The Resurgence of Nostalgia & Supernatural Themes in Modern Theatre: Beyond Malory Towers
The Dunedin Fringe Festival 2026 is already generating buzz, and one production, Entertaining Angels Unaware, stands out. Inspired by Enid Blyton’s beloved Malory Towers series, this world-première isn’t simply a nostalgic throwback. It’s a signal of broader trends reshaping contemporary theatre – a potent blend of revisiting cherished narratives, exploring complex female relationships, and embracing the supernatural as a lens for examining profound human experiences.
Revisiting Childhood Comforts: Why Nostalgia Sells
There’s a powerful pull to the stories of our youth. In a world of constant change, nostalgia offers a comforting anchor. The success of revivals like the recent stage adaptation of Matilda the Musical (based on Roald Dahl’s novel) demonstrates this. According to a 2023 report by Statista, nostalgia-driven productions consistently outperform newer works at the box office. Entertaining Angels Unaware taps into this by reimagining the familiar world of Malory Towers, but with a darker, more nuanced edge.
This isn’t just about warm fuzzies. Revisiting these stories allows for critical re-evaluation. Penelope Hare’s play promises a “subversive portrayal,” suggesting a willingness to challenge the original source material and explore themes that might have been glossed over in the past. This resonates with a modern audience seeking more complex and thought-provoking narratives.
The Power of Female-Centric Stories
The play’s focus on five complex young women and their “power struggles” is another key trend. For too long, theatre has been dominated by male narratives. Now, there’s a growing demand for stories that center female experiences, particularly those exploring the intricacies of female friendships, rivalries, and self-discovery.
Plays like Six, the musical retelling of the stories of Henry VIII’s wives, have proven incredibly popular, demonstrating the appetite for female-led historical narratives. Similarly, productions like Little Women continue to draw audiences, highlighting the enduring appeal of stories about sisterhood and ambition. Entertaining Angels Unaware positions itself within this movement, promising a deep dive into the inner lives of its female characters.
Supernatural Elements as Metaphor: Exploring the Unseen
The inclusion of “a thread of the supernatural” is particularly intriguing. Contemporary theatre is increasingly using supernatural elements not as escapism, but as a way to explore complex psychological and emotional states. Think of the success of plays like The Lehman Trilogy, which uses ghostly presences to represent the weight of history and the consequences of financial decisions.
In Entertaining Angels Unaware, the presence of “Death” as a character suggests a metaphorical exploration of mortality, loss, and the choices we make in the face of adversity. The play’s central question – “which is crueler: to die for love, or to live on regardless?” – is a deeply philosophical one, and the supernatural framing allows for a more imaginative and emotionally resonant exploration of these themes.
Pro Tip: Look for theatre companies actively commissioning new works by female playwrights and those exploring unconventional narrative structures. These are often at the forefront of these emerging trends.
The Rise of Local & Emergent Creatives
The fact that Entertaining Angels Unaware is “designed and performed entirely by Ōtepoti-local emergent creatives” is significant. There’s a growing movement towards supporting local arts communities and providing platforms for emerging artists. This not only fosters creativity but also creates more diverse and representative theatre.
Fringe festivals, like the Dunedin Fringe Festival, are crucial in this regard. They provide a space for experimental work and allow artists to connect directly with audiences. This grassroots approach is challenging the traditional hierarchical structures of the theatre world.
FAQ
Q: Is Entertaining Angels Unaware suitable for all ages?
A: The play is described as being “for older sisters, younger sisters, and anyone who loves,” suggesting it’s geared towards a more mature audience than the original Malory Towers books.
Q: What is a “Touch Tour”?
A: A Touch Tour is an access performance where audience members who are blind or partially sighted can explore the set, costumes, and props before the show begins.
Q: Where can I find more information about the Dunedin Fringe Festival?
A: You can visit the official website at https://www.dunedinfringe.nz/
Did you know? The term “Fringe Theatre” originated at the Edinburgh Festival in 1947 when eight uninvited theatre companies showed up to perform alongside the official program.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this exciting new work. Explore the Dunedin Fringe Festival program and discover other innovative productions pushing the boundaries of contemporary theatre. Share your thoughts on the evolving landscape of theatre in the comments below!
