On first inspection of the text I was quite excited to be working with such a dynamic and interesting text. It contains many scene was great dramatic potential along with plenty of opportunity for ensemble and physical theatre work. All the characters are very diverse and complex which is appealing to me as an actor. The overall plot is compelling, I don't believe that there is a single dull moment. There a jumps in time and location which means staging it we will need to take into consideration the audience's comprehension of the main action without it getting clouded.
Personally I feel like this may be a huge risk to take. When blocking and choreographing the scenes we may run into several obstacles. For example, a couple of scenes take place underwater. This may is going to be quite a challenge as obviously we can't flood Stanley Hall! We would have to consider the use of props e.g. billowing blue cloths to simulate waves or using blue lighting and utilizing watery sound effects. Another problem we may face will be the casting. They're are a lot of scenes dedicated between the interaction between Mau and Daphne. If we cast a single pair as the main duo then some of the cast may end up with people having tonnes of sections to learn and some people with next to nothing. I propose we split up the main characters based on the character development and specific points in the plot when they've gone through and emotional or physical metamorphosis. For example in one scene Mau says "You look different, Daphne" means she's either change clothes or looks older which would be an optimum time for a change. Also when Mau becomes chief he starts wearing "Trouser Man clothes" this could indicate a costume change as well as a change in actor.
There are numerous amount of songs in the text. I think this could be a good chance to try some choral singing like we did in out little people's day project except we would have a clear rhythm and maybe even accompanying music. Because most of the action takes place on an unspecified polynesian/mediterranean/caribbean so we can take inspiration from any of these cultures. We can do this by using authentic music, or by adopting there traditional costumes or masks. We could even base some of our movement work. For example in most Island cultures they have tribal dances, any sticky or boring transitions can be livened up with tribal style physical theatre dance.
In conclusion "Nation" by Terry Pratchett adapted by Mark Ravenhill is a perfect piece for out final performance, Sure there may be a few kinks we need to iron out but that It'll all be done in the devising process.
