Frensham Heights School's recent production of Regeneration, based on Pat Barker's acclaimed novel, has been hailed as a triumph. The production, which saw three performances held at the Aldridge Theatre, was praised for its exceptional production values, powerful performances and profound exploration of the psychological impact of war.
Set in 1917, the play transports audiences to Craiglockhart War Hospital, where soldiers grapple with the horrors of the battlefield. The production features iconic figures like Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon, as they undergo treatment under the guidance of the enigmatic psychologist William Rivers.
The production was lauded for its meticulous attention to detail in the costumes, props and set design. The young cast delivered outstanding, mature performances, bringing to life the complex characters and their emotional struggles. The seamless transitions between scenes, aided by impressive lighting and sound design, further enhanced the immersive experience.
The play's exploration of themes such as trauma, mental health and the power of the human spirit has resonated deeply with audiences. Regeneration served as a timely reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding and the courage to speak out against injustice.
The school was founded in 1925 only several years after the main house had itself been used as a hospital during World War 1. Founded by three women in the wake of war, Frensham Heights remains committed to the founding ethos - a school and a community based on mutual respect, tolerance and generosity of spirit.
"When Edith Douglas-Hamilton, Beatrice Ensor and Isabelle King founded Frensham Heights in 1925, they did so in a world which still carried the scars, both physical and psychological, of the horrors of World War I. This production was, quite simply, extraordinary. The performances, the costumes, the set, the soundscape and the production values combined to make this a truly memorable piece. But it was the choice of a play which emphasises the suffering and humanity of those affected by war which, for me, was pure Frenshamian magic and very fitting as we move towards our Centenary. They founded our school in the belief that instilling respect for individuality and humanity, placing precedence of the generosity of the human spirit and by the promotion of pacifism in a world riven by conflict, we might raise generations of young people who might build a better world for the future."
Frensham Heights Head Ben McCarey
Directed by Esalan Gates, a London-based theatre director and an alumnus of Frensham Heights, this production brought professional expertise to the school stage. Gates’ recent productions include the critically acclaimed Maybe I Should Stop?(Lion & Unicorn Theatre, 2024) and The Waiting Room (Camden People’s Theatre, 2024), both of which received five-star reviews. With an impressive portfolio that also includes Scared of Lonely (Golden Goose Theatre, 2024) and Violet’s System (Norwich Theatre Royal, 2023), Gates returned to guide students in this powerful exploration of World War I.
“The dedication of both the cast and backstage crew exemplifies the spirit of Frensham - a beacon of creativity and resilience in challenging times. This production stands as a testament to that spirit, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, we must continue to speak, create, and persevere.”
Esalan Gates, Director
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