Hard-hitting play makes big impression
An informative play tackling the issue of alcoholism was performed before Alford pupils yesterday as part of a month-long tour across the North-east.
Written by Press and Journal columnist Nicola Barry and support worker Susanne Kearney, Double Vision focuses on how alcohol has affected the lives of the play's two central characters.
It is currently being brought to life by the Live Wire Theatre Production Company and after performances, pupils are able to put questions to the actors, who remain in character.
The initiative was commissioned by the Grampian Drinkwise committee, part of a national campaign urging individuals to take responsibility for their drinking behaviour.
Peter Comfort, of Alford Academy's guidance team, described yesterday's session at the school as "excellent".
"The kids all came expecting a lecture, but it was far from it," he said.
"It treated them like adults and they appreciated that and responded to that.
"The children were asked to write down questions they would have for the actors. They then sat down in character and answered the questions."
Grampian Drinkwise committee chairwoman Jennie Biggs said with the reported increase in the amount of alcohol being consumed, particularly among young people, there was an increasing need for new ways to educate and inform.
"We are delighted to have the play Double Vision performed in Grampian," she said. "It is an ideal opportunity for local involvement in getting the message across."
The session has proved so popular with the Alford school that consideration is being given to holding further sessions, geared towards the S1/S2 and S3/S4 age groups.
In the meantime, the S5 and S6 pupils will be asked to evaluate the performance and give comments.
Press and Journal - 16 th September 2002