Twenty-first century 'Bedward' arrives

Local theatregoers will enjoy an exciting, new experience starting on Friday when Louis Marriott's Bedward brings an interesting twist to stage production under Yvonne Brewster's avante-garde direction.

The production will have its first public showing with a students' preview on Friday at 7:30 p.m., followed by the premiere performance on Saturday at the same time. The mount takes place at the Karl Hendrickson Auditorium at Jamaica College.

Brewster, an internationally acclaimed Jamaican director, has opted for an open stage presentation with a two-level stage, designed and executed by Ron Steger. The stage juts out into the audience, placing patrons, on three sides of the action.

An added treat comes the way of those patrons as a segment of the stage will revolve.

The cast comprises Alwyn Scott in the role of 'Bedward', Barbara McCalla, Winston 'Bello' Bell, Hugh Douse, Jean-Paul Menou, Grace McDonald, Maurice Bryan, Michael Forrest, Renee Rattray, Christine Powell, Damion Campbell, Tomekha McCarthy, Teddy Price and Trevor Fearon.

The musical director is Noel Dexter, movement consultant Maria Smith, and lighting designer Nadia Roxburgh. The stage manager is Alvin Campbell and assistant stage manager Pamella M. Bennett.

Bedward will play for three weekends only, on Fridays at 7:30 p.m, and Saturdays and Sundays at 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at RJR, at The Jamaica Pegasus, and at the door.

The production is sponsored by the RJR Communications Group, The Gleaner Company Ltd, Chaser's Café and Ultra Protection.