After The Act – New Diorama Theatre

On the 18th November 2003, Section 28 Local Government Act 1988 was finally wiped from the statute books.  This Act was established to silence teachers and other educators from discussing same-sex relationships in any form.  A whole generation of children who were lesbian, gay, bi-sexual or trans were ostracised, taunted by their classmates for being ‘different,’ ‘not normal’.

In the anniversary year of its repeal, Breach Theatre are dancing on the grave of this act, which acted like a festering wound, its bacteria growing and infecting society, and in a way, we are still feeling it today. 

From the beginning, Breach hit the ground running with their passionate musical delivery of this extremely well-written piece of theatre.  Taking their storyline from original dialogue, the performers; Tika Mu’tamir, Ellice Stevens, EM Williams and Zachary Willis, include the audience on their journey by using video footage of news items from the 1980’s, as a reminder that this is not fictional, but is a part of British history.  Using the dialogue from real experiences gives this an authentic feel, but don’t think that this is just a history lesson, the writing by Ellice Stevens and Billy Barratt, along with Barratt’s direction, hands us a hugely entertaining and funny play.  Commissioned by New Diorama, this show seeks to remind us that this stain in British history may have been scrubbed, and has the outward appearance of being clean, but it has left a shadow which can still be seen.

Included in the play are activists storming the BBC News (fabulous Sue Lawley mimicry), Margaret Thatcher, lesbian’s abseiling into the House of Lords, but also touching stories from children/teenagers.  These stories were touching as they showed how unsupported these kids were, abandoned by the education system.  It is no coincidence that Stonewall was founded at this time, to fight against this unjust piece of legislation.

Quickly moving between the scenes, the music is punchy, written by Frew and co-produced by Owen Crouch; this added another element to this production, with its rhythmic beat and powerful lyrics.

Having seen ‘It’s True, It’s True, It’s True’ at HOME in Manchester, I know that Breach’s approach to theatre making uses historical detail, and seeks to explore stories from the past, which may still have some relevance today.  Their skill is in weaving together material that is entertaining and powerful; whilst also ensuring that it is historically accurate. 

This play will appeal to anyone wanting to know more about this period in Britain’s history.  You are in for a treat, but for those who did not experience this era, this important history play may shock you.  Yes, it did really happen!  Huge congratulations to Breach Theatre, on making such an important piece of theatre.

‘After The Act’ is on at The New Diorama Theatre until the 1st April 2023.  To book tickets and for further information go to – https://newdiorama.com/whats-on/after-the-act

Reviewer: Caroline Worswick

Reviewed: 10th March 2023

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★