AN IMMERSIVE performance tackling the risks and dangers facing young people is set to come to Reading next week.
CODE, by urban theatre company Justice in Motion, explores the dangers of knife crime, criminal gangs, and drugs, examining how gangs draw in young people.
It’s aimed at students in Year 6 and above but is also suitable for the whole family, and features a group of urban sports professionals such as trial bike riders, parkour athletes, and dancers.
It was developed with extensive research and inspired by true case studies, reports from relevant charities, and national initiatives aimed at tackling county lines crimes.
The Reading Community Safety Partnership, Create Reading (Cultural Education Partnership), Brighter Futures for Children and Reading Borough Council through the Shared Prosperity Fund are sponsoring the event, which forms part of the Stay True to You campaign developed by the Thames Valley Violence Prevention Partnership.
Karen Rowland, Lead Councillor for Environmental Services and Community Safety at Reading Borough Council, said: “I am so thrilled that we are able to bring Justice in Motion’s CODE performance back to Reading this year.
“Last year’s performance was some of the best and most eye-opening theatre, addressing real-life issues, I’ve seen in years.
“I cannot stress just how entertaining and impactful this theatre experience will be for young people and parents to see.”
She explained: “This free event is an opportunity to engage directly with the young people of Reading who we’re hoping to reach and encourage to make the right choices if confronted with the pressures of the drug world and knife violence in their lives.
“It will be relevant and thought provoking for both parents and children, so please take advantage of these free shows which I promise will be eye-opening, entertaining and educational.
“I firmly believe that every young person in Reading needs to see this; it is just that important.”
Two performances of CODE will be shown at the John Madejski Academy at noon and 3pm on Saturday, October 12.
There is also a performance for schools only on Friday, October 11.
Full details and tickets available via: whatsonreading.com
