Twelve Angry Men

Drama Weekend is a regular feature of each semester, and fitting the rehearsals and preparation into an already crowded schedule is something of a work of art. All credit therefore must go to the students and staff members who achieve this wizardry on a regular basis. This semester's play was "Twelve Angry Men" (most of the film buffs amongst us will immediately think of Henry Fonda). It's a play of ideas as well as having a compelling plot.

It was a good play well performed. The set was simple and effective, the characters were brought to life by the actors, and the dialogue was clear and well-articulated. Congratulations to all who participated.

You might be interested in the programme notes from the director, drama teacher Ben McKenzie, reproduced below:

While developing my first production here at Woodstock, I went through a lot of doubt. Did I pick the right play, design the right set, or give the right direction? Would the costumes be finished, the paint properly mixed and the lights correctly toned? I even doubted the reasons for doubt. But, such is the nature of any director on the verge of production, not to mention the cast, crew and various supporters along the way. Conveniently enough, however, doubt is what 12 Angry Men is all about.

When this play was first performed, in 1955, doubt and decision making in America - from the guilt or innocence of a street kid to the justification for war - was seen as the exclusive domain of white men. This evening, we have intentionally kept the same title, to draw attention to the diverse voices now included in critical discussions. I intentionally cast a number of female students because women are just as capable of anger as men are. I cast students from a variety of nationalities because prejudice exists whether you are from America, Britain, Puerto Rico, India or anywhere else. The problems faced by the characters in this play are not confined to stereotypes of gender, nationality or the jury room. By facing these problems, fears and doubts together, we are better prepared to overcome the challenges that limit our success as societies.

The real danger in life lies not in doubt, but in certainty. Expressing doubt displays an active mind, one that is willing to confront the problems of the day. Students who doubt the answer I provide in class are willing to learn more than what the textbook says. When students argue with me, I try not to take offense but to use each moment as an opportunity to discuss a new idea. Some claim that arguments complicate rather than facilitate our efforts to come together as a community. However, I find myself drawn more and more to debates that work towards a solution, no matter how long, loud or frustrating they may be.

I have doubts, and I'm sure the cast does as well. But we have run out of time to debate. It is time for action. The students involved in this production have made a great effort over the past two months. It has been a pleasure to work with them. If you enjoy this evening's performance, all credit is due to the students. This is their night.