Anti-bullying production visits schools for Hate Crime Awareness Week

A powerful anti-bullying theatre production ‘OUTLOUD’ is visiting schools across Tameside as part of Greater Manchester Hate Crime Awareness Week on 3-9 February.

Funded by Tameside Council’s Community Safety Partnership, the production and workshop are designed to educate Key Stage 3 students about bullying and hate crime while sparking meaningful conversations.

The play draws from real interviews with young people across Greater Manchester, ensuring its themes resonate with students. Writer Adam Zane collaborated closely with the Outloud LGBTQ+ Youth Group in Tameside, incorporating their voices and experiences into the script.

After the performance, students participate in interactive workshops, providing a supportive space to explore their thoughts and emotions. The workshops provide students with practical guidance on how their language can harm others, what qualifies as inappropriate language, and its implications.

With a proven track record, OUTLOUD tackles issues such as homophobia, bullying, and discrimination while empowering young LGBTQ+ people. The production celebrates diversity and highlights LGBTQ+ role models to inspire students.

Tameside Council Executive Member for Towns, Transport and Connectivity Cllr Stephen Homer said: “Theatre and discussion is an excellent way to reach and impact our younger people - the workshop can provide so much support and guidance for modern life and what is deemed appropriate.

“It is important we educate younger students on issues that are prominent today, we want to equip them to handle situations that may occur and know where to go for help.”

Diane King, the group’s leader, shared: “The young people felt listened to and heard. It ensures the play reflects current issues, voiced by young people.”

Jo Tidbury, Headteacher at Copley Academy, praised the project: “OUTLOUD delivers an engaging play and workshop that students can relate to on a personal level whilst helping them to understand their responsibility for calling out discrimination. Well-written, well-acted, and well-organised”

For more information on OUTLOUD or Hive North Group visit https://www.hivenorth.co.uk/