Newcastle theatre production calls for better support for sexual assault survivors
No. 9 is on at Alphabetti Theatre this week, and is hoping to change the conversation around trauma and support for victims of sexual assault
A Newcastle theatre designer is hoping her debut play will lead to better aftercare for the victims of sexual assault.
Number 9 is on at Newcastle's Alphabetti theatre this week - following the story of a sexual assault survivor
It aims to raise awareness of the impact of trauma - and the lack of resources many organisations have for responding to victims
While the prevention of sexual assault is widely discussed, No. 9 highlights the lack of focus on long-term support for survivors.
No. 9 turns a mirror on a society that is ill-equipped to respond in the aftermath of trauma and, in particular, the language that is used to support survivors.
Based on a true story, and presented in co-production with Alphabetti Theatre, No. 9 is inspired by the reactions a survivor received when they discussed their assault.
Anna Robinson is the writer, and explains more:
"It's based on my own story, so it's very, very tied within the real world.
"The characters you come across are a bit more grotesque than you would naturally come across in life,
"But that's kind of so you can understand the absurdities of the experience.
"It's such a prevalent issue at the moment, and unfortunately we're not talking about the aftermath of the trauma that is caused, and we're not looking at how we can help as a society - that is - like the establishments like universities, or the Court System and police systems."
Anna tells us she would love to take the play further - and was delighted when Newcastle Central MP, Chi Onwurah came to watch the production.
She explains they would love to be able to tour the show in universities and other similar organisations, and that resource packs are handed out to the audience, to make sure viewers feel safe and supported by coming to the show.
She adds;
"I really feel like the show we’ve created addresses the issues with a fearless delicacy and a sharp wit.
"These are really important times in terms of women’s safety and the way the world interrogates assault and healing.
"It’s a scary but humbling experience having this platform and time to explore it.
"It’s such a relief to finally be able to get audiences to see and hear the story that I’ve been itching to tell."
No. 9 runs at Alphabetti Theatre until 13/03/22. All tickets are Pay What You Feel.
For more support and resources - you can contact Rape Crisis Tyneside and Northumberland - and more information on the show is available on Twitter.