News Kafka came to Doncaster with Lost Dream

On Friday 19 September, Sir Nigel Gresley Square became a huge open-air stage as Cast welcomed Lost Dream, a free outdoor performance by the famous Polish company Teatr Ósmego Dnia (Theatre of the Eighth Day). The show was part of Cast’s work with Global Streets, a national network that brings free international arts events to towns and cities across the UK.

A bold theatre company

“The Eights” have been leaders of Polish theatre for more than sixty years. The group began in 1964, formed by students at Adam Mickiewicz University. At first their plays were inspired by poetry, but over time they developed a daring, experimental style. Their shows often explore difficult truths about modern life, using theatre as a space for honesty, challenge and shared experience.

Kafka brought to life

Lost Dream pulled audiences into a world that was part dream, part nightmare. Inspired by the writings of Franz Kafka, including The Trial, The Metamorphosis and In the Penal Colony, the play reflected themes of control, fear and resistance.

The performance combined pounding music, blinding lights and a huge metal structure a storey high. The atmosphere was intense and often chaotic. Beds rolled through the crowd, flagpoles turned into weapons, and a lone man carried his life on his back while being led through the audience by a doctor who intermittently shushed onlookers. Above it all, a woman sang and narrated from inside a giant cage-like tower, at once guiding and controlling the action.

A mirror to today

The production left space for many different interpretations. But for lots of people, the links to today’s political divisions and social struggles were clear. Lost Dream was more than theatre. It was an invitation to question the systems and rules that shape our lives.

Doncaster at the centre

Whatever the meaning, the impact was powerful. Around a thousand people came to watch, families, seasoned theatregoers, first-time audiences and passers-by. Children sat on shoulders, phones lit up the night, and the performance ended with huge applause. 

For Cast, the event marked ten years of partnership with Global Streets.

Deborah Rees, Director at Cast, said:
“Our partnership with Global Streets has now reached its tenth year, and it’s something we’re incredibly proud of. Together we’ve been able to bring unforgettable international performances right into the heart of Doncaster, completely free for everyone to experience. These events break down barriers to the arts, spark conversations, and create shared moments of wonder in our city. Global Streets has helped us show that world-class theatre doesn’t just belong in major capitals - it belongs here, in our communities.”

Global Streets has already brought major outdoor shows to Doncaster, including Colour of Light (2015), Clash of Drums (2016), Arka (2018), RISE! (2019), Global Rainbow (2021), Sharing the Light (2022) and Lampadophores (2024). With Lost Dream, Doncaster once again played host to something extraordinary.

As a charity, Cast depends on the generosity of our donors and supporters. Their help makes it possible to bring world-class performances like this to Doncaster, free for everyone to enjoy. If you’d like to see more events like Lost Dream in Doncaster, consider making a donation today!