A survivor of domestic abuse has written a play exploring the realities of women who suffer abuse by their husband or partner.
Irene Stuart wrote ‘No Way Out’ six years ago as a means to get messages out to women that there's a way out of an abusive relationship despite the hurdles they can face. The play faced setbacks due to illness and other projects and now it's ready for the stage.
Due to a rise in domestic abuse calls to police and support agencies during Covid-19 lockdowns and England's run to the Euro 2020 final, 2021 Irene was given a new impetus to get the play performed. The play is part of the six-day Leverhulme Drama Festival at the Gladstone Theatre, Port Sunlight - from April 4 until April 9.
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Statistics show domestic abuse increases after teams lose (up 38%) but also after a win too (up 26%) driven by various factors. But campaigners say it must be remembered that women suffer abuse every day.
Women’s Aid defines domestic abuse as ‘an incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading and violent behaviour, including sexual violence. In the vast majority of cases it is experienced by women and perpetrated by men who are usually their partner, ex partner, relative or carer.'
Irene told the ECHO : "I’ve tried to incorporate all behaviours mentioned. In my experience, and of other victims I’ve spoken to, the perpetrator generally displays more than one of the said behaviours."
She added: "The play pulls no punches regarding physical and mental abuse experienced by Lisa (Alice McKillop) at the hands of her husband Martin (Paul Taylor) and at times is difficult to watch. This is exactly what I want an audience to see as victims often cannot find the words to express to others, especially family and friends, what they’ve been subjected to”.
The play, based on real experiences, is largely a work of fiction reflecting real issues faced by many women. About Lisa, Irene said: "Lisa's best friend Sadie (Charlotte Beaumont) suspects things aren't going too well in the relationship but Lisa always denies this as victims tend to do."
Director Abbey Izabella Fitzhenry said: "Directing such a sensitive piece has been a challenge. I want to keep the piece as natural as possible and shine a light on the positive impact of supportive friendships.
"Domestic abuse and violence towards women is a global issue which we hope we have covered sensitively and honestly. I hope our message will be heard.”
Perpetrator, Martin, (Paul Taylor) said: "It’s interesting playing a character that’s so far removed from me. Playing a violent and abusive character has given me an insight into how some men treat their partners as their property”.
The victim Lisa (Alice McKillop) said: "No Way Out’ has been a fantastic acting challenge which I was delighted to take on and I want to do justice to some of the real life stories Irene based the play on. The play will hopefully spread awareness by highlighting the signs to look out for if you think a loved one is being abused".
Irene concluded: "I prefer to produce plays which examine current issues and give the audience food for thought. If just one audience member recognises Lisa in herself, or in a friend and the victim escapes an abusive relationship, I will be a very happy writer.
“If just one male audience member recognises Martin in himself and stops the abuse, how fantastic would that be”.
‘No Way Out’ is on April 7 from 7.30pm. For ticket information for all performances, visit the Gladstone Theatre website.
