Intimate performance at Camp and Furnace

MADEUP is hearing good things about the first production from Young Everyman Playhouse (YEP),that has launched a new series of events with a site-specific performance in the unusual surrounds of Camp and Furnace (the old A Foundation). YEP, the Everyman and Playhouse’s initiative for 11 to 25-year-olds, is currently performing Intimate, a new piece exploring what war means to young people. Intimate is a devised piece that has been created by YEP's Young Actors with directors Matt Rutter (Big Wow) and Chris Tomlinson. Based on real life stories and research, the production explores young people’s experiences and understanding of war in Afghanistan, whether that be serving in the forces, waiting for a loved on to return or figuring out what a war on the other side of the world actually means. The "immersive theatrical journey" positions audiences at the centre of the action as scenes take place around them and stories are shared -- although audience members could find themselves sat at a table with the cast they will not be expected to interact with them. The unique setting in Camp and Furnace is used to its full extent as the actors lead theatregoers around the building in spaces ranging from intimate rooms to cavernous chambers. Intimate is described as "an insightful and up-close experience", with people able to book for performances where the audience members will either be one person, five people or ten people depending on how they would like to interact with the production. YEP's Young Technicians continue their development with support of Intimate in a production that will include evocative lighting, soundscapes, music and video projection that matches the scale and ambition of the overall production. This spring there will be three further productions by the YEP Young Actors, including You Are Being Watched at Static Gallery, Excuse Me? – a promenade piece around Albert Dock – and Illyria, written by  Bryony Lavery which will be performed in the Playhouse Studio in April. Intimate runs at Camp and Furnace, Greenland Street, until February 26. For tickets and more information, see the website.