‘It’s great for young people to be performing to such large and diverse audiences.’ – Tanushka Marah
After Romeo and Juliet, their sell-out show at Brighton Festival 2022, Third Space (formerly known as Windmill Young Actors) return with Bakkhai. A Brighton Festival commission, Bakkhai is an ancient Greek tragedy, reimagined as a youthful revolt. The play is staged amidst the scenic South Downs, accompanied by an impressive soundtrack of booming bass and harmonious choir vocals, resulting in a stunning and striking theatrical experience.
The story of Bakkhai centres around the character of Dionysis, a girl who only speaks the truth. The insight she brings sparks political rebellion amongst the disenfranchised people around her. From the chaos that ensues, hope can be found in the society’s young people, who use storytelling and magic to keep everyone alive.
We spoke to Artistic Director Tanuska Marah to find out more.
After last year’s sell-out show, are you looking forward to bringing Bakkhai to Brighton Festival 2023?
We are thrilled to be back at Brighton Festival again. It’s great for young people to be performing to such large and diverse audiences. We are having an immense and joyful journey making this work commissioned by Brighton Festival and we are looking forward to sharing an explosive performance with you!
How would you describe Bakkhai in three words?
Protest. Primitive. Wild.
What do you hope people will take away from Bakkhai after they’ve watched it?
We want our audience to experience something together both up close and in the distance of the hills. A bombastic sense of theatre and rebellion. Topical, political but not preachy.
A homegrown piece, Third Space have collaborated with local companies Ceyda Tanc Dance (also bringing dance show KIZLAR to Brighton Festival this year) and Brighton People's Theatre to bring Bakkhai to Brighton Festival. The production features a cast of over 50 people aged 8-60 years old, including young children from Brighton-based youth group the Crew Club. Bakkhai is suitable for ages 12 and up.