Synopsis & Journeys
The Tragic Trajectory of Callum and Sephy
Cooke adaptation: narration and rapid transitions
The Cooke text uses narration and rapid movement across time. One practical approach is to use direct address, visible transitions and physical theatre so the audience can follow the story while remaining alert to its political argument.
Interactive: The Timeline of Story Theatre
Click the timeline nodes to track the plot and see how the RSC's minimalist staging evolves.
Phase 1: The Private Beach
The play opens with Callum (a Nought) and Sephy (a Cross) as childhood friends meeting secretly. They are naive to the brutal reality of their segregated world, imagining they can simply run away together without consequence.
🎭 Possible staging choice
In a minimalist interpretation, the actors could create the beach through mime, relaxed posture and open proxemics, keeping the focus on Callum and Sephy’s natural bond.