BREEDING
King’s Head Theatre, by Barry McStay, London [2024]
Set + Costume Design by Ruby Law
Breeding is a heartwarming play, written by Barry McStay, showing at the new space of the Kings Head Theatre in 2024. The play tells the story of Zeb and Eoin, a young gay couple who want to adopt, who meet their social worker Beth at a crucial moment in their lives. The three stages of the Southwark Council adoption process serve as the backbone of the story. When reading through all the official adoption documents, I was overwhelmed, and I wanted to share this feeling with the audience by adorning the wall with adoption documents.
The stage design draws inspiration from the journey to parenthood. Vibrant Using vibrant primary colours, reminiscent of a nursery, juxtaposing the weighty themes explored in the play with childlike innocence. Enlarged toy blocks create a dynamic set, transitioning seamlessly between scenes. A blue stripe winds across the stage, forming an elevated road platform symbolising the hope and uncertainty along the journey of parenthood. The elevated road also transforms into an imaginary flow of water, metaphorically representing the Hampstead Heath scene.
Amidst this colourful landscape, a bittersweet sense of hope and joy permeates the air, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the emotional depths of Breeding.
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“ The set design by Ruby Law is a work of art in its own right, seamlessly transforming the stage to reflect the shifting dynamics of the characters’ lives and the adoption process.” - All Things Theatre
“ The real star of this production is designer Ruby Law… Law perfectly executes a set that’s creative and fun while remaining rooted in the story; really outstanding work.” - Broadway World
“ Ruby Law’s set and costume design are nothing short of fantastic, offering a playful and well-conceived backdrop that enhances the narrative’s depth.” - The Reviews Hub
“ This review would not be complete without mentioning the fantastic set and costume design (Ruby Law)… The excellent backdrop made up of what looks like real adoption papers was such a clever additional element.” - Adventures in Theatreland
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Writer: Barry McStay | Director: Tom Ratcliffe | Set Design + Costume Design: Ruby Law @ RULA | Lighting Design: Rachel Sempley | Sound Design: Jac Copper | Production Manager: Sophy Leys Johnston | Stage Manager: Honor Klein | Producer: Gabriella Sills
Photography Credit: Ed Rees + RULA Design Studio
