producer

Shey’s brother William died in prison, and no-one will tell her the truth about how. Aided by the ancient spirits of revenge, the terrifying Furies, she takes on the people and the systems responsible for her brother’s death. As she seeks justice, she must decide how far up the chain of command guilt lies, and how to challenge power to end a cycle of violence.

Masters of interactive theatre, Upstart Theatre present a modern-day reimagining of the ancient Greek tragedy, The Oresteia. The audience are invited to help determine where the line is between justice and revenge, in this thrilling new show made with a Citizen Chorus featuring co-creators and performers from the REP’s Adult Drama Company, Young REP members, and others from across Birmingham and beyond.

Beneath the City is one part of The Chorus Project, an international collaboration with theatre companies across Europe from Germany, Austria and North Macedonia. This production is proudly made in Birmingham.

Co-Funded by the Creative Europe Programme of the European Union and Unity Theatre Trust.

Beneath the City premiered at Birmingham REP from Thursday 16th to Saturday 18th January 2020. The show is produced by Upstart Theatre.

Beneath the City aims to tour to our partner venues in 2021.

CAST
Shey Clarke: Nicole Sawyerr
Prison Officer / Vice President / Politician: Rochi Rampal
Citizen Chorus: Despina Kourla, Edwina Turner, Gordon Elcock, John Flynn, Melanie Distin, Peter Harrison, Eddie Nelson, Eleanor Lawson, Jan Lane, Kerry Frater, Michelle Rafferty, Sharon Walcott, Denise Norton, Edward Beidas, Emma Bangham, Jane Winder, Linda Hisgett, Niamh Elcock & Toqueer Quyyam.

CREATIVE TEAM
Director: Tom Mansfield
Dramaturg: Zodwa Nyoni
Designer: Astrid Behrens
Lighting Designer: Sherry Coenen
Sound Designer: Duncan Grimley
Associate Designer: Claire Browne
Stage Manager: Emily Davies
Lighting Programmer: Alex Boucher
Technical Support: Clive Meldrum, Dan Hoole & Dee Smith
Producer: Hannah Tookey
Executive Producer: Emma Sampson

Photography by Ali Wright.