Things That Never Were – Emma’s Saturday Advancers
Things That Never Were
Group – Saturday Advancers
Date – 22nd March 2026
Time – 19:45
Written by By Phoebe Kingshott
Directed by Emma Kelly
What if history had taken a different turn?
Things That Never Were imagines an alternate America where Robert F. Kennedy survives, becomes president and faces a turbulent 1972 election against Ronald Reagan. As the Vietnam War drags on and the nation becomes increasingly divided, political rivals, journalists and power brokers shape competing visions of America’s future. Moving between the corridors of the White House, campaign rooms and the chaos of the outside world, the play explores power, propaganda and the fragile stories nations tell themselves about who they are.
It has been exciting to work with new writing and develop this production through a collaborative ensemble process. Throughout rehearsals, the company explored physical theatre techniques inspired by Laban and Lecoq, experimenting with movement, rhythm and spatial awareness to build character and atmosphere. Working with status, complicité and group storytelling, the performers learned to respond to one another instinctively, supporting the narrative as a collective rather than as individuals.
Along the way, the group also navigated significant challenges, including unexpected cast changes that required flexibility and generosity from everyone involved. The performers stepped up for one another, shared responsibility for the storytelling, and continued to refine the piece together.
What you see tonight is the result of that process. Through commitment, creativity and real ensemble spirit, the group have built something that reflects the discipline and collaborative energy of a professional theatre company.
Enjoy the show!
Emma Kelly
Things That Never Were
CAST LIST
Administration
President Kennedy Phoebe Kingshott
First Lady Ethel Maisie Hoyle
Secretary Unruh Peter Bullough
Unaligned
Senate Majority Leader Byrd Sam Hill
General Westmoreland Sam Hill
Republicans
Chairman Morton Sofia Sanches
Governor Reagan Oswyn Humphrey
Senator Bush Peter Bullough
Spy Irving Peter Bullough
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