Language Archive by Julia Cho (27-28 Jun 2014)

Poster

Winner of the 2009 Susan Smith Blackburn Prize.

"George is a professor of linguistics; dedicating his life to preserving dead and dying languages in the Language Archive.  The problem is that for all his languages George can’t find the words to tell his wife Mary how much he loves her and stop her leaving him, whilst his assistant Emma can’t find a way to tell George how she feels about him.  To make matters worse the last two speakers of the dying language Elloway have fallen out on their journey to the archive and are having an argument – and consequently can only speak in English - “the language of anger” - as their own language “is too sacred for this kind of angry talk”.

In a subtle blend of comedy and pathos the Language Archive explores the limitations of language and the enduring nature of love, the human spirit …..and bread

What They Said
Another superb evening from St. Michael's Players .
"The Language Archive " was thought - provoking , poignant , funny and completely engaging . Brilliantly staged .
Everyone in the group is so friendly and welcoming !! Lorna D

"you did a terrific job! It was refreshing to have a new play; it was very clever of you to find it. And you got lovely, sensitive and rounded performances from your cast" Cecilia C

"You were all fantastic, really really brilliant.  I am a fan!" Anna K

"Great show - thanks guys. The set was particularly wonderful - and the sound!" Robin E

"Last night I found myself in leafy Chiswick at the UK Premier of a play by Julia Cho “The Language Archive”. What a treat! Skilfully directed by Olivia Keetch – a first for her – and convincingly performed by the St Michael’s Players, this play has depth, interest and comedy and deserves to go further" Charles S

Programme
programme_language_archive.pdf
File Size: 684 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

Pictures

Link to photos by Anna Kunst 

Cast

George                                                                  Alastair Dewar
Mary                                                                    Cressida Strauss
Emma                                                                        Helen Doyle
Alta                                                                        Bryony Wilman
Resten                                                                      David Landau
Language Instructor/Train Conductor                Madeleine Hazard
Mr Baker/Passerby/Elderly Gentleman          David Patrick Stucky

Crew

Director                                                                  Olivia Keetch
Technical advisor                                                      Marc Pearce
Recordings                                                                Andy Murray
Lighting and Sound Operators                                          Jo Harry
                                                                                Louisa Barrett
Set                                                               Emma McMillan Hind
                                                                             Elizabeth Ollier
Costumes                                                                     by the cast
Business Manager                                                      Chris Hulatt
Front of House           Members & Friends of St Michael's Players