What was it?
In July 2023 we ran our IGNITE project at Category B/C prison HMP Elmley.
A team of two directors, a producer and a dramaturg collaborated with a group of 8 men to create a play in a week.
Throughout the week, the group kept returning to ideas around the possibility for change - and the barriers to it. Out of this was born an anthology play, called CHANGE TAKES TIME. It was performed to a large audience of prison staff and other invited guests on the final afternoon.
"I spoke to all of the participants after the show and every one of them said what a positive experience it had been for them. They also said they’d almost given up at the start of the course because they didn’t have the self-belief they could control their nerves to speak and perform in public; but that the level of encouragement and belief in them was amazing…What a testament to the Kestrel Theatre Company team."
— Deputy Governor of HMP Elmley
Director Jason York and dramaturg Simon Longman having a laugh in rehearsal.
Two actors rehearsing.
Producer Annys Whyatt, directors Eleanor Henderson and Jason York, and dramaturg Simon Longman in rehearsal.
Director Jason York giving final notes just before the performance.
Actors looking over changes to the script on show day.
Director Jason York in flow.
"This was by far the best week of my working career, working with this cohort of people. There was so much mutual respect and kindness within the group it really made me feel so proud of their journeys and where they were now heading to. It has even made most of them want to continue with activities such as these. Thank you, Kestrel, you were all amazing and I feel very privileged to have been on this journey with you all."
— Claire Morris, Neurodiversity Support Manager at HMP Elmley
Cast Feedback
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As soon as I met El and Jason I knew I was taking part. I was nervous at first but have really enjoyed the week and so proud of everyone.
Performer
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The bonding with the games...amazing. At the start they sounded like they were silly, but they make so much sense, now. A few of the lads want to play them out in the yard...yeah. I've loved it. Truly.
Performer
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Playing games and the way you made us interact with each other brought out the confidence in me. I'm really pleased I stuck with it until the end. I've got real friends out of it as well.
Performer
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I was so nervous at the beginning but the group was great to work with - change is possible. Even in a week.
Performer