8 July 2025: THE BENCH – A dramatic 1-act play performed by a very talented Guernsey teenage cast
Bullying happens everywhere – at school, at work and at home, and at all levels of age and society – and its long-term effects on the victims can be absolutely devastating, sometimes even deadly.
On Tuesday 8 July – at the invitation of the Alderney Theatre Group, who had watched the play THE BENCH during the one-act play festival in Guernsey in May – four Guernsey teenage students performed their award-winning drama in Alderney’s Island Hall.
Directed by 14-year old Abi Dowinton and written by her mother Lyndsey Dowinton – THE BENCH is based on personal experience and is about a teenage schoolgirl Catherine (played by 13-year old Sophie Baker) who endures a year of extortion and escalating victimisation at the hands of a fellow pupil Melanie (played by 15-year old Pippa Smith). It concludes with a shocking message of Guilt (delivered by 12-year old Kiara Topley).
The play takes us through the four seasons of the year, demonstrating the impact relentless bullying can have as pressure on the teenager builds. Emotions rising, Catherine’s secrets are kept, leaving her feeling utterly helpless. The consequences are truly devastating , as Melanie realises only too late.
Explaining the reasons for directing this play, Abi Dowinton said: “I wanted to share with you THE BENCH. It is something immensely close to my heart, personal to me, which made it all the more special for me. My drive to put on this play is not only about the bullying that I have experienced, but also as a shout out for the many children who have gone through, and do go through this on a daily basis, wanting them to know that they are not alone”.
Although only lasting for 25 minutes, THE BENCH was an absolute eye-opener, making a big impact on the audience and leaving some of the adults close to tears.
The Alderney performance was sponsored by the Alderney Theatre Group who contributed towards the travel expenses of the young thespians and their production team who had chartered a boat for a daytrip to Alderney and returned to Guernsey immediately after their performance. Donations were also made by members of the audience who were deeply impressed. ENDS
To view, download or share photos and video clips taken during the Alderney performance, please click here