Театральный проект «Kindness in Motion» исследует влияние детского буллинга на взрослую жизнь

Kindness in Motion shines a light on the lifelong impact of childhood bullying By Trish Lee Kindness in Motion: Babushka, at The Old Library, on Saturday, August 29. Review by Amy Trigwell-Jones. We were treated to a rehearsed reading at The Old Library, where ideas, creativity and storytelling came together in a piece still finding its shape. Babushka, written and performed by Suzanne Pearson, founder of Babushka, and presented by Kindness in Motion, is a deeply personal and thought-provoking piece exploring childhood trauma, bullying, kindness and the lasting impact our experiences can have as we move into adulthood. Kindness in Motion uses storytelling and community conversation to shine a light on the lifelong impact of childhood bullying. The play begins with Suzanne delivering a presentation about kindness, exploring not only what kindness means but also the science behind it and the ways it can affect our brains. However, the presentation gradually starts to take on a life of its own. Technology glitches, a voice interrupts Suzanne, and what begins as a straightforward presentation becomes a confrontation with her past. The voice belongs to 15, confidently played by Isabella Goldsmith, who brings a lovely understanding, expression and presence to the role. Through 15, Suzanne is forced to revisit memories and stories from her childhood and begin to explore whether the trauma we experience as children continues to travel with us into adulthood. One of the most beautifully told moments is the story of Suzanne at six years old, being pushed down a shale tip by a bully. The ruined dress, physical hurt and distress are brought to life alongside the painful recollection of the coldness and neglect she experienced from her mother. Suzanne bares all in this performance, revisiting difficult moments from her own life with honesty and courage. There is something particularly powerful about watching someone take ownership of these experiences and use them as a way of exploring healing and moving forward. There is still plenty of development needed within the piece, but that is also what makes this stage of the process so exciting. The decision to share the rehearsed reading with an audience and then invite us to offer feedback, ideas and responses was a real strength. It allowed the audience to become part of the creative development rather than simply watching from the sidelines. It is wonderful to see the Old Library being used as a space for this kind of creative development, experimentation and sharing. Babushka has a powerful story at its heart, and I look forward to seeing how Suzanne and the team continue to shape and develop it.