the barrio project
the play
Walk into the barrio and watch family drama unfold, surrounded by the music, sport and language that characterises something of a Latin American cultural experience in London.
"Barrio" is a term used by some in the Latin American community to refer to a '[neighbour]hood'. Set on a council estate in the London borough of Southwark, the play explores social dynamics and prejudices in ghettos, as experienced and recalled by its community.
Thiago was born in Colombia 25 years ago and moved to South London at the age of 5. He is a first-generation immigrant with English as his first language and considers London as his home - still, identity is the key issue at play in this stimulating drama.
the journey
2021-22
Cultural identity, the migrant experience, family values, friendship, hope are at the centre of this gut-wrenching, witty, thought-provoking family drama - all to the sound of a live DJ and your favourite salsa tunes.
Devised through focus groups and workshops (in November 2021), Barrio is the pilot for a new creative development programme aimed at creating space for diaspora communities in London. For that reason, the impact of this project goes beyond sheer entertainment. Creating and strengthening social bonds (social), engaging with feelings (emotional) and understanding oneself and the world (educational) are the key outcomes for this project. This is of particular importance when considering that the Latin community in the UK is barely represented or celebrated in the arts.
The first settlement of Latin people in Elephant and Castle, London began in the 1980s and the presence of this community is recognised to have been a deciding factor in the commercial and social revitalization of the area. However, the regeneration projects that are currently taking place in the borough of Southwark have been deeply affecting the community, leading to ethnic minorities being displaced and Elephant and Castle becoming a victim of gentrification. Despite many being aware of the presence of the Latin community in the city, the aim of this project is to share their history and experience with those who may not be familiar with the difficulties that the community is encountering.
The show was due to be performed at the VAULT Festival 2022. However, in light of the festival's cancellation due to Covid19, the show debuted at the Temple of Art and Music in April 2022 instead, as part of a 3-day Latin Arts Festival organised by Creative Vortex Productions. The festival also featured emerging Latin musicians, DJs and an art installation provided by SMart Network - a non profit organisation, founded by Jaime Bautista and established to empower socially marginalised people through creative activities.
Production Photos
