F
emi Keeling’s extremely relevant play explores the many challenges facing those just released from prison, including applying for Universal Credit.
Through the story of Terrence, who’s just been released from a short prison sentence, Rising documents the many battles he must embark on in order to get his life back on track. From squaring up against a system that seems to be actively working against him, to the constant confrontations with demons from his past, the play highlights the shocking ease with which people can fall into homelessness.
Rising has just completing a month-long tour of hostels, prisons and daycentres across the capital, reaching around a thousand people experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness.
Each performance is followed by an interactive session where audience members are able to step into the action and change the outcome of the story. Discussions are then held, and audiences suggest new laws and policies that would improve the lives of those leaving prison, those who have to navigate the benefits system and those who become homeless.
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The most reoccurring points will be proposed to a panel of policymakers and lobbyists at an event at the Council Chamber of London’s City Hall next Tuesday (27th).
And this is where you come in: this discussion and a performance of the play – courtesy of the award-winning Cardboard Citizens theatre company – will be streamed live from City Hall. The free public performance hopes to further encourage public attention and involvement by asking audiences to actively participate online.
Main image: Cardboard Citizens
