The Long Song

Written as a memoir by an elderly woman living in early 19th Century Jamaica, The Long Song tells the tale of a young slave girl through the 1831 Baptist Wars and the final days of slavery.

Adapted from Andrea Levy's award winning novel by Suhayla El-Bushra, former writer in residence at the National Theatre, tells a story of loss, resilience, and dignity in the face of degradation and cruelty. Throughout this disturbing narration is a theme of warmth, vibrance and at times humour, as July tells her powerful story. Looking back on her life we follow the trials, tribulations and survival of July and her odious mistress Caroline. We follow her journey through the final years of slavery and the transition to 'freedom' which took place thereafter.

“An unblinking portrait of dignity amid moral horror" Guardian ****

As Old July tells the changes she witnessed during the abolition of slavery and the subsequent struggles throughout her life to maintain her dignity and independance, her story continues to have strong resonance illustrating how our history underpins much of the racism still prevalent in todays society.

"Chichesters take on Andrea Levys novel refuses to compromise - and the result is phenomenal" - The Telegraph *****

The Long Song is set on Amity, a early 19th Century Jamaican sugar cane plantation. In order to bring the background of the play to life, Mesmer helped develop a design concept to create a "real" sugar cane set that could also function as a projection and lighting surface. This began with a test at Mesmer Studios with director Charlotte Gwinner, designer Frankie Bradshaw and lighting designer Mark Doubleday and included Mesmer sourcing projectors that would be used for this bespoke surface.

Client:
Chichester Festival Theatre

Location:
Chichester Festival Theatre, 2021

Services:
Video & Projection Design
Content Creation

Team:
Video Designer: Dick Straker

Production Credits:
Director: Charlotte Gwinner
Set and Costume Designer: Frankie Bradshaw
Lighting Designer: Mark Doubleday
Sound Designer: Helen Skiera
Composer: Michael Henry

Photos:
© Manuel Harlan