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Bang Up

First radio play by Sarah Hehir, a winner of the ´óÏó´«Ã½ Writer's Prize, inspired by her work in a young offenders' institute. Emma teaches creative writing in a detention centre.

Bang Up by Sarah Hehir

Winner of the first ´óÏó´«Ã½ Writer's Prize.

Emma teaches creative writing in a detention centre . Her life is imploding. Her estranged father contacts her with news of the birth of a baby . Throwing herself into work with the young offenders, new student Lee surprises her with the sensitivity of his writing .

Directed in Salford by Susan Roberts.

45 minutes

Last on

Thu 21 Jan 2016 14:15

´óÏó´«Ã½ Writer's Prize Winner Sarah Hehir

´óÏó´«Ã½ Writer's Prize Winner Sarah Hehir

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On her inspiration for Bang Up…

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I was teaching literacy in a young offenders institute and I knew I wanted to write something about the experience of being there - I just wasn’t quite sure what the story was. The character of Emma is not me, but is obviously influenced by the time I spent teaching in prison. I wanted to write a play that combined the tensions and potential violence of prison (the atmosphere there can turn on a word) with the unexpected tenderness and camaraderie that exists between the guards and the boys.

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People I’ve spoken to make assumptions about prison before they’ve been inside one; their preconceptions seem to be based on media representation and rumour. My experience unravelled my own expectations and prejudice. I think most people who have been inside would agree that it’s a difficult, diverse and complex environment.

Credits

Role Contributor
Writer Sarah Hehir
Lee Samuel Holland
Emma Gillian Kearney
Bruce Simeon Truby
Patrick Paul Sockett
Ray Matt Sutton
SEG Guard Matt Sutton
Ishan Faz Shah
Guard James Quinn
Director Susan Roberts

Broadcasts

  • Thu 8 Aug 2013 14:15
  • Thu 21 Jan 2016 14:15

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