Imagine a world where the internet raises your kids. Vicky Binns’ new play ‘Yen’ plunges into this unsettling reality, revealing raw truths about neglected youth and our digital age. It’s challenging, yet surprisingly tender. Are you ready for a theatrical experience that will make you rethink everything?
Actress Vicky Binns returns to the acclaimed Octagon theatre, transitioning from the satirical domestic bliss of ‘Home, I’m Darling’ to the stark, gritty reality presented in Anna Jordan’s award-winning play, ‘Yen.’ This new production promises a deeply moving and thought-provoking experience, exploring the often-unseen struggles of modern youth.
In ‘Yen,’ Binns embodies Maggie, a complex character grappling with addiction, whose two teenage sons, Bobbie and Aaron, are left to navigate a world shaped by the internet with minimal adult guidance. The play unflinchingly portrays their isolated existence within a brutal environment, highlighting the profound impact of neglect and the digital age on young lives.
Originally penned by Anna Jordan, ‘Yen’ garnered the prestigious Bruntwood Prize in 2013 before premiering at Manchester’s Royal Exchange in 2015. Its critical acclaim set the stage for its current run, a testament to its powerful narrative and relevant social commentary.
The current Octagon production is spearheaded by Divided Culture, the innovative team comprising Connor Goodwin and Dan Lovatt. Known for their dedication to championing Northern talent, Goodwin and Lovatt successfully brought ‘Toxic’ to the Octagon previously, further cementing their reputation for impactful theatre production.
Binns expresses enthusiasm for ‘Yen’s’ ability to provoke deep thought among audiences. She acknowledges that the play may challenge viewers, pushing them into uncomfortable territory while simultaneously revealing moments of profound beauty and tenderness. It aims to transcend initial judgments, inviting empathy for its complex characters.
The themes within ‘Yen’ possess a remarkable contemporary resonance, according to Binns. The narrative mirrors ongoing societal debates regarding young people’s intense relationship with the internet, addressing concerns about screen time, digital literacy, and the potential exposure to violence and pornography that shapes their understanding of the world.
Despite its portrayal of a brutal and bleak environment, ‘Yen’ ultimately underscores the resilience of the human spirit. Binns emphasizes the play’s non-judgmental lens, particularly with the introduction of a character who offers much-needed nurture, love, and genuine connection, revealing the universal yearning for belonging that even the most isolated individuals possess.
Ultimately, Vicky Binns highlights the transformative power of live theatre. ‘Yen,’ she believes, offers a unique opportunity for audiences to step into another’s shoes, fostering understanding and challenging preconceived notions about the lives and struggles of others. It’s a compelling piece that offers hope amidst the harsh realities it depicts.
