Chickenshed Presents 'monolog 2'

Chickenshed's selection of monologues from new writers opened with a gripping preview performance last night. 'monolog ' has its second preview performance tonight before opening on Thursday 14 February and running until Saturday 2 March.

Chickenshed returns to its roots by performing monolog 2 in their intimate new "Shed Theatre space". Performed with minimal staging, monolog 2 will allow the simple and unique power of the written and spoken word to reveal some comic and tragic truths about living.

The seven pieces, selected from a huge number of submissions, shine a light on individual stories and experiences. The subjects of the monologues are hugely varied: a dystopian view of social media over-sharing taken to extremes; youth protest and activism; disability and artistic expression; a poetic and abstract reflection of what it might mean to bring a new life into the world; how it feels to live life on the margins, with only the most fragile of safety nets; life as a second generation immigrant in 21st century Britain; and the candid and honest experience of spending three years in prison.

The monologues:

Even, Odd...Odd, Even by Hannah Smith - Set in a community committed to creating a more open and empathetic society, one young woman struggles to stay true to herself, whilst living within this system.

Face The Strange by Matthew Patenall - Lee plans to attend the protests against Donald Trump's visit to the UK. He is enthralled by the thousands gathered in Trafalgar Square and ponders the nature of protesting and how effective it can be in affecting change in society.

Mirror Me by Wendy Sharer - A young woman dreams of release from the bonds that define her - and while the audience applauds, society continues to ignore.

My Exploding Universe by Milly Rolle - A young woman discovers she is pregnant and begins to navigate the potential ramifications of bringing another human life into the world, especially in these perilous times.

The Hostel Angel by Barbara Bakhurst - Never giving up hope is tough when you're 14 and living on the margins. Sunny keeps a chart to mark the nights spent in her hostel room with her cherished memories and special box of treasures which remind her of Mum.

Stranger by Alesha Bhakoo - Follow the story of a young woman navigating the pitfalls and challenges of living as a second-generation immigrant.

We Are All In It Together by Peter Hastings - A man in his prison cell waits for 'bang-up' at the end of the day. Experience the realities of prison life and the meanderings of a prisoner's mind as he settles down for the night and waits for the door to bang shut.

Box Office 020 8292 9222, email: bookings@chickenshed.org.uk, or book online at www.chickenshed.org.uk