Review: 2065, Colchester Arts Centre

The year is 2065 and the country is ruled by an oppressive regime made up of
powerful corporations. Music is banned and as for entertainment? Forget it. No,
this isn’t a glimpse into our future – at least hopefully it isn’t
– but it’s the premise of 2065, Frozen Light’s latest production aimed at
theatregoers with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD).
An original concept by Lucy Garland and Amber Onat Gregory, 2065 follows
three people as they rebel against the regime and keep music alive in their
hideaway, certain that one day things will change for the better. Over the
course of an hour the trio introduce themselves and their bunker (with a futuristic
set design courtesy of Kat Heath) and take the audience through the story, with
fun, music and interaction along the way.
What makes 2065 so special is that it’s a real sensory experience, with the
actors using music, lighting, food and drink and even bubbles to stimulate the
senses. After each scene the three actors (Lil Davis, Matt Heslop and Iona
Johnson) engage with members of the audience (obeying Covid-19 safety
protocols) and invite them to take part in sensory activities such as touching
objects and tasting food and drink. It’s clear that a lot of thought has gone
into the show and Director Kate O’Connor has ensured this is a well-paced
production, with time for audience members to fully engage with the show. Audience
participation isn’t compulsory and the actors quickly move on if you’d rather
just sit back and watch the show. In fact everything about 2065 is incredibly
relaxed, a safe space for all to enjoy. The cast do everything possible to put
audience members at ease, from greeting them before they enter the theatre, to
using sign language throughout the show to communicate. It really is a relaxed
performance and anything goes – when one young woman wanted to carry on
dancing during my performance, the cast were only too happy to let her, and completely
heart to watch.
2065 in itself is enjoyable and a real feast for the senses as the audience
touch, see, feel and taste, but the real highlight is watching a show that’s a
timely reminder that theatre can be – and should be – inclusive for everyone. A
warm and engaging production from start to finish, 2065 is an utter joy and
incredibly humbling to watch, and the cast and creative team should be commended
for this beautiful show.
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