The Big House

Young people in the area embark upon an 11-week social and developmental course led by Director Maggie Norris, the care-leavers involved are at high risk of social exclusion.

Theatre provides a platform for personal growth, self-expression, working through problems and developing skills. Each theatre production thus far has been a storming success, two hard-hitting promenade productions: Phoenix, BABY/LON and most recently The Realness, a musical about a young ex-offenders journey from zero to hero and Politrix, a verbatim piece about young people and politics.

Hackney Downs Studios feel enormously proud and privileged to partner with this hugely important and transformative theatre company.

What the critics say...

“Director Maggie Norris’s staging is never less than ambitious, and the 14-strong cast, a mix of professionals and Big House participants, bring a commitment and infectious energy to surpass many West End productions.” Laura Barnett, The Observer on THE REALNESS

“Knowing the realness of the play’s beating heart gives it an authenticity which matches the cast’s energetic, honest performances … For many, this is their first ever acting role but this fact rarely shows through and the standard is kept universally high … BABY/LON is both engaging and affecting, dealing with important issues in a way that makes them immediately real to anyone watching.” ★★★★ Broadway Baby on BABY/LON

“Inspired by the lives of its cast – all recent care-leavers – this pulsating, angry promenade production sizzles with energy.” Lyn Gardner, Guardian on PHOENIX

“Within 15 minutes I was hooked. I found myself jostling to get a better view” Camilla Cavendish, The Sunday Times on PHOENIX

The next Big House show at the Hackney Showroom runs 25th March - 11th April 2015, book your tickets for POLITRIX.