Hard-hitting play exploring knife crime and youth exploitation on tour
A play is helping children learn of the dangers of knife crime, drug dealing and exploitation.
The play, called A Sense of Belonging, is touring Wolverhampton schools and youth centres.
It looks at how a group of young people deal with the tide of knife violence alongside the problem of drug dealing across county lines.
WATCH a trailer for the play here:
The production, performed by Gazebo Theatre in Education based in Bilston, is funded by the Active Citizen's Fund and West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner.
Officials say the interactive play centres around four characters and examines how they became drawn into these situations.
Their decisions and risks are analysed and these themes and the legalities are discussed afterwards.
Pamela Cole-Hudson, director and co-writer of the play and chief executive at Gazebo, said: "The reaction has been amazing so far.
"We've been capturing the audience's knowledge before and after the show and analysing that so we can demonstrate how much they've learnt from it.
"The young people are also given an opportunities to how we can tackle youth crime in the city and how we can prevent it."
The play targets those not involved with the issues raised, those at risk and those who are involved and where to find help and support.
It also aims to inform parents and teachers to spot the signs of grooming and exploitation.
Pamela added: "We work closely with the community, so this came about through our awareness of what the local issues are.
"Given the rise in the number of younger people becoming involved in youth violence, we believe we have a way of engaging and educating them so we can prevent their involvement."
The play is free of charge and suitable for those aged 10 and over.
'A Sense of Belonging' will be at St Chad's Church, Bilston, on August 6 at 2.30pm.
To book a place call 01902 497222.
