Show highlights sensitive issues in the young (From Thurrock Gazette)

Show highlights sensitive issues in the young

7:00am Monday 30th April 2012 in News

A THEATRE company has delivered a powerful message to pupils at Ormiston Park Academy.

London-based Futures Theatre Company performed a short play, based around the theme of sexual bullying, before interacting with students through a workshop.

The company, whose tour of schools in Thurrock is being funded by Lakeside Shopping Centre, specialise in performing dramas and workshops that highlight issues within society.

The play, enjoyed by over 100 Year 8 pupils at Ormiston, told the story of a teenage boy and girl who are in a relationship, but neither of which are ready to have sex for the first time, despite pressure from their friends.

The play raised issues of sexism, peer pressure and bullying. Once the play was over, pupils were asked how they would have done things differently if they were in the characters’ shoes.

Futures Theatre Company, which consults closely with schools and charities regarding prevalent social issues, has received acclaim from big charities such as Childline and Barnardo’s.

The company then tours schools to deliver their messages.

Artistic director Caroline Bryant said: “An agency we work closely with was hearing a lot about sexual bullying in schools. So we started to work with students to get there ideas on what sort of thing is going on.

“This kind of theatre, Forum theatre, allows us to present the issues in a way that is fun and engaging.”

Paul Lancaster, Lakeside general manager, who was at the performance, said: “When we knew we had the opportunity to do this, we jumped at it.

“We always knew it was going to be a powerful subject, but to see it in action was fantastic.”