A theatre production originally created in Aberystwyth is marking a major milestone this month, as Roll for Remission returns to the stage to celebrate its 10th anniversary.
Written and directed by Anna Sherratt, the production explores the experiences of four teenagers living with cancer, who turn to a fantasy role-playing game inspired by Dungeons & Dragons to escape the realities of hospital treatment.
Combining fantasy, comedy and some difficult realities, the production follows the teenagers as they navigate two very different worlds. While their imaginations take them on adventures battling pirates and monsters, their everyday lives involve the challenges of cancer treatment, chemotherapy and hospital stays.
One of the show's most distinctive features is its interactive format, with audience members invited to roll a giant 20-sided dice, helping to determine how the story unfolds. This means each performance can take a different direction, giving audiences a unique experience every time.
The production was originally inspired by Anna's own experience of receiving cancer treatment at just 21 years old, shortly before completing her university degree. Through the show, she wanted to create an opportunity for more honest conversations about young people living with cancer, disability, death and bereavement, while demonstrating that stories surrounding difficult subjects can also be entertaining, humorous and uplifting.
Over the past decade, Roll for Remission has reached audiences across the UK, including healthcare professionals, youth services and visitors to the 2022 National Eisteddfod in Tregaron. The production was also recognised in 2017, receiving an award from the charity Young Lives vs Cancer for its contribution to raising awareness of the experiences of young people living with cancer.
For the 10th anniversary, the show is returning with a new cast, featuring young performers who auditioned through Aberystwyth Arts Centre Youth Theatre, alongside professional actor James Qualtrough. The celebrations will also bring together members of the original cast and creative team, offering an opportunity to look back on the production's journey and share memories from the past decade.
Adding to the celebrations, performers from Hijinx's Mid Theatre Academy will present a fantasy-themed curtain raiser ahead of the Saturday matinee performance. The academy supports performers with learning disabilities to develop their skills and experience in theatre.
The anniversary programme will also feature a post-show comedy sketch and a question-and-answer session, giving audiences an opportunity to hear more about the show's creation and the people involved in bringing it to life.
The return of Roll for Remission is not simply a celebration of a theatre production, but also a reflection of the importance of local creativity and storytelling. Ten years on, its central message remains just as relevant, using theatre, humour and audience participation to approach subjects that are often difficult to discuss.
Roll for Remission will be performed at Aberystwyth Arts Centre on Friday 20 November at 7pm, followed by two performances on Saturday 21 November at 2pm and 7pm. The Saturday matinee will be a relaxed performance, with British Sign Language interpretation available at both Saturday performances.
Tickets are available through Aberystwyth Arts Centre's box office, online or by telephone on 01970 623232.