Theatre in Education

'The Journey' is forum theatre, aimed at P6 pupils. There is audience participation throughout the play, where the pupils are invited to make certain decisions and be involved in role-play. Key road safety messages in the play are: walking and cycling safely to school; transition from primary to secondary school and peer pressure when crossing the road.

The play looks at the developing relationships between a group of friends as they pass from primary 6 and 7, into secondary school and the state of adolescence. Jack, Kirsty, Ronny and Paula discover a hide-out on their way to school - a disused railway arch beside a busy road. They can pull back the corrugated iron fence and enter into a secret and secluded world that belongs to them only. In this place they confide in each other, have a good laugh and try to understand and come to terms with the changes that affect them.

As they grow older they experience more freedom and begin to stay out later in the evenings, going further afield. The lack of parental control is not always accompanied by the sense of responsibility it requires, and when a new kid, Mike, stumbles into the gang's secret place the balance and behaviour of the group is thrown into disarray. Loyalties are challenged, boasts are made and a feeling of bravado permeates the group.

Target Audience

P6

Running Time

1 hour 30 minutes

Resources

A support pack for this play has been developed, which links to Expressive Arts – Drama 5-14 National Guidelines. The materials can be downloaded by clicking here. 

It is recommended that the P6 class which watches the play disseminates the key road safety messages to the rest of the school. For further information contact your local Road Safety Unit.