Hannah Khalil's 'Treasure Island' Reimagines Classic with Female Pirates and Diverse Crew

December 22, 2024
Hannah Khalil's 'Treasure Island' Reimagines Classic with Female Pirates and Diverse Crew
  • Annie-Lunnette Deakin-Foster directs dynamic movement across a tight circular stage, enhancing the visual appeal without feeling cramped.

  • The set design by Anett Black and Neil Irish features a treasure chest that transforms into the ship Hispaniola, with a gold metallic floor symbolizing buried treasure.

  • Khalil's script is infused with humor, tension, and music, featuring sea shanties set to synthesizer sounds and reggae beats, creating an engaging and vibrant theatrical experience.

  • Playwright Hannah Khalil reimagines Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale of pirates and treasure, weaving in the narratives of 19th-century female sailors.

  • The story begins with the discovery of Flint's treasure map, setting off an adventurous expedition with a diverse crew, including the infamous Long John Silver and two female sailors plotting a mutiny.

  • The inclusion of historical figures like female pirates Anne Bonny and Mary Read enriches the narrative, adding depth and emotional resonance to the production.

  • The narrative unfolds as a memory from Jim Hawkins, triggered by the death of an old shipmate of Captain Flint at his mother's inn.

  • A Young Company of actors aged 18 to 25 delivers impressive and mature performances, skillfully directed by Natasha Rickman.

  • Kit Riou portrays the younger Jim Hawkins with boyish bravery, while Alex Bousfield effectively captures the brooding nature of the older Jim.

  • Long John Silver, played by Angus Alderson, is characterized by understated charisma, complemented by Taz Rahman’s comedic voice work for his parrot.

Summary based on 1 source


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