It is becoming most frustrating; just when it looks like we are finally in a position to move forwards with rehearsals, we are dealt another blow. We had, at last, managed to recruit enough people to fill all the roles, with Kaua, our new Brazilian member, who responded to our plea fort actors, has now withdrawn after attending just pone performance. Up one rung, only to slither back down.
This blow comes on top of Cristina, our Venezuelan, who has been a stalwart throughout Snakes and ladders, receiving some bad news, with the death of her mother. Devastating for her, of course, and far more important than our few troubles. But it does mean her indefinite enforced absence, and is another obstacle.
On the other hand, some aspects are looking up. WeRESTART, the charity that is hosting and supporting us, are proving a huge help. Not only in supplying us with a rehearsal venue – though that is quite a help – but by sending out appeals for actors, and by providing other back-up. We have a video artist now attending some rehearsals, in order to record the process; I can only pray that Yehia does not become disillusioned by our constant struggle, and abandon us for more interesting subject matter.
WeRESTARTis also looking out for funding, so that we can buy props. In particular, we now think we have an idea about how to construct the boat that carries the migrants across the channel, which is to use a number of step ladders, which we will tie together using cotton snakes, combining the two images of the title, but also suggesting the haphazard nature of the transport.
For the time being at least, the cast seems committed and positive, so I hope we can weather this storm, and get the show moving forward. If anything, the ones who are the worst affected are myself, and even more so, Hamed; he has a lot invested in the success of this production.
