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.
-
Evangelical leader resigns canon title over controversial same-sex blessings
-
Worship leader Ron Kenoly dies at 81
-
New 'Islamophobia' definition rejected by representatives of all major faiths
-
Young struggle to understand 'problematic' Jesus
-
Darlington Nurses, Päivi Räsänen warn US about declining freedom in Britain and Europe
-
Darlington nurse describes brave stand for biological reality in US speech
Most Popular
News
Cuban bishops warn oil sanctions could deepen hardship and unrest
The message, read in Catholic parishes nationwide, warned that further pressure on fuel access would fall most heavily on vulnerable families already struggling to survive.
Turkey taken to task over Christians banned from the country
Foreign pastors are often labelled "national security" threats.
Church of England directs £600,000 towards clergy mental health and financial support
The funding package includes new grants for two national charities working with clergy facing psychological strain and financial pressure.
St William shrine fragments return to York Minster after 500 years underground
Fragments of a long-lost medieval shrine honouring St William of York have returned to York Minster for the first time in nearly 500 years, marking a major moment in the cathedral’s history and a highlight of its programme for 2026.