The world of theatre is about to get a whole lot more interesting with the return of the acclaimed theatre company, Curious Directive. After a six-year hiatus, they are embarking on their first national tour with a brand new play, Black Sheep. This highly anticipated production is an intimate and deeply moving portrait of rural life, land, and legacy, set against the stunning backdrop of a windswept coastal farm in Norfolk. As the curtains open in Norwich from October 14th to 18th, audiences will be transported to a world of rugged beauty, where the rhythms of farm life meet the harsh realities of environmental upheaval and the passing of time.
As the tour makes its way to Salford, Bury St Edmunds, London, and Ipswich, with a special London press night at Shoreditch Town Hall on October 24th, theatre-goers will be treated to a rich and nuanced exploration of the human condition. Black Sheep is a play that delves deep into the complexities of love, grief, inheritance, and belonging, set against the backdrop of a family’s struggle to come to terms with the end of their three-generation tenancy. With its unique blend of stunning visuals, evocative sound design, and powerful performances, this production promises to be an unforgettable experience. At the helm of this creative journey is Founder and Artistic Director, Jack Lowe, who brings his own personal connection to the story, having grown up in rural Norfolk next to a tenant farmer.
The creative team behind Black Sheep is a veritable who’s who of talented individuals, each bringing their own unique perspective and expertise to the production. With design by Linbury Prize winner Zoë Hurwitz, sound design by Irish Times Award-winner Helen Atkinson, lighting by Alex Fernandes, video by Ellie Thompson, and composition by Theo Whitworth, this production is a true collaborative effort. The cast, which includes long-time collaborators Amanda Hadingue and Sophie Steer, is equally impressive, with further casting announcements expected to generate even more excitement among theatre fans. As Jack Lowe explains, “Having grown up in rural Norfolk, next to a tenant farmer, Black Sheep does feel like my most personal work to date.” This personal connection is evident in every aspect of the production, from the meticulous research to the authentic portrayal of rural life.
One of the standout aspects of Black Sheep is its commitment to authenticity. The play was devised in collaboration with Norfolk farmers, ensuring that the story is rooted in the real experiences of those who know rural life best. This attention to detail extends to the cast, which includes two working farmers who bring a unique perspective to the production. As Jack Lowe notes, “The acting company has two working farmers which has also brought a special provenance to the work.” This dedication to authenticity is evident in every aspect of the play, from the characters’ struggles with food security and the climate emergency to the nuanced exploration of the coded language of rural life. By giving an authentic voice to these themes, Black Sheep offers a powerful and timely commentary on the state of our world.
As the tour gets underway, audiences can expect a truly immersive experience that will leave them thoughtful and moved. With a running time of 2 hours and 15 minutes, including an interval, Black Sheep is a production that will linger long after the curtains close. The play’s exploration of universal themes, combined with its unique setting and authentic portrayal of rural life, makes it a must-see for anyone interested in theatre, rural issues, or simply great storytelling. As Jack Lowe so eloquently puts it, “Farmers are often misunderstood, and Black Sheep gives an authentic voice to themes of food security, the climate emergency and the embedded, coded language of rural life.” By shining a light on these important issues, Black Sheep is not just a play – it’s a powerful call to action.
As the national tour of Black Sheep gets underway, theatre fans across the UK are in for a real treat. With its stunning visuals, powerful performances, and thought-provoking themes, this production is set to leave a lasting impression on all who see it. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Curious Directive or just discovering their work, Black Sheep is a play that will resonate with anyone who has ever grappled with the complexities of love, grief, inheritance, and belonging. So mark your calendars, book your tickets, and get ready to experience the magic of Black Sheep. With its unique blend of intimate storytelling, stunning visuals, and powerful performances, this production is an unmissable event that will stay with you long after the curtains close. Listings and ticket information can be found online, so don’t miss your chance to be a part of this unforgettable theatrical experience.
