University News Last updated 12 November 2014
Students from Birmingham School of Acting (BSA), part of Birmingham City University, are to highlight the issues affecting Birmingham's urban youngsters in a hard-hitting new production next month.
Created by a group of second-year students, 'Dem Boyz' uses a fusion of art forms including spoken word, music, dance and physical theatre to engage audiences and explore gang association amongst dissatisfied young adults growing up in the inner city.
"Gang-related crime is a very real and current concern in Birmingham for young people and we hope to raise awareness amongst our young audiences as well as the wider community," said Hannah Phillips, Director of 'Dem Boyz' and Course Director of Applied Performance (Community and Education) at BSA.
"These are issues which concern us all. Communities need to work together to safeguard and empower young people. Incorporating issues of youth violence, drug addiction, sexual exploitation and mental health, Dem Boyz has been positively received across Birmingham, with local schools and colleges booking tickets for their students."
Public performances of Dem Boyz take place at The Drum on Thursday 4 and Friday 5 December at 7.30pm. School performances take place on Wednesday 3 December (1.30pm), Thursday 4 December (10.30am), and Friday 5 December (1.30pm). For more information and to book tickets, visit The Drum's website or call +44 (0)121 333 2400.