At last month’s Guernsey One-Act Play Festival, THE BENCH – a dramatic play directed by a teenager and performed by a teenage cast – made a big impact on the audience, not least the members of the Alderney Theatre Group who watched the performance.   

Directed by 14-year old Abi Dowinton and written by her mother Lyndsey Dowinton, THE BENCH is a play about a teenage schoolgirl enduring a year of extortion and escalating victimization at the hands of a fellow pupil.

The 25-minute 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, her secrets are kept, leaving her feeling helpless and alone.  The cast features Sophie Baker (age 13), Pippa Smith (age 15) and Kiara Topley (age 12).

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”.

Acutely aware that bullying is happening everywhere , the Alderney Theatre Group members wanted to bring  THE BENCH to Alderney’s youngsters, and their parents and teachers. “We are delighted these very talented teenagers have agreed to stage a special one-off performance here in the Island Hall,” said Chairman Charlotte Newton.

“This  play is an absolute eye-opener! It is suitable for youngsters over the age of 11, their families and teachers – and admission is free.

Doors will open at 5:30 and the 25-minute play will start at 6:00pm, so please get there on time.  There will be no bar – please bring your own refreshments. “ 

The Alderney Theatre Group is contributing with a sponsorship towards travelling expenses: (the young thespians and production team have chartered a boat for a day trip and will return to Guernsey immediately after their performance).   ENDS