Trojan Horse

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4 November 2019 · Follow on Stagedoor

“Racism, religion, sexuality, politics are all explored in this controversial verbatim play which was first seen in Edinburgh in 2018. Before it opened, it was criticised by a Telegraph journalist who said it was a ‘fiction’ to suggest that there wasn’t an Islamist plot to take over schools in Birmingham – but when that paper’s critic actually saw it, they described it as “less problematic and more rewarding than you might suppose.” It got more enthusiastic compliments than that elsewhere, with the Stage calling it “slick, stylish and vital”.”

Overview

The Trojan Horse Inquiry was a local story that hit the national press, accusing ‘hardline’ Muslim teachers and governors of plotting extremism in Birmingham schools. Drawing on over 200 hours of interviews with teachers, students, parents and governors, critically-acclaimed theatre company LUNG investigates the truth behind the headlines.

Originally developed with Leeds Playhouse, this Amnesty International Freedom of Expression & Fringe First Award-winning production is the story of a community torn apart by racial division, ‘British values’ and the culture of Prevent.

Trojan Horse aims to open up a dialogue, and every performance will be followed by a post-show discussion with Professor John Holmwood, an expert witness at the Trojan Horse trials and author of ‘Countering Extremism in Birmingham Schools? The truth about the Trojan Horse Affair’ and other individuals and groups. Themes will range from Queerness and Religion, Islamophobia in the UK, The Power of the Media, and Education Policy.

LUNG’s previous productions include The 56, Chilcot, E15 and Who Cares.

Age Recommendation: 13+