Sir, - I refer to Ms Willis's letter (June 30th) and her comments regarding the inclusion of children in the performances of Medea at the Abbey Theatre.
Medea is one of the most powerful plays in the classical repertoire and Deborah Warner's production at the Abbey Theatre, with Fiona Shaw's central performance as Medea, was an exhilarating and disturbing theatrical experience. The participation of children was a vital element and every effort was made, in the selection of the four young actors performing in the production, to ensure that they were able to understand their play-acting role. Great care was taken by the director, the company and the staff of the National Theatre to safeguard their welfare and they were under the supervision of a chaperone at all times before, during and after the performances. Each child was in only 18 of the 36 performances as they worked in rotation, in pairs.
I would also add that the parents of the children were involved at every stage of the production, from rehearsal through to performance, and the feedback from them was not only very positive but indicated that the children enjoyed the experience.
I hope this goes some way towards reassuring your readers in general and Ms Willis in particular of the seriousness with which the National Theatre regards the use of young actors in its work. My special thanks to the children who joined the Medea company, and their parents, for their time, energy and professionalism. - Yours, etc.,
Ben Barnes, Artistic Director, The National Theatre, Lower Abbey Street, Dublin 1.