The Dispute

When parents separate, children feel it too. But how often are their voices heard?

Based on the original production from French/Algerian theatre maker Mohamed El Khatib, The Dispute turns the tables on the common narrative of family separation.

Six children take the stage to share their stories, questions and perspectives on their parents’ separation. They ask burning questions and put the event into their works, telling it how they see it.

In preparation, director Jackson Castiglione interviewed over 60 young people and the final cast worked with him to shape the script, drawing on their own stories, those of the originating French cast and further insights from other interviewees who couldn’t be in the production.

Each of the young performers has taken an active part in the creation of the work. Their observations reveal an intelligence and awareness that is moving, sweet, funny and insightful. The Dispute is audacious, intimate, mischievous and emotional.

• Listen to Jackson and Mohamed answer young people's questions about The Dispute
• 'Kids dissect parents’ divorces on stage – and break your heart in the process' – Nick Miller, The Age
• The Stage Show on ABC Radio National (interview with Jackson starts at 28:50)