Coram Boy

Coram Boy is a play adapted by Helen Edmundson from the novel of the same name by Jamila Gavin. The story is set in the 18th century and revolves around two main narratives: one of a foundling hospital and the other of a wealthy family dealing with issues of inheritance and identity. The play explores themes of social justice, family, and redemption, set against the backdrop of the Coram Hospital for deserted children, known today as the Foundling Museum.

Plot

The narrative of Coram Boy is split between two timelines, the 1740s and the 1750s, focusing on the lives of two boys, Aaron and Meshak, and their connection to the Coram Hospital. The hospital, founded by Thomas Coram, is a place where abandoned children are taken in and cared for. The story delves into the dark business of "Coram men," who promise desperate mothers to take their unwanted children to the Coram Hospital for a fee, only to often murder the infants and bury them along the way.

Meshak is the son of one such Coram man, Otis Gardiner, but is mentally challenged and deeply compassionate. He dreams of an angelic figure guiding him to save the children his father has doomed. Aaron, on the other hand, is the illegitimate son of a wealthy family's heir, who is forced to give him up to ensure his inheritance. The play follows their lives as they intertwine with the Coram Hospital's mission, revealing secrets, confronting moral dilemmas, and seeking redemption.

Themes

Coram Boy touches on several significant themes, including the value of human life, the impact of social inequality, and the possibility of redemption. The play critically examines the societal attitudes of the 18th century towards children born out of wedlock and the desperation of women forced to give up their children due to economic and social pressures. It also highlights the philanthropic efforts of figures like Thomas Coram, who sought to provide care and support for these abandoned children.

Production

The play was first staged at the National Theatre in London in 2005, directed by Melly Still. It received critical acclaim for its emotional depth, complex narrative, and the innovative use of music, composed by Adrian Sutton, and physical theatre to tell its story. The production was notable for its ambitious staging, including scenes set in the Coram Hospital, a ship at sea, and the English countryside, requiring significant technical skill and creativity from its production team.

Reception

Coram Boy has been praised for its powerful storytelling, complex characters, and the way it brings to life a significant chapter in British social history. Critics have highlighted the play's ability to tackle difficult subjects with sensitivity and depth, making it a moving experience for audiences. It has also been recognized for its contribution to discussions about social responsibility and the importance of caring for the most vulnerable members of society.

Legacy

The success of Coram Boy has led to several revivals and adaptations, including school and community theatre productions. It has also been used as an educational tool to explore 18th-century British history, the history of child welfare, and the arts' role in social change. The play continues to be relevant today, resonating with audiences through its themes of hope, redemption, and the enduring power of human compassion.