A Triumphant Production of The Bubblegum Tree

Truro School’s latest senior production, The Bubblegum Tree, delivered a gripping and heartfelt drama. Under the direction of Ben Oldfield, this ambitious piece, set against the politically charged landscape of 1970s Berlin, was brought vividly and powerfully to life by an exceptional young cast and creative team.

From the opening moments, the ensemble commanded the audience’s attention. The East German Dance Company, led by Celia G as Comrade Petra Friedel, showcased both emotional nuance and technical precision. The Pioneers offered a chilling glimpse into a society shaped by surveillance, ideology, and youthful indoctrination, while the Stasi officers, played with unnerving poise, brought a razor-sharp tension to every scene they entered.

A vibrant shift in tone arrived with the Wessis, whose energy illuminated the freedoms and optimism of West Germany. Their presence created a spirited counterpoint to the austerity of the East, bringing light, humour, and emotional contrast.

The abstract, arresting design by Annie Lucas, with its decayed Heras fencing, projected imagery, and symbolic bubblegum tree, struck the perfect balance between historical realism and metaphor. Lighting designers Dennis Morrell and Hugo Usher-Sparks crafted an atmospheric world of shadow, contrast, and simmering tension. Choreographer Tee J Randall brought fluidity and emotional resonance through movement, exploring the clash between discipline and freedom. The dance sequences became storytelling at its most expressive. Crucial contributions to set construction and scenic painting ensured a production that felt meticulously crafted from every angle.

At its core, The Bubblegum Tree is a story of division, hope, and the resilience of young people navigating a fractured world. This cast embraced that challenge with maturity far beyond their years. Through gripping storytelling, courageous performances, and seamless ensemble work, they honoured playwright Jon Welch’s vision while making it fiercely relevant for today’s audience.

A huge well done to all the Cast and Production Crew for a triumphant production.

Cast List

The “Ossis” (East Germans)
Beate – Ava P

East German Dance Company:
Comrade Petra Friedel – Celia G
Katja – Evie D
Florian – Arlo G
Markus – George K
Jurgen – Freddy Y
Lena – Emily O
Claudia – Aurie R
Marta – Bea H
Monika – Erin D
Julia – Mattie R
Carolin – Bethany C
Ulrike – Louisa L
Thomas – Theo T

Pioneers:
Comrade Hempel – Farrah I-D
Inga – Jasmine B
Rosa – Bella V
Sabine – Kip W
Ute – Chen L

Stasi Officers:
Comrade Weber – Jacob T
Comrade Neubert – Sophia W

The “Wessis” (West Germans)
Henning – Ben M
Tanja – Tilly B
Silke – Stella H
Gabriele – Alice H
Daniele – Lara D
Klaus – Kes M
Steffi – Evie N
Jorg – Olliver G
Karin – Yuqi L

Creative & Production Team
Director – Ben Oldfield
Assistant Director – Hayley Hood
Designer – Annie Lucas
Choreographer – Tee J Randall
Lighting Design – Dennis Morrell, Hugo Usher-Sparks
Sound Design – Jon Welch
Set Construction – Andrew Gill
Scenic Painting – Andrew Gill, Annie Lucas, Tee J Randall, Ben Oldfield
Stage Manager – Lewis Cobb
Technicians – Hugo Usher-Sparks, Jasper L