In Plain Sight was a site specific promenade performance, with food, about street homelessness, performed at the B arts building in Stoke-on-Trent in early 2020.

Created by prison arts specialists Rideout (Creative Arts for Rehabilitation) in partnership with Stoke’s longstanding participatory arts organisation, B arts, the piece was commissioned by Voices of Stoke-on-Trent who are responsible for co-ordinating services for rough sleepers across Stoke-on-Trent.

The brief for the commission was to create an interactive, engaging piece of theatre (with songs!) that exposed some of the myths of homelessness and rough sleeping as well as exploring some of the factors that might inhibit an individual’s ability to access support when it is offered. Devised and performed by a cast of six, the content of In Plain Sight was directly informed by upwards of 50 anonymised case studies and in depth interviews with three people with lived experience of long-term street homelessness. These three individuals were also part of the final performance, working ‘in plain sight’ as ushers to help guide people around the building. Their involvement was only revealed at the end of the show, when large banners with their faces dropped down, and they made short statements attesting to the small things that members of the public can do to help those living on the streets.

Next Phases:

The impact of this show has exceeded all expectations. The commissioners, Voices of Stoke-on-Trent, were thrilled by the work and there have been discussions about possible performances in other suitable spaces and/or adaptation for conference and training events. Of course, these will all be subject to funding.

Image Credit Natalie Willatt

Feedback:

“Tonight we visited Stoke on Trent to watch In Plain Sight. A powerful, emotive performance following the journeys of two individuals experiencing #multipedisadvantage. Challenging stigma and highlighting the need for systemic change”

“The whole performance was incredible; a truly thought-provoking piece...I went to see it yesterday, and haven't stopped reflecting over it."

“The play is beautifully acted and articulately woven together. This isn’t a lecture, nor is it an in-depth political discussion. It is a frank portrayal and retelling of true stories… The show is not always comfortable watching, but there are elements of joy and hope as well. I would recommend this show to anyone, yes even on a weekend where a storm is predicted. It isn’t just about appreciating what we have but walking in someone’s else’s shoes and understanding how we all have a role to play in improving others' lives.” – Mel Osborne, Reviewer for The Sentinel

“Even on a very cold February evening, this performance was hugely captivating, keeping the attention of the entire audience throughout… The lighting and sound production were impeccable, and I was really impressed at the production standards for a promenade performance with no compromise made in any of the four performance spaces.” Arts Council England Assessor.