8 Hours There and Back

‘It’s the family that’s got to live with it on the outside and the outside...is a lot...bigger.’

There are things they want to say, things they want us to hear, to understand, to acknowledge, to change.

It is estimated that over 300,000 children are affected by parental imprisonment in the UK.

This verbatim performance shares the testimonies of children who have had a parent sent to prison. It examines a child's world when they are plunged into a new reality of prison visits, social workers, timed telephone calls, judgements, loss of contact and questions, lots of questions.

Co Created by All Things Considered Theatre, Time Matters UK, Families Outside, Out There and The Unity Theatre.

8 HOURS THERE AND BACK was performed to sold out audiences at The Unity Theatre in February 2022. Part of this involved a training session for those working with children: Social Workers, Teachers and Journalists. These people were identified by the children we worked with when we asked “Who needs to hear your story?”

8 Hours will be touring in Autumn 2023 to venues and to universities working and training the next generation of Teachers, Social Workers, Journalists and Prison Officers.

If you are interested in the tour please contact emmaallthingstc@gmail.com to request a Tour Pack.

written & directed by emma bramley & sarah hogarth

sound design : stephen Hull

Assistant Producer: Rhianna Swyer

Assistant DIRECTOR: RORY ARRON

CHOREOGRAPHY: JEN REES

“8 Hours There & Back is an intentionally thought-provoking show. The actors repeatedly ask how we feel listening to their stories, knowing nothing can be done. It is the hope of those involved that this show will inspire change by giving voice to those left outside, when their parents are put inside.Arts City Liverpool.”

North West End