Trojan Horse at Oldham Coliseum

Kristy Stott, Theatre Editor

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Trojan Horse

Oldham Coliseum, Manchester
6-7 February 2020

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Trojan Horse at Oldham Coliseum
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In Trojan Horse, the critically acclaimed LUNG Theatre excavate the truth behind the 2014 UK government inquiry of the same name. Operation Trojan Horse was a local real-life news story that hit the national press – it accused ‘hardline’ Muslim teachers and governors of plotting extremism within state schools in Birmingham. We’re thrilled that this sharp and urgent performance comes to Oldham Coliseum this February. Proud recipient of the Amnesty International Freedom of Expression Award and the Fringe First Award – if you haven’t seen the show before – now is your chance.

Originally developed with Leeds Playhouse, Trojan Horse is the story of a community torn apart by racial division, ‘British values’ and the culture of Prevent.

Trojan Horse is the story of a community torn apart by racial division.

Revealing the damage caused to communities in Birmingham, this incisive verbatim performance is adapted from over 200 interviews, with 90 different people, conducted over two years. Focusing on five central characters, the play uses real quotes from the pupils, teachers, governors, politicians and parents who were directly affected by the inquiry.

This intelligent production by LUNG’s Matt Woodhead and Helen Monks focuses on the voices of a Muslim teacher, a concerned local councillor, a struggling GCSE student and an outraged headteacher. Weaving these personal perspectives together, the performers, in school uniforms, add hijabs, headscarves and jackets as they move fluidly between the different characters.

This incisive verbatim performance is adapted from over 200 interviews, with 90 different people, conducted over two years.

As well as uncovering the unheard voices behind the sensational and damaging headlines, Trojan Horse also illuminates suggestions of institutionalised racism within Westminster and Parliament. Using the true accounts of what happened at Park View Educational Trust as a representation of a larger and more urgent problem, Trojan Horse also succeeds in offering a thought-provoking and boldly political exploration of identity and belonging in Britain today.

Accessibility

  • Parent and Baby

Where to go near Trojan Horse at Oldham Coliseum

Oldham
Event venue
Hack Oldham

Hack Oldham is an event space that also offers co-working, community groups and crafting in the heart of Oldham.

Gallery Oldham, in Oldham Cultural Quarter
Manchester
Museum
Gallery Oldham

Gallery Oldham provides a wide range of exhibitions and activities targeted at different audiences of all ages within Oldham and the surrounding area.

The Yoga Seed Oldham
Manchester
The Yoga Seed Oldham

The Yoga Seed is an intimate studio just outside of Oldham town centre. Run by Sharon it offers small classes including a men only class.

Liverpool
Hotel
Epic Apart Hotel

The Epic Apart Hotel offers 14 serviced apartments – and right righin the middle of the Ropewalks district, right behind FACT.

Theatre
Middleton Arena

The Arena has a regular programme of arts and entertainment including live music, concerts, comedy and dances with stage shows and national tours. With two licensed bars this is the perfect location for a great night out.

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