Pomona

The production and my role:

Pomona appeared on the autumn line-up as the week 5 weekend show, with performances from Oct. 24th-26th, 2025.

I never thought I'd have the opportunity to direct for DramaSoc again, but nevertheless, I was beyond excited to hear I was successful in my pitch for Pomona, a truly unique play filled with many dark twists and surprises that left many asking lots of questions. My intention was to not ignore the many dark undertones and suggestions the play presents, but highlight them. It’s a mystery play that unfolds itself in front of viewers, and although it answers questions, it also leaves audiences with a few unanswered, awaiting their interpretation. With each reading of the play, I discovered a new connection and I wanted that to be a shared experience amongst the cast and crew that we could all use to explore the text together! After our read-through, we sat down and not only discussed the play but created a timeline of events, as a key part of Pomona's script is that it is written/presented non-linearly.

Drawing from my previous experience in directing and shows I've provided creative input on as a producer, I wanted to take elements of everything I had learned for this project, especially in terms of overall atmosphere and tone. This text challenged me at points, especially in staging two scenes where lines allocation is up to the director and there are no stage directions. I was hesitant initially as I tend to struggle with more abstract stagings, however these scenes ended up being some of my favorites overall. Working with the actors on them and getting their view on their characters and scenarios. This was especially helpful as the play is very minimalist in action, so a focus on smaller details and micro-expressions was key.

Design-wise, I viewed the scenes of the play as something that keeps flowing into each other. Inspired by the detail of the Sweeney Todd and Mirror Circle. set, I wanted to utilise the whole venue to my advantage. We were the first show in a long time to incorporate the entrance area of the drama barn into our set design. Audience entered a hospital-like setting, and as they walked toward their seats, went through an area meant to reminisce tunnels, eventually leading out to Pomona. Sprinkled in the set was also references and hints to some later reveals in the play. All set pieces that were used for scene transitions were already incorporated on stage, so added to the cohesion of the show. Lighting and sound played a huge part to the show with it being an additional indication to when/where the scenes in the show actually fall. There was also lots to play with using tech to depict realistic scenes and contrasting it to ensemble, story-telling sequences.

Pomona will always be something I look fondly back on. I'm so proud of this production and grateful to have worked with such talented creatives!