Free thought-provoking theatre show to challenge perception of refugees

A powerful theatre performance in North Liverpool is set to challenge perceptions and change the narrative surrounding refugees.

Afloat, which will be staged at Liverpool Lighthouse in Anfield on the 21 and 22 June, invites audiences to imagine what it would be like to be born into a country where their safety is at risk.

The show follows two English citizens fighting for their lives as their dream to make ‘Britain Great’ turns into a living nightmare, offering a stark, thought-provoking perspective on the plight of asylum seekers.

Afloat brings real-life stories of asylum seekers to the stage, encouraging the audience to step into their shoes and confront the daily struggles and challenges they face.

By experiencing their journey firsthand, the performance aims to foster a deeper sense of empathy and compassion for those navigating the asylum process.

Afloat has been put together by industry professionals working alongside members of Asylum Link.

Following the show, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a post-show discussion led by Asylum Link Merseyside. This discussion will explore how local communities can support asylum seekers and contribute to a more inclusive society.

Asylum Link Merseyside, dedicated to helping asylum seekers and refugees, offers a warm welcome, friendship, and a place to belong.

Their vision is to create a society where asylum seekers are accepted, understood, and welcomed, benefiting the entire community. The organisation provides essential resources and support, including a food bank, courses, and one-to-one assistance.

The show itself has been put together by industry professionals working alongside members of Asylum Link in workshops on all aspects of devising theatre.

Together, they have crafted a performance that not only educates audiences on the asylum process but also highlights the importance of community cohesion and the transformative power of the arts.

Phoebe McSweeney - Afloat — Phoebe McSweeney – Afloat

Phoebe McSweeney, Lead Artist, Director & Facilitator on Afloat, said:

“Afloat is important as it is a way of working with individuals who may struggle with access to the arts industry and introducing them to a creative programme that promotes social change, diversity and equality.

“I aim to support Asylum Link members to compose a piece of theatre and integrate it into individuals’ life’s, with the theatre having a base issue to educate. Art does many things it helps individuals gain confidence, learn about themselves and the community they lived in, It’s a platform that can give people a voice.”

Rory Goldring, Liverpool Project Lead for Action Asylum, said:

“It has been brilliant watching this drama group take shape. I have seen the participants’ eyes light up at the prospect of being asked, ‘what message do you want to share with the audience?’… ‘what do you think local people need to know about migration, borders and the asylum system?’… and ‘what do you think is important about art and life more broadly?’.

“Many of the participants have rich skills in the arts and communication. In the context of a hostile environment that denies people the opportunity to live freely and creatively, it’s great to see these people’s skills be drawn on and developed into a piece of art that can change things.”

Afloat will be performed on 21 and 22 June 2024 at Liverpool Lighthouse in Anfield. Tickets are free.

***Please note that the performance will contain reference to themes that some audience may find upsetting, including reference to death and experiences of war.***