Note on Performance
Scorch was inspired by recent UK cases.
This is an invitation to distance the audience gently from a literal performance of a character by incorporating metaphor into the production. If clothing is used, try to avoid a literal association with the concept of drag. Minimal set and props are advised. Throughout, consider casting members of the audience as players in Kes’s journey. Engage and make eye contact with them. Stage directions are for guidance but open to interpretation.
The performance leaves room for interpretation. Some see Scorch as dealing with LGBTQIA concerns, some with trans, some with a general duty of care towards young people, and this may be reflected in casting. The dissensus is deliberate.
Scorch was developed with support from Anchor and Buoys NI. In the original production the voices of local young people from these groups were incorporated on pages 34–5.
Huge thanks to Stef O’Driscoll, Amy Conroy, Naomhán O’Connor, all those at Anchor and Buoy, Suzanne Bell,
Ellie Kendrick and Amy McAllister.