Teechers

Synopsis

Follows the experiences of the new drama teacher at Whitewall School, Mr Nixon, who is encountering rivalry, cynicism and intimidation - and that's just in the staff room... Meet all the school personalities from the school bully to the eccentric head teacher, and from the sexy games mistress to the grouchy caretaker who, as anyone at school knows, is the real power behind the throne. Sexual encounters, an explosive Christmas party, three students inspired by drama, and the system in which all this operates, are exposed in the piece, which the author, once teacher at a secondary school himself, describes as ...a comedy that illustrates many anxieties in education today. Comedies must primarily be funny; here is a comedy, I think, which is deadly serious This play contains strong language and adult themes, and is not recommended for children or the easily offended.

Our Review:

Ron Simpson - 19 October 2010

Several of John Godber's earlier plays present a vivid comic snapshot of a particular activity or occupation via a small cast changing roles rapidly in frequently inspired ensemble playing.  When I first saw Teechers in 1987, it seemed an inventive and insightful example of the genre, one that struck pupils and teachers in our school party as reflecting our shared predicament with accuracy and humour.

Sadly, little of that feeling remains. The main reason is that schools have changed and Godber’s updates have pitched the play not into the present, but into a historical no man’s land. The references to targets, for instance, do not sit well with the aimlessness of a school which clearly predates the gentrification that has now overtaken our education system. The play also now seems unaccountably preachy, with the Drama teacher as redemptive force.

The production, too, lacks the strength of John Godber’s best ensemble tours d...