Award-winning director David Thacker's new play gives a voice to domestic abuse survivors in their own words.
The former Bolton Octagon artistic director returns to the Kings Arms, Salford (March 19-23) with That Can't Have Happened, created from transcripts of conversations with five survivors of domestic abuse.
The five have been supported by Bolton-based domestic abuse charity Fortalice, and agreed to their words being used
Fortalice provides services for victims of domestic abuse, including refuge for women and children. Its chief executive, Gill Smallwood arranged for David to meet five women and record their conversations, which he then edited.
David explained: “I was astonished by the generosity and courage of the five extraordinary women who trusted me to help their voices be heard. They have been an inspiration to me and to the actors, who have committed themselves to expressing their pain, fear, love and hope.”
David has again joined Lisa Connor at the King's Arms, following the success there of his previous productions of American Buffalo and Faith Healer. “I’m thrilled to welcome David back to The Kings Arms and to continue our collaboration as we try to produce high quality theatre on a shoestring," said Lisa.
“We are extremely grateful to the University of Greater Manchester for sponsoring and demonstrating their commitment to Fortalice by enabling us to engage a cast of five outstanding actors.
“The trust Fortalice has shown us is remarkable. I know David and the actors will repay that trust as they share the struggles and achievements of these five very special women.”
The cast is Vicky Binns (Emmerdale and Coronation Street); Isabel Ford (Emmerdale, Coronation Street, Hollyoaks); Bel Odawa; Eve Steele (Casualty, Coronation Street) and Flo Wilson (Emmerdale and others).
More info and tickets here