tolerance and faith, the strengths and frailties of people, cowardice and courage and the power of love.
Ms Amanda crewes, play director and drama teacher believes The Book of Everything is an important play that addresses deeply significant issues affecting families and the church today.
“It’s a moving story about a special boy's abilities that help him to cope with his unhappy childhood,” she said. “Thomas’ innocent view of things is heartwarming and serves to remind us that children have a very different perspective on things and, as adults, we always need to be mindful of that.
“This is a story that speaks to our souls – it makes us aware and gives us courage to stand up and say no, and more determined to protect the magical world our children live in.
“With the help of strong female role models, even in the face of adversity Thomas manages to hold true to what he believes in and is able to stand strong even though he is terrified and feels like he, as he puts it, ‘swallowed a hippopotamus’.”
Crewes said the play gave a voice to those who are often voiceless. “It gets us talking, which is essential, especially because children have very different perspectives on things and many will be facing these kinds of issues,” she said.
With The Book of Everything, she said wanted to create a magical world of innocence that is vital to the story. “It’s something we have all experienced as children,” Crewes said. “It’s the magic so cleverly balanced with the right amount of truth that makes this such a thought-provoking and ultimately a wonderfully warm, uplifting and poignant story.”
The Book of Everything plays at 7.00pm, August 8, 9, 10 and 11.
Tickets are $15 from www.trybooking.com/27552.
St Stephen’s School’s Duncraig Theatre is at 100 Doveridge Drive, Duncraig.
Pictured below: James Riseborough, Second row L-R: Gillian Mosenthal, Heather Mackay and Adnrew Dunstan
