The March (2019)
“Can we ring the bells backwards? Can we unlearn the arts that pretend to civilise, and then burn the world? There is a march of Science; but who shall beat the drums for its retreat?” – Charles Lamb, 1775 – 1838
The year is 1914. Europe is on the brink of catastrophic war, with tensions and military spending escalating. Yet, in a small chemical laboratory in rural Scotland, Sir James Irvine continues his work, as of yet unknowing of the impact he will have on the years to come. But as students begin to be pulled away to fight and the war creeps ever closer to his doorstep, a sudden visit from an old colleague – now working at the War Office – pulls him into a conflict he vowed to steer clear of. Saving millions of lives. And ending millions too.
In collaboration with The Barron Theatre, The March was a site-specific history play taking place in the James Irvine chemical laboratory. Devised with a small team, the play explored Sir James Irvine’s life and legacy, and how scientific advances, no matter their intention, can be used and abused by anyone seeking power.
The March was given a one-off performance in 2019, and is available for touring.