The First Year review examines a bold but uneven theatrical production that centers Palestinian voices in media coverage of the Gaza genocide. This 90-minute play by British-Romanian collective BÉZNĂ theatre tackles how news outlets cover war when independent foreign journalists are blocked entry. Written and directed by Sînziana Cojocărescu, the production uses satire, song, graphics, and meta theatre to question the framing of facts and stories. While it demonstrates utmost integrity, the drama is beached by its own welter of facts and experimental switches in form.
What Is The First Year About?
The play responds to Israel’s actions in Gaza triggered by Hamas’s attack on 7 October 2023, bringing apocalyptic brutality and death tolls. It asks: How do news outlets cover war in a region where independent foreign journalists are blocked entry? What to make of western press reports compared to livestreamed footage on our phones? The four-strong cast – Maryam Abu Khaled, Sara Masry, Luca Kamleh Chapman, and Sofia – juggle mini lectures, dramatised dialogue, poetic monologues, and meta theatre. The production includes short excerpts from works by playwrights Ahmed Masoud and Hannah Khalil, and anonymous writings.
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Strengths and Weaknesses
The First Year review highlights formal innovation around the presentation of facts and stories. Centering Palestinian voices is a significant strength, offering a polyphony of perspectives often missing in mainstream media. However, the drama is beached by its own welter of facts and its experimental switches in form. The latter leave you stranded, some scenes so elliptical you lose the thread. The cast’s versatility is commendable, but the uneven focus dilutes the impact.
Comparison of Theatrical Elements
| Element | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Satire | Sharp, pointed critique | Sometimes overbearing |
| Song | Emotional resonance | Abrupt tonal shifts |
| Graphics | Visual engagement | Distracting at times |
| Meta theatre | Intellectual depth | Confusing structure |
Key Takeaways
- Centers Palestinian voices with integrity.
- Uses multiple forms but lacks cohesion.
- Questions media framing of the Gaza genocide.
- Features strong performances from the cast.
- Struggles with factual overload and elliptical scenes.
FAQ
What is The First Year about?
The First Year is a 90-minute play by BÉZNĂ theatre that explores media coverage of the Gaza genocide, centering Palestinian voices through satire, song, and meta theatre.
Who wrote and directed The First Year?
Sînziana Cojocărescu wrote and directed the production.
What are the main criticisms of The First Year?
Critics note that the play is uneven, with an overload of facts and experimental form switches that can leave audiences stranded.
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