For six years, a collection of poems, monologues and short scenes sat unfinished, waiting for its moment.
Now, theatre practitioner and founder of Necessary Arts, Penelope Spencer, is bringing that work to life on stage through Women and Children First, a production inspired by the violence, loss and trauma experienced by women and children in society.
The idea was born out of heartbreak and frustration.
Spencer said she was deeply affected by reports of domestic violence, suicides, murders, rapes and the disappearance of young girls.
“Women and children first came from my heart,” she said. “After seeing the disregard for the women and children in this society, I felt compelled to write something.”
As she reflected on the phrase traditionally associated with protection and priority, she realised how distant society had become from that ideal.
“Women and children were victims, collateral damage, innocent bystanders,” she said.
Writing became her outlet. She poured her emotions into a collection aimed at empowering women and children, with support from friends Dawad Philip and Mary Cuffy. Although plans to publish the work as a book were eventually put on hold, the issues that inspired it never went away.
“Years later it pains me to see nothing has changed. The same thing keeps happening again and again,” Spencer said.
Determined to ensure the message was heard, she transformed the unfinished book into a theatrical production for the 37th cycle of Necessary Arts.
The show will be staged at the Little Carib Theatre on July 5 from 6.30 pm and features performers ranging in age from six to 80 years old.
Describing the production as “a cry” as well as a celebration of life, Spencer said audiences can expect a mix of education, spirituality, comedy and powerful storytelling.
“This show is passion. It’s educational, spiritual, it’s comedy, it’s life,” she said.
