Powerful theatre piece created to explore negative effects of domestic abuse during lockdown

New Vic Borderlines the award-winning Staffordshire based initiative using theatre in social contexts are bringing their show Love Hurts back on a community tour following increased reports of domestic violence through the coronavirus lockdowns.

Created in partnership with Staffordshire Police, Love Hurts? is a powerful play that has been created in conjunction with young people who have experienced harmful and damaging relationships.

The documentary drama explores the nature of teenage relationships and the power dynamics which exist in relationships, to challenge a culture where ‘love’ may be expressed through manipulation, exploitation and abuse. It will be performed in the New Vic Studio on Friday 18 March, as well as embarking on a community tour across schools and colleges.

Each performance of Love Hurts? in the community will be followed by a forum theatre workshop, allowing the audience to get involved and contribute changes to the storyline to address the issues the characters face. At New Vic performances there will be the opportunity to take part in a Q&A after the show.

New Vic Borderlines Director Susan Moffat said:

“Love Hurts? is a timely, powerful and important documentary drama that allows audiences to explore the dynamics of close relationships and the forms that abuse can take. The play was created in partnership with Staffordshire Police and with young people who have experienced abuse and coercive control in their relationships.

According to the National Survey on Teen Relationships and Intimate Violence, more than 60 per cent of teens said they had experienced physical, sexual and/or emotional abuse by someone they were dating or were in a relationship with. Abuse in relationships has an effect on emotional health and well-being, can affect the ability to achieve and enjoy life and can result in serious physical and psychological harm.

We are delighted to be able to tour this play into a number of local schools, colleges and universities, and play our part in making sure that local young people know where and how to access support and recognise that real love never hurts.”

Public performances of Love Hurts? will be performed in the New Vic Studio on Friday 18 March at 7.00pm. Tickets are on sale now and can be bought via the Box Office on 01782 717 962 or online at newvictheatre.org.uk.

It will also be on a community tour from 18 March 2022.

For more information on this project please contact Adhia Mahmood at amahmmod@newvictheatre.org.uk.