Global Aid And The Power Systems At Play

Landing at the Arcola Theatre, A Fine Idea is writer Christine Bacon’s theatrical exploration global aid, inequality and the power systems that keep good intentions from being seen through. Inspired by the economic critiques found in Jason Hickel’s bestselling book The Divide, the play stars newcomer Ella Bryant in the lead role of Jo, making her professional stage debut under the direction of award-winning director Charlotte Westenra. Starring alongside Bryant is Georgina Rich (Heartstopper), Grace Saif (Ballet Shoes) and Kevin Trainor (An Octoroon).

What Is The Story?

Jo is an aid worker who has spent years on the front lines of global crises, firmly believing her career is a force for good. But her core convictions are turned upside-down when she crosses paths with an activist risking everything for her country. A Fine Idea unpacks decades of geopolitical history to examine how, in a world where systemic wealth imbalances are widening rather than closing, Jo’s life’s work - and that of many well intentioned people like her - may really just masking a broken system.