THE BRIGHT YOUNG THINGS
“In these circles, truth is a luxury”
The Bright Young Things began as a concept brought forward by Ming Hudson. Through her direction and facilitation, a group of 8 actors came together to devise the show. It was originally performed in 2021 and then revived and renewed in 2023, when it was taken on the Fringe circuit. It was at this time that Folding Camera Theatre was created, inspired by the old cameras used to capture the historical figures of The Bright Young Things.
Who Were They?
The Bright Young Things were a group of young bohemian aristocrats, socialites, and artists in London during the 1920s. They would throw extravagant parties and treasure hunts that would take them through the streets, bedecked in jewels, fancy clothing, and makeup. These young people experimented with gender fluidity and sexual exploration. Men donned gowns, and women would cut their hair short and dress in suits. In many ways, they were far beyond their times. Their over-the-top antics quickly gained the attention of the press, who began publishing the salacious details of these adventures for the common folk. While they were partying, the people of London were struggling to survive after the devastation of the First World War. After the initial fascination wore off, the people became jaded with their behaviour, and as the struggles of the 30s came barrelling forward, the gluttony of The Bright Young Things had to come to an end.
Our Story
The story of this play happens over the course of one night. It is a party, just like any other party, for these free spirits. Through fast-paced scenes, the audience gains a glimpse into the lives of these people, almost as if they were walking through a mansion, overhearing interactions as the night goes on. There are familial struggles, friendships forged and lost, romance, and heartbreak. Wealth, abundance, trauma, lies, and self-preservation are diseases that are quickly consuming these characters. The play poses questions that we, in our modern society, are still grappling with. The Bright Young Things are truly no different than the youth of today, struggling to discover their place in the world and who they want to be.
Bright Young Things Trailer
Novus TV Spotlight
My Photography
I wore many hats to produce this show. One of the areas I was most excited about was being able to photograph my fellow actors in costume so I could create marketing materials to promote the show. Below are some of the photos that I took.
I created character portraits for each of the characters to introduce the audience to our ensemble.
Original Production
Original Poster Created by Emma Rose Gold
The original production of The Bright Young Things debuted in October 2021. As an ensemble, we had to navigate the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic to put on the show. The similarities between our experience in the 2020s and that of the people in the 1920s were striking. As a group of young people, trying to navigate our futures, there was a kinship between us and the historical figures we were portraying. Despite the hurdles, we were able to perform our show, and it sparked the beginning of our adventure.
Original Production Trailer
Oliva Ross
Photos by Ming Hudson
Original Production Photos
