Frenetic, madcap and ultimately heartwarming
Down to Chance is the true story of local radio reporter Genie Chance who courageously kept broadcasting in the aftermath of the 1964 Alaskan earthquake, the strongest recorded in North America and the second strongest in the world ever.
Following a sold out Edinburgh run, London audiences have chances to see the show at South Norwood’s Stanley Arts Centre on 9 October, Twickenham Exchange (10 October) and artsdepot on 24 October as part of an extensive tour of the southeast of England.
This incredible, frenetic, madcap and ultimately heartwarming and uplifting show is a brilliant evocation of the golden age of radio and the power of local/regional media to really make a difference in the community – in this case to literally save peoples lives! It’s an immersive experience using carefully resourced authentic period props to heighten the feel of the period and at times uses real 1960s radios for the sound.
The two performers, Ellie Jay Cooper (who wrote the play) and Robert Merriam take multiple roles, playing almost 30 characters who all find themselves at the centre of a remarkable relief effort.
Directed by Caleb Barron, Down to Chance is a true immersive experience with carefully sourced vintage props and costumes that bring Genie and the sixties setting to life. The immersive effect is heightened by Nathan May’s sound design which evocatively evokes the earthquake experience and at times comes from authentic 1960s radios.
Ellie Jay Cooper said ‘’The earthquake and especially Genie Chance’s calm and measured broadcasting has largely been forgotten. At a time when technology is so often seen as increasing isolation and division, this story feels more important than ever: a reminder that technology can bring us together and make us feel less alone’.
Director Caleb Barron added ‘Genie’s story of hope, courage and strength in the face of adversity is an inspiring one. The show gives an insight too into the whole community that came together around Genie to save countless lives in a crisis. I hope audiences come away reminded of the power of community.’
9 October, 7.30pm
Stanley Arts Centre, 12 South Norwood Hill, London SE25 6AB
Tickets £18 stanleyarts.org
10 October, 7.30pm
The Exchange, 75 London Road, Twickenham TW1 1BE
Ticket £13-£16 www.exchangetwickenham.co.uk16 £16
24 October, 7.30pm
