Jersey Arts Centre was approached by Brighter Futures back in 2013 to assist in finding a way to tell the unique – and sometimes hard-hitting – stories of a number of its clients.

The first project was 18 months in development and resulted in a play entitled: what are we going to do with all our children? which was written and performed by 13 incredible women from the organisation.

In a series of writing tasks and challenges, using stream-of-consciousness writing, the participants re-tell and craft some of their life stories into a 50-70 minute theatre piece.

Lockdown was tough on all of us and the process gave us support and something to look forward to… All our ideas and suggestions were valued… Life changing and an incredible boost to confidence… I felt brave and strong and like I could take on the world…

– Participant / there's something happening

It was very therapeutic to get my thoughts, emotions and feelings – and deeply emotional experiences – down on paper, out of my head… I was totally out of my comfort zone and loved every minute of it…

– Participant / there's something happening

We were able to tell our stories: this gave our negative experiences a sense of purpose and an excellent release… amazing! I felt like a star and was looked after and treated…

– Participant / there's something happening

Amazing! Didn’t know I could write. Thanks for the best time. We’ve all had a ball. We’ve all grown so much… Thanks for helping us feel amazing again through the stage and the power of words…

– Participant / there's something happening

I love the workshops and how we are encouraged to achieve our best – and to move from our comfort zones. I like how free the workshops make me feel. I can be myself and feel I can be who I want to be… when I am in the workshop I feel safe… I absolutely loved the show night: so much excitement, suspense and nerves all rolled into one moment…

– Participant / no place like

Previous productions include:

  • there’s something happening / 2022
  • no place like / 2019
  • conference of the mermaids / 2018
  • i’d rather not know / 2016
  • what are we going to do with all our children? / 2014

Brighter Futures is a Jersey Charity based at The Bridge. It works in partnership with Parenting Support Services to meet the needs of families and young people.

For more information, please visit: brighterfutures.org.je