Hidden

Hidden is an interactive performance focusing on domestic abuse. It looks at the impact on those experiencing abuse and on the different agencies and members of the community who may become involved, such as the Police, education staff and health professionals.

The play follows a family from the moment a couple move in together, through the man’s increasingly abusive behaviour, up until the potential disclosure of the abuse by the couple’s fifteen year old daughter.

Their story is presented through a series of facilitated scenes. Periodically the action is stopped and the audience invited to consider relevant questions relating to the characters that they have been watching. In this way, the play looks at a number of questions which either explore the thoughts and feelings of certain characters at particular moments, or asks more practical questions which look for specific advice for one or more of the characters.

The actors wear masks and the production uses the technique of mask-lifting, enabling the audience to gain insight into what might be happening for different characters behind their public faces. The production is highly interactive which ensures that audience members engage fully with the issues that are being explored while allowing them to remain safely in their seats.

The performance is intended to provoke debate and discussion amongst the audience and is designed to raise questions rather than provide answers.

"I found the play very moving and thought provoking and that the actors had an excellent understanding of the complex issues faced by individuals living with domestic violence… The audience experienced a heightened awareness of the subject and some stated that they would change some of their practices as a result."

Jo Purdy Freelance Domestic Violence Trainer

"Thought provoking, powerful, relevant and very emotional"

Delegate, Gosport Domestic Abuse Forum