Four years after the phenomenal success of their debut play ‘Phoenix‘ – praised by critics, industry peers and audiences alike – The Big House is re-staging the play that launched them in 2013 in memory of one of the original cast members. Now re-imagined and recast, but true to the original premise, ‘Phoenix Rising’ will run from the 8th November to the 2nd December in the underground car park of London’s iconic Smithfield Meat Market.
You can’t control Callum. You can’t help him. You can’t catch him, so quick are his feet.
Written by Andrew Day, ‘Phoenix Rising’ follows the first steps of an 18-year-old leaving care – steps that lead him straight into poverty, bad company and the constant attacks of his worst enemy: himself. Out on the track, he is untouchable. No-one can get near him. But when his wings start to fail him, he will have to face his demons, to make one final flight. ‘Phoenix Rising’ explores this raw and bitter truth, and the hard road to a hopeful future.
The Big House has a simple mission: to enable care leavers and at-risk young people to fulfil their potential. Through our intensive programmes, The Big House uses drama, life and employment skills, counselling and wrap-around long-term support to develop emotional well-being and enable marginalised young people to live independently. Each project culminates in a three-week run of a full-scale theatre production.
Developed by the young people with a professional writer, The Big House productions explore imagination and collective experience, raise awareness of the challenges these young people face, and provide a platform for their voices to be heard.
