JP Newsletter Mar 2018 Landscape

Volume 23 Issue 1 March 2018
Rough Justice
26th November to 1st December 2018
James Highwood, a television commentator who hosts a widely-watched programme
called British Justice? is on trial for the murder of his severely disabled child. Despite
pleas from his solicitor, Jeremy Ackroyd, he insists on conducting his own defence,
admitting responsibility but pleading manslaughter. His arguments fuel conflict with the
prosecutor, Margaret Casely QC, a well-known Catholic and pro-lifer, and his claims that
the jury alone is responsible for the verdict create further conflict with the Judge.
There are 8 speaking parts, 5 male and 3 female, or 4 male and 4 female, which
comprise the defendant, his wife, his solicitor, the Judge, the prosecutor, and 3 smaller
parts for witnesses. There is also a non-speaking part of court usher. Parts offer a huge
opportunity for emotional range and control as some scenes are highly emotionally
charged.
The action in this gripping court room drama moves between the courtroom and prison
cell. Philip McCloy has already been working hard on the set design, together with
Hugh Epsom. Creating a courtroom that seamlessly transforms into a cell and back
again, is a key challenge that they have both got their teeth into.
In a break with the tradition of recent years, the 2018 autumn production will be in the
Jávea Players Studio. It will be staged with the audience seated on 3 sides, including the
stage, and the acting area in the middle of the floor, similar to our hugely successful 2017 Spring production of Sandcastles.
A read through of the play is on Sunday 18th March 2018 followed by lunch. Auditions will be in the week beginning 22 April.
I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible then.
Lindsay Johnson
lindsay49johnson@yahoo.co.uk
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