Win 2 tickets to see DNA, The play this Friday March 28 at Groundlings Theatre Portsmouth

Groundlings Theatre Trust’s latest production of DNA, a dark comedy by Dennis Kelly, throws audiences into a world of distrust, social breakdown and teenage conspiracy.  When a group of friends take things too far, causing their life to potentially change forever, they are faced with a choice to confront the consequences of their actions or to create an ever bigger lie.  Feature a cast of talented young local actors from Portsmouth, the play runs this week from March 26 to March 28 with tickets available at groundlings.co.uk

'What's more important, one person or everyone?'

Groundlings Theatre Trust’s latest production of DNA, a dark comedy by Dennis Kelly, throws audiences into a world of distrust, social breakdown and teenage conspiracy. 

When a group of friends take things too far, causing their life to potentially change forever, they are faced with a choice to confront the consequences of their actions or to create an ever bigger lie.

A key text in the GCSE Drama and English curriculum, DNA resonates deeply with young audiences now as much as it did when it was first produced as part of National Theatre Connections in 2007, making it both an engaging and thought-provoking experience, as well as a play perfect for old and new audiences alike.

Continuing Groundlings Theatre Trust’s commitment to fostering local talent and audiences, the production features a cast of Portsmouth-based actors aged 12-17, many of whom will be stepping onto the stage for the first time. This talented and diverse group challenges traditional character stereotypes, with representation from the LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse communities, ensuring a fresh and authentic interpretation of the play.

“I am thrilled to be directing this incredible young cast,” says Rhys Chant, Director and Groundlings’ Theatre Co-Ordinator. “From day one, they’ve impressed me with their enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to challenge ideas. They don’t just want to perform—they want to collaborate, push boundaries, and inspire one another. Their passion is infectious, and it’s been an absolute joy to work with them. It’s what makes opportunities like this, and plays like DNA, so important when the arts sector is struggling—it allows young artists to be themselves.”

When asked about the choice of DNA for Groundlings’ next production Rhys added, “At a time when our community feels increasingly divided, DNA carries an important message. Leah’s call for kindness and unity is something we could all benefit from hearing.”

When asked what made them choose to audition, all the cast mentioned the opportunity to meet new people and how the characters and themes are as relevant today as when first written.

Abi playing Lou said “I wanted to prove to myself I could do a professional show and loved all the different interpretations in the play.  It has been great meeting new people” 

Olivia, playing Danny, said “I’m enjoying exploring the meaning behind the play and working with everyone to create something that feels fun and new”

In addition to those performing on stage, the cast are also supported by a variety of early career and young artists behind the scenes including our Assistant Producer, studying Film Production at the University of Portsmouth and our lighting and sound operator from a local secondary school who get the opportunity to work with our industry professionals and stage management team. 

Based in Portsmouth, Groundlings Theatre is just a 5 minute walk from the Hard with transport links by train, ferry and bus.  Tickets are now on sale at just £12, with £10 concessions, and can be purchased at www.groundlings.co.uk 
 

For your chance to win 2 tickets to this Friday's performance simply answer the following question. Competition Closes at 27th March at 9am. You must be over 18 and live in a PO Post Code to enter.

Terms and Conditions: Entrants must be 18 or over and live within a PO postcode. You can only enter each competition once. You can also text 'Express' your name, answer, and postcode to 81400 to enter. Text entries are charged at your standard network rate and you must have the bill payers permission before submitting your entry. Competition closes on Thursday 27th March at 9:00am. Entries after the competition closing date won't count but may still be charged. Winners are selected at random from the list on entries with the correct answer to the question. The winner will be contacted via telephone, email, or social media. Calls may be recorded and broadcast. Some prizes may require you to be able to collect them from the Express FM offices at Eldon Building, Winston Churchill Avenue, Portsmouth, PO12DJ.

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