It’s nearly time for the world premiere of Penetration by Carolyn Lloyd-Davies which runs at The Cockpit Theatre from 22 September to 9 October 2021. My Theatre Mates was invited behind the scenes to take a look at the company in rehearsals for this provocative new play which deals with the issue of consent.
A sensitive exploration of real-life rape accusations and acquittals, Penetration is inspired by seven true stories from 2014 to 2019.
When Sean is accused of rape by Anna, their worlds are in turmoil. Sean’s mother Felicity, a lifelong feminist, knows women don’t lie about rape just as surely as she knows her son is innocent. ‘Innocent until proved guilty’ is ripped up as Sean is exposed in the press, publicly abused and barred from his university, his friends and his future.
Penetration highlights the agony of lives in limbo, waiting for a verdict. But will resolution ever come? Directed by David Trevaskis, audiences are confronted with intimate and intricate reciprocal implications of consent, and the devastating consequences of blurring sexual boundaries.
Calum Wragg-Smith and Georgina Armfield will star as Sean and Anna and they are joined by Louise Bangay, Steve Chusak and Amantha Edmead.
Running at one hour and 30 minutes plus interval, Penetration by Carolyn Lloyd-Davies runs at The Cockpit, Gateforth Street, Marylebone, London NW8 8EH from Wednesday 22 September to Saturday 9 October 2021 (Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm; Matinee performances on Thursday 23 September and Saturday 2 October at 2.30pm). Tickets are available priced £16 (£14) and age guidance is 16-plus (sexual content, swearing and reference to rape). The production is presented by Living the Drama.