BILLY

Multicultural (French-Italian-English) collaboratory project.

 Written by Pete Talman and directed by Chiara Virgilio.

Billy is a two-hander play asking the question: how can we protect children from too much online material... for adults?

This piece explores the impact of negative events on young children's and teenagers’ mental health, examining contemporary themes such as discrimination, war, and global warming from the point of view of a child with SEN. 

Research findings of the House of Commons Science and Technology Committee and Ofcom's Children and Parents have highlighted the need for productions that delve into the far-reaching consequences of digital neglect to promote and provoke change. 

Our aim for "Billy" is to challenge adult audiences to reconsider their role in creating a world where children can thrive both online and offline.

Trailer

(Paris, May 2024)

 "Billy" embraces the concept of tragicomedy, deftly balancing moments of levity and laughter with instances of profound tragedy.

It is a dynamic piece of theatre consisting of an eclectic mix of scenes, reflecting the non-linear thought process of a young boy. 
Two actors multirole in the non-chronological storyline, interpreting both fantastical and realistic characters (including God, a puddle, a teddy bear and the two parents). The two performers share the title role, using physical theatre, mime and movement to create a world that is delicate and both funny and harrowing. 

With Billy, the aim is to create a performance that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. 

Embracing minimalism—eschewing traditional set, props, and costumes—provides us with boundless creative freedom. This approach enables seamless transitions between the fantastical and the realistic, mirroring Billy's own fluid perceptions. It harkens back to a time of childhood innocence, where 'imaginary friends,' 'imaginary weapons,' and 'imaginary stories' reigned supreme. 
Through this juxtaposition of imagination and reality, 'Billy' emerges as a compelling celebration of naivete, and a cry for help in times of crisis.

Cast & Creatives


(20-min R&D)

Cast

Billy / Wes / Serial Killer - Eliot Vincent

Billy / Donna / God - Selena Bijlenga-Kelmachter



Creatives
Directed by Chiara Virgilio

Written by Pete Talman

Created with the creative contributions of Kiren Virdee & Jonny Peyton-Hill

 

Multicultural collaborative co-production (Italy, France, England).


Thanks to the support of La Maison Maol, Paris and Canole Theatre, Monpazier.