issues.txt

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http://www.nightnews.net/fringe2007.htm#issue
Title: Darkness Within - Outside In Theatre
5 silver bats

15 08 07 - There are well trodden but still poignant and powerful 
narratives in this play by Tim Scott featuring a young talented cast
of age 15 plus young actors. Darkness Within has been nominated for
the Big Issue and Amnesty award for 'Freedom of Expression.' Sadly
there were only four other people to share this dark gem with when
I saw this 12.30pm show. Nevertheless there were some excellent 
performances as the cast took turns, literally under the spotlight,
to portray young lives gone tragically wrong or that never had a 
chance. With a good use of ambient music, some physical theatre, 
the spotlight focuses full attention on the characters on a sparse 
stage set. A young girl trapped in a life of prostitution from 16, 
an abused boy sectioned or on the streets, another 15 year old 
street teen led into drug culture by his peer group. A consumer
led society too easily exploits, represses and otherwise destroys
its most vulnerable members when they are in greatest need for help
and support turning them into commodities and playthings. The story
raises some interesting questions about the distance of the
'professionals' that inhabit the 'offender' rehabilitation system
intended to help these youngsters. Are they as damaged as their 
young clients? A captivating and compelling production reminding us 
about how little choice or good fortune exists at the bottom, 
the limits of personal responsibility in this context and how much
or how little power we have, to improve our lot.

By John Vassallo