The Trials: Can Theater Change The World?

Imagine a world where climate crisis has caused massive social, geographical and political upheaval. In this world, at a near-future moment, a group of teenagers have been called together to serve as a jury. They preside over the judgment of three adult defendants for “climate crimes.” Each case must be decided in fifteen minutes -- and if the defendant is found guilty, they are executed -- immediately.

This is the compelling story of “The Trials”, written by prize-winning playwright Dawn King. This riveting production, directed by Anthony Cunningham, is being brought to life on the stage at the American School of the Hague. Students have been in rehearsals since January. 

Each production the school produces is different, and this one has its own powerful relevance. “This play is holding up a mirror to our society. It doesn’t offer solutions; it reflects the alarm I’m feeling about our world right now and my own place in it,” says Mr Cunningham. “Working on a production like this empowers students to address topical issues in a new light. It allows us to look at things in a way we haven’t looked at them before.”

Theater is an important part of the community of the American School, which puts on three mainstage performances each school year, and it’s not only the students performing on stage who take great pride in their work. Productions are supported by dozens of students who create sets and costumes, work backstage on props and set changes, and run light and sound, under the guidance of the skilled technical artists on staff.

The level of the theatrical productions at ASH is always excellent, and it’s exciting to see a performance and realize how much work has been done by students. Pryosh, from the sound team, explains why he likes working backstage:  “I love the behind-the-scenes perspective. It’s great to see everything coming together and to contribute to something where if you weren’t there, it couldn’t happen -- all the elements need to be there in order to allow the show to come to life.”

This year’s production promises to be especially gripping, and the community of Wassenaar is invited to attend. “The Trials” is particularly recommended to anyone who’s interested in a unique theater experience that asks powerful social questions and can engender lively discussion. Soren, a student actor, reflects: “It’s interesting to see how people’s emotions can change based on small factors, and how that can affect big things, like life and death. It’s exciting to tell different stories and express other people’s viewpoints and ideas. Theater helps you understand people and think about issues from different perspectives.”

“The Trials” will be performed at the American School of the Hague on April 12 and 13th at 19:00. Doors open at 18:30. Tickets cost 10 euros and can be reserved by emailing mpilk@ash.nl. The production will be performed in English, and contains mature themes and strong language. Viewer discretion is advised.