Intermission Theatre, a former derelict church in London, will host the world premiere of a slavery drama next week.
Cracking the Whip is about a small-time Hackney drug dealer who finds himself transported back in time to a South Virginia slave plantation.
The play is written by Darren Raymond and Fabian Spencer, who both underwent life-changing experiences while in prison.
Intermission Actors is a newly formed theatre company engaging professional actors and professional directors who are also ex-offenders. The actors also take part in a summer programme to reach out through theatre to inspire young people at risk of offending in the local community.
St Saviour's Church was built in 1859, but lay derelict for many years. There were plans to turn it into a luxury housing development but a campaign saved it for the community in 2002.
The Rev Rob Gillion, Vicar of St Saviour's and Creative Director of Intermission, had been a professional actor for many years before ordination. He was asked to re-open the church with a special brief to be creative.
-
9 prayers for 2026: Stepping into the New Year trusting God
-
Ringing in the New Year: A history of New Year traditions in the British Isles
-
Fire severely damages historic Amsterdam church on New Year’s Day
-
Church group praying after New Year's fire tragedy in Switzerland
-
The pope that is remembered each year on December 31
-
Nigerian government accused of being in denial about persecution of Christians
Most Popular
News
I love Jesus, but do I need church?
Don’t let fear, doubt, or even pride keep you on the sidelines.
Christians react to US capture of Maduro
Some Christian leaders have been enthusiastic about US actions in Venezuela, while others have been more cautious.
Church community projects linked to falling antisocial behaviour and crime
A Croydon council estate once known locally for disorder and intimidation has seen markedly better trends in crime and antisocial behaviour over the past decade, with a new study suggesting sustained church-led community projects played a significant role.
Over a million Australians attend church each week - study
New national data suggests Australia’s churches are continuing a gradual recovery in weekly attendance following the COVID-19 pandemic, while still falling short of levels seen at the turn of the millennium.