Inclusive theatre group finds inventive way to bring stage show to big screen

The cast of Broken Silence production 'Equilibrium' as seen on their green screen set — *The cast of Broken Silence production ‘Equilibrium’ as seen on their green screen set*

An Edmonton-based drama group that produces accessible performances for disabled actors is premiering a unique show using green-screen technology.

Broken Silence, which is part of Face Front Inclusive Theatre, is launching its long-awaited production Equilibrium at Odeon Luxe Lee Valley on Thursday, 30th June. The story takes place on the fictional island of Hanalei and the surrounding waters, with the film focusing on how the world on land and the world below the sea must live in harmony for the natural equilibrium to be restored.

Originally conceptualised as a theatre production, the prolonged impact of the pandemic meant that it could not be performed as originally planned. Instead, Face Front built a full-size professional green screen studio at its Edmonton premises to turn the stage show into a film.

Broken Silence is run by directors Jon French and Angie Wallis at Park Avenue Disability Resource Centre in Bush Hill Park. The group is made up of more than 25 adults with sensory and mobility impairments, mental health issues and learning disabilities. Jon said: “The hard work, imaginative use of technology, incredible patience, enormous talent, and desire to make something brilliant in an unprecedented and challenging environment, was inspiring.”

Maksym Stasiuk, an artist based in Ukraine, provided background illustrations for the show. Since the war there began, Maksym’s family fled to Italy, while he has stayed in Smila in the centre of Ukraine and is housing a family who have fled from Kyiv. As part of the launch of Equilibrium, Face Front is raising funds to help Maksym and his family be reunited.

Broken Silence meets every Wednesday from 1-3pm at Park Avenue Resource Centre, Bush Hill Park, Enfield EN1 2HL. For more information and to buy tickets to the launch event for Equilibrium:
Call 020 8350 3461
Email [email protected]
Visit facefront.org/act-the-part/broken-silence

For more information about Face Front Inclusive Theatre:
Visit facefront.org

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