A 35 minute play, workshop with resource pack which reflects on what it means to be a ‘good neighbour ’in today’s society and the causes, consequences and methods of dealing with, anti social behaviour. (Aimed at years 9 – 11, devised Spring 08)
George Meadows is an 83 year old veteran of the 2nd World War, a man who has firm beliefs in right and wrong, a patriot and an active member of his community . He looks to help and support his neighbours whenever he can, despite the fact that, as far as he is concerned, the values he holds dear have largely disappeared from a community which is increasingly alien to him.
He is also perceived as a racist pervert who has struck up an unhealthy relationship with an 18 year old disabled girl and as the deserved recipient of an ASBO for viciously assaulting a local 14 year old black youth.
Where does the truth lie in a society where fear and paranoia dominate and what does it mean to be a ‘neighbour’ in a world in which intervening in the lives of others can be both problematic and dangerous?
Told in flashback ‘HOOD’ examines the pressures and fears which can lead to otherwise law abiding citizens becoming the very thing they are most repelled and fearful of. It presents a complex picture of a world in which lack of empathy on the part of both the young and old can lead to appalling consequences for all.
Matthew Grainger as George, Kate Joseph as Tina – 2008 Tour
Audience Comments
Teacher/Adult Responses
‘As always a high quality performance that captured the attention of our YP. The workshop provoked interesting and relevant reaction and discussion where young people were asked for their opinion on what was right or wrong and how anti social situations could be handled in a more peaceful way. Brilliant!!’
Bassetlaw Learning Centre, Worksop
‘It was fantastic! Really thought provoking and very topical for today.’
Gedling School, Nottingham
‘Excellent presentation & encouragement with generally difficult to engage youngsters, who have difficulty in understanding what is wanted of them. Also adaptable in allowing the less confident members to support each other in participating. Excellent and thought provoking.’
Marion Head, Unit Leader, Clayfields House Secure Unit, Stapleford
‘The session was fantastic with some very powerful issues explored in a brilliant way… The pupils were on the whole thoroughly engaged and responded very well… Powerful stuff!’
James Burgoyne, Co ordinator of Creative Partnerships and Projects, Brunts School, Mansfield
Student and Teenager Responses
‘It was a brilliant way to show people how to deal with bullying.’
Holgate School, Hucknall
‘I think that this play was really good. And I think that the actors acted really well and they showed us how to deal with situations that happen in our everyday life.’
Valley School, Worksop
‘I think the play was truly fantastic and taught everyone a valuable lesson about neighbourly love and community. The play combined people of an old age and young people. The overall play told us about drugs, racism and disabled people and used examples of these in the play which sent a clear message to me. I am grateful that I got to see the play and would recommend it to other schools. The actors, light and sound team were fantastic and are a credit to schools and young people everywhere. Thank you very much!’
Long Eaton School, Derbyshire
‘It was brilliant and funny I really love it sooooo! Fantastic, thank you. I love it loads please come again. Thank you!’
Clayfields Secure Unit, Stapleford
Special thanks go to Spirita, Arts Council England and the numerous local agencies and individuals which supported this project.
