Coming to the Torch Theatre this week, Finding Home is a thought-provoking piece of theatre that explores the many issues faced by homeless people living here in Wales.

The stories told are based on true experiences and life journeys of those who have found themselves without a home for many different reasons and will feature at the Torch Theatre on Tuesday and Wednesday this week. 

Following extensive research and development undertaken with various organisations supporting and raising awareness around homelessness in 2020, Mercury Theatre Wales is delighted to be able to take this production on tour with the support of the Arts Council of Wales. 

Drama is an incredibly powerful medium and a far- reaching platform which can help shine a light on the issues faced by so many vulnerable individuals who have experienced exclusion, trauma, isolation and prejudice. By creating this work, Mercury Theatre Wales hopes that audiences will gain a better understanding of the struggle homelessness can cause for the many individuals, break down preconceptions and stereotypes, and inspire them to have a better outlook on other people instead of just judging them on situational circumstances. 

Alongside the play, there are a number of community workshops that are being delivered across Milford Haven and Cardiff that will formulate the pre-show street like theatre events happening each evening before the main event.

These community workshops include participants with learning disabilities from Hijinx West Academy, Mess up the Mess theatre company, Torch Youth Theatre, homeless organisations such as Emmaus and Pembrokeshire Care. Oasis a refuge and asylum centre from Cardiff and surrounding areas, as well as other local networks in Milford Haven. 

The play, devised by the company, written by Artistic Director Bethan Morgan and directed by Lynn Hunter, assisted by David Prince, will appear at the Torch Theatre on Tuesday 2 May and Wednesday 3 May at 7.30pm. 

Artistic Director of Mercury Theatre Wales and writer of Finding Home, Bethan Morgan said:

“The title of the project ‘Finding Home’ really represents both the subject matter of our play and also what we hope is the effect of the involvement of our participants in the project as a whole. Inclusion, integration and empowerment all lead to gaining a sense of belonging, self-worth and achievement for people both with and without a permanent home. The piece is also created to give us all a better understanding of the people in the community around us.” 

The main cast includes actors Rhys Downing, Nick Hywell, Bethan Morgan, Nia Ann, Sarah Pugh, Rowan Talbot and Mari Izzard. Design is by Carl Davies with projections designed by Jorge Lizalde and music composition by Rowan Talbot. 

Tickets can be purchased from the Torch Theatre Box Office on 01646 695267 or visit torchtheatre.co.uk.