Photo supplied.
Tom Keat and Grace Thompson star in this month’s premiere of Who Killed Snow White, a play focussing on current issues such as sexual violence and cyberbullying designed to stimulate dialogue and shift attitudes.
The young leads in the next 4th Line Theatre production relate to the story’s delicate content. In the world premiere of Judith Thompson’s play, Who Killed Snow White? Grace Thompson and Tom Keats play best friends, struggling with a violent act followed by relentless cyberbullying. Grace plays 15-year-old girl named Serena, whose world is shattered after a violent act, which pits young people and neighbours against each other.
The timely production, inspired by the life and death of Nova Scotia teenager Rehtaeh Parsons and B.C. teenager Amanda Todd, the play was Canadian playwright Judith Thompson’s attempt to open up dialogue around critical issues of sexual violence, toxic masculinity and suicide to do her part to initiate a movement of change.
The young lead actors understand where she’s coming from and are happy to move the conversation along. Grace, who is the playwright’s daughter, explains that not only has everyone experienced bullying in some form in their lives, she also believes we have all been the bully at some point. This play is designed to sensitize the audience to the impact of these actions, and get people talking.
Also at the crux of the play is the highly visible issue of consent, examining the cultural stereotypes in our images of masculinity and the masculine roles of victims, perpetrators and allies.
Due to the content, this play is recommended for ages fourteen and older, but Grace believes that younger people will also relate. It’s a good thing, because the play includes actors as young as nine. A detailed discussion guide has been prepared to help parents have thoughtful and supportive discussions with their children regarding topics that may arise from the production. In the end, the play focuses on the strengths of character and family bonds for the main character. Thompson hopes the audience will leave the play with a better understanding of the environment through which their children must navigate every day. It also describes warning signs and suggestions for how to help friends and family members in difficulty, including strategies to avoid compromising situations. Keeping open lines of communication starts with an open mind and attentive listening, skills where there is room for improvement in most of us. KG
