The Hal Company, in association with Suzanna Rosenthal Productions, presents the world premiere of Penned Up, a new play by award-winning playwright Danusia Iwaszko, touring the UK this autumn.
Drawing on over 15 years of experience teaching playwriting in prisons, Iwaszko’s Penned Up offers a powerful and unflinching look at life behind bars.
Described as “Porridge meets Brassed Off,” the play is a laugh riot and a gut-punch in equal measure. Witty, raw and full of heart, Penned Up is a celebration of storytelling, second chances, and the unexpected bonds that form in the most unlikely places.
Set in HMP Ditchfield, the story follows a group of prisoners who meet weekly to write their own plays. From boxing rings to the Brazilian rainforest, their stories span painful pasts and wildly imaginative futures.
As creativity clashes with control, tensions rise, secrets unravel, and laughter gives way to rebellion. The play asks: can words be the greatest escape?
The cast includes Ntabiso Bhebhe, Chris Clarkson, Geir Madland, Heydn McCabe, Shelley McDonald, Ashton Owen, Rebecca Peyton and Liam Watson.
The creative team features Writer and Director Danusia Iwaszko, Designer Madeleine Roberts, and Lighting Designer Tim Westerman.
Penned Up will tour to venues across the UK including Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds, Greenwich Theatre, New Wolsey Theatre Ipswich, The Garage Norwich, and Arcola Theatre London. The production will also visit prisons including HMP Hollesley Bay and HMP Highpoint.
Danusia Iwaszko said:
“Theatre is more than words on a page – it’s a lifeline, a way to reclaim your voice.”
Penned Up is produced by The Hal Company CIO in association with Suzanna Rosenthal Productions, with support from Arts Council England and a host of regional and charitable partners.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
