The anticipation surrounding “The Hunger Games On Stage” is palpable, a fever pitch rarely seen in the theatre world. Based on Suzanne Collins’s gripping first novel, and amplified by the iconic films, the production plunges audiences into the chilling reality of Panem – a nation where teenagers are forced to fight for their lives in a televised spectacle.
The sheer scale of the production is breathtaking. A specially-constructed arena, meticulously divided to represent Panem’s districts, promises an immersive experience, drawing the audience directly into the story’s brutal heart. For Mia Carragher, who embodies the resilient Katniss Everdeen, and Tristan Waterson, as her steadfast friend Gale, this weight of expectation is keenly felt.
“It’s a weird pressure,” Carragher admits. “You want to honor what people already love, but also deliver something fresh.” The production is a living, breathing entity, constantly evolving even in previews. “We’re in rehearsals all day, then performing every night… there’s a lot going on,” she explains, hinting at the intense dedication required to bring this world to life.
Waterson emphasizes the invaluable role of a live audience during this crucial period. “You don’t truly know how something will land until you have over a thousand people watching,” he says. That immediate feedback is shaping the show, refining its impact with each performance.
This marks a pivotal moment for Carragher, her professional stage debut. The audition process itself was a rigorous test of skill, encompassing dance, movement, fight choreography, and even harness work. She recalls the moment she received the news, a flood of emotion shared with her parents via a frantic FaceTime call – a memory she cherishes.
Carragher’s athletic background, honed during years of competitive athletics, has proven surprisingly beneficial. The role demands physicality, and she’s embraced the challenge, mastering skills like archery – a defining trait of Katniss Everdeen. She secretly began training near her Liverpool home, carefully guarding the reason for her newfound passion.
The production isn’t just grounded in physical prowess; it’s also pushing the boundaries of theatrical innovation. Expect aerial sequences, daring climbs, and moments that defy gravity. Carragher approaches these challenges with a focused determination. “I don’t have time to panic,” she says, “we just move on to the next scene.”
The initial preview performance wasn’t without its hurdles, with delays causing frustration among those eager to enter the world of Panem. However, once the show began, Carragher felt a surge of pride. Navigating the online reaction has been a learning experience, with Waterson acknowledging the difficulty of avoiding the constant stream of commentary.
Both actors recognize the unique intensity of a live performance. “You watch the characters’ journey unfold right before your eyes,” Carragher explains. “By the end, we’re all physically and emotionally exhausted, and you can see it.” This raw, visceral connection is what sets the stage adaptation apart from the films.
For Waterson, the experience has reinforced a fundamental truth about collaboration. “No matter the scale of the project,” he observes, “the core principles remain the same: mutual support and respect. That’s a lesson I’ll carry with me, regardless of where my career takes me.”
The possibility of adapting the entire trilogy for the stage is a tantalizing prospect. Both Carragher and Waterson express their enthusiasm, envisioning the challenges and opportunities presented by subsequent installments. “Imagine the second book with all the swimming!” Carragher exclaims, a spark of excitement in her voice.
“The story doesn’t end here,” Waterson adds, “there’s so much more to explore.” As the curtain rises on “The Hunger Games On Stage,” one thing is certain: this is a theatrical event poised to captivate and challenge audiences for years to come.
