The Sydney Russell School was visited by the ARC Theatre Company on Friday 15th April when they delivered a series of performances and workshops based on the issues surrounding encounters between the Police and young people in Barking and Dagenham. The focus of the production was `Stop and Search’ and `Stop and Account’ trying to raise awareness of and exploring the differences between them. The programme was designed to help young people understand why the Police use these procedures and why young people are stopped more regularly and what behaviours might cause young people to be stopped. The production gave the Year 8’s some tips on how to behave during a stop in order to ensure that no offences are committed as a result of the procedure itself.

The three lively performances followed the arguments and events surrounding Police Officers carrying out ‘Stop and Search’ in the local area. Students were asked questions and invited to take part in a number of different scenarios during the workshops at the end of each session. The whole of Year 8 were involved and sensible advice was given about knowing your rights and how best to conduct yourself if and when you are stopped and questioned by the local Police.

“The performance was good because it involved us as students; especially since it was funny, the information given was memorable.” Riley J. 

“The actor playing Marvin was excellent and it helped me understand the difference between Stop and Search and Stop and Account.” Grace R.

“I really enjoyed the performance, especially as I was able to participate and act as the Police Officer.” Tilly H.

“The actors were excellent, so much so that I believed the roles they were playing. Only at the end of the performance when they revealed they were actors, did I realise who they were.” Frank W.