Beyond Caring at HOME, preview: The stories of an invisible class

Beyond Caring comes to HOME, to show us the harsh realities of life in unstable employment.

Zero hour contracts are becoming more commonplace, bringing with them insecurity, low pay, and no guarantee of work. But what are the emotional and physical effects of low-paid work? Alexander Zeldin’s critically acclaimed play Beyond Caring – which comes to HOME 13-16 July – explores the isolation, exploitation and trepidation faced by four cleaners working the nightshift in a meat factory.

There is humour and sadness, but foremost there is work

Against the stark and soulless backdrop of the factory in the early hours, the cast give a realistic and somewhat unsettling performance. With many silences, Zeldin’s narrative is led by the smallest of gestures, as the group struggle to find the courage and humanity to finish their shift. Although they are in this together, spending hours every night in each other’s company, their isolation is never greater. This play depicts the struggle of every-day life when money is sparse – there is humour and sadness, but foremost there is work.

First performed at the Yard Theatre, London, and subsequently at the National Theatre, Beyond Caring received glowing reviews. The Stage said it has “drive and purpose and a social conscience”. Don’t miss Beyond Caring – this stand out production is at HOME for four nights only.