By Esme Holt The Burton Taylor was snug and welcoming as always, but it didn't stay that way for long. The young actors soon brought to life the story of Marky and his best friend Dig who live surrounded by violence and aggression, not only from muggers but also from their peers. The stage was set in a park, spoilt by graffiti and litter, which became the scene of their dilemma; do the friends go around the park to school or do they cut across, risking mugging by the gang of older lads in the playground half way? Some of the group decide to go across and when a phone is stolen it sets into motion a tragic series of events leading to Marky's stabbing. Ultimately, the friends are left to deal with their grief and frustration against a back drop of inaccurate media coverage, which attributes the death to gang violence. Further friction builds within the group as they argue over who is at fault and the controversial decision of whether they should tell the truth about the events leading up to his death. This community production by OUDS and Shell Connections gives the audience an awakening glimpse into the bullying and fear endured by some youngsters and how friendship and respect can survive against all odds. The actors may be very new to this type of production but they all gave strong, promising performances. Mugged ran at the Burton Taylor from 15th - 17th March, but you can still catch them at the Castle Arts Centre in Wellingborough for the regional festival on the 11th April.
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