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TICKETS TO EDINBURGH FRINGE SHOWS NOW ON SALE HERE.
In 1942 a group of young German students formed The White Rose, a non-violent Resistance movement calling for active opposition to the Nazi Regime. Arrested by the Gestapo in 1943, the three founder members, Sophie, Hans and Christoph were executed after a show trial – but their words and actions remain today as powerful symbols in the fight against tyranny.
The Sentence, Jess Valentine’s powerful new drama, which she both wrote and directed, brought their interrogation, trial and execution imaginatively to life. Rufus S’s sinister portrayal of Roland Freisler, President of the so-called People’s Court, was a compelling and uncomfortable depiction of untrammelled power, while Eloise K’s nuanced Sophie Scholl allowed the captivated audience anger, hope, despair and courage. Mack D-J, Maisie S, Josh C and Will L were all excellent in their roles, bringing home the reality of life under the yoke of oppression.
Lower Sixth-former Jess’s script was full of twists and turns, impressing not only with its power and range, but also its sensitive treatment of uncomfortable truth. This was a memorable evening and served notice yet again of the versatility and talent to be found at Wellington – but if you missed the premiere, all is not lost, for Jess and her cast will be taking the play to the Edinburgh Fringe in early August, where once again the spirit of the White Rose will live on.
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