Theatre News

Making Kontact at the Nuffield

The Nuffield Youth Theatre present a groundbreaking theatrical experience in The Nuffield Studio from 11 – 15 January…

Inspired by the work of German conceptualist Hannah Herzig, Kontakt is a series of one-to-one performances with twenty young people aged 12 – 24. Created and developed by Phillip Mackenzie for The Sherman Cymru Youth Theatre and directed by Tim Ford, each sits at a table with a single light bulb above and invites an audience member to take the seat opposite for a unique encounter. Each discussion will last no longer than eight minutes, but each one will be filled with something different…a story…a debate…questions and advice – or maybe something else…

Following incredible success at The Sherman Theatre in Cardiff, and The Birmingham Rep, this unique performance challenges the stereotype that teenagers are unable to communicate. The Nuffield Theatre, Southampton invites you to come and engage in the performance – or simply spectate, and watch these fascinating discussions play out!

Creator Phillip Mackenzie comments: “The central idea behind the performance is getting different generations to have contact with one another in a safe and comfortable environment. How often does an adult sit across from a table with a teenager and have a meaningful interaction or conversation? It’s a fascinating project for both the young people and the audience – the cast are not playing characters, there is no script and each performance is very different. It really stretches the boundaries of what theatre is and could be in an ever-changing world.”