Four years ago, the European migrant crisis dominated the headlines. Images of migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea in the hopes of escaping life threatening regimes and a poor quality of life in the hopes of starting anew were stark, shocking and eye opening. The media’s coverage of this period, at points unforgiving, demonised those seeking safety. The infamous Calais Jungle would also dominate headlines; the encampment at its peak, home to over 6,000 migrants seeking refuge. Director of Borderline Theatre Company Sophie NL Besse addresses the personal stories of refugees and asylum seekers in her latest show Welcome to the UK. Ahead of the show, Sophie talks about her time delivering workshops at the Calais Jungle, the multi-cultural ensemble consisting of refugees and performers and the show’s satirical aspect.
Initially premiering at Theatre Español, Valencia in 2017, Víctor Sánchez Rodríguez’s pertinent production Cuzco receives its UK debut at Theatre503. The young celebrated playwright’s work explores topics of intimacy within our continually globalised world and the clash between colonial history and commercial tourism. Directed by Kate O’Connor and translated by William Gregory, Cuzco allows for a UK audience to ‘experience the very best of contemporary Spanish playwriting’. Ahead of the show, Kate talks to us about the journey she’s been on with Cuzco, William’s vital role in terms of translating the show and what audiences can expect!