TO WALK IN YOUR SHOES – Theatre Project
RedBobble Theatre Company are an all-female trio based in the North of England. In 2013, they teamed up with documentary photographer Rachael Munro-Fawcett and charity PAFRAS (Positive Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers) to create a piece of Verbatim theatre alongside a unique exhibition of photography exploring the topic of what it really means to seek Asylum.
Compiled from real life interviews with asylum seekers and refugees living in the North of England, TO WALK IN YOUR SHOES, the play, explores the side without a voice. With stories from Syria, Iran, Pakistan, Eritrea and recounting their experiences living in the UK, the play explores the strength and resilience of the human spirit and challenges the myths and untruths perpetuated by the media.
They spent months visiting charities, drop ins, community centres and even people’s homes, gathering research and stories. City of Sanctuary groups were a great source of research and they’d like to thank all those involved.
In the years since the project began, the play and exhibition have toured to Seven Arts – Leeds, RNCM & Hope Mill Theatre – Manchester, New Vic Theatre – Stoke, The Lowry & Broughton Hub – Salford, St James at The Interchange – Doncaster and BRASS – Bolton.
They recently invited service users at BRASS, Bolton and Doncaster Conversation Club to observe their rehearsals. It turned out to be an incredible experience with some people assisting with direction and offering insight into the reality of some of the scenes in the play.
After trialling drama workshops for refugee children aged 6-16, they’re now also working with the International Family Centre, Bolton to deliver them on a regular basis.
RedBobble Theatre are currently taking bookings for a final tour which will be 25 September – 20 October 2017. If you’re interested in the play and want to discuss the possibility of RedBobble Theatre bringing it to a drop in, community hall, church, school or theatre near you please get in touch! [email protected]
Images by Rachael Munro-Fawcett and Grant Archer
https://www.redbobbletheatre.co.uk/to-walk-in-your-shoes/4590473654
Some audience feedback…
“They’re telling our history”
“Very realistic. It was part of my life that was being played.”
“Incredibly thought provoking. Beautiful performances”
“A refreshing look at a difficult subject”
“This should be the politicians message to the people on immigration, not the lies that are fed.”