When crime and punishment come into play, the concept of homecoming often takes a backseat, but decarceration and re-entry are crucial aspects of the justice system. A Giant on the Bridge, a new gig-theatre piece created by singer-songwriter Jo Mango and theatre-maker Liam Hurley, tackles these subjects head-on.
The project was born out of research into people's experiences upon release from prison, revealing shocking statistics about those who struggle to reintegrate back into society. Research associate Phil Crockett Thomas says that the process often focuses on societal issues rather than individual circumstances, highlighting the need for better support systems and job opportunities.
A Giant on the Bridge features a diverse ensemble of Scottish musicians performing songs co-written by people with first-hand experience of the prison system. One standout song, Bars and Multicoloured Chairs, was written by someone nearing the end of their sentence, capturing the complex emotions associated with release. The show's power lies in its plurality of voices, which create a rich tapestry of storytelling.
Theatre-maker Hurley praises the cast for bringing their unique identities to the performance, making it an intimate and engaging experience. "It's that moment where a live performer is telling a story as themselves, and then they become the character," he says. The show has evolved over time, becoming more confident in its own shape while still retaining its sensitivity.
One of the most striking aspects of A Giant on the Bridge is its ability to tackle tough subjects like decarceration without offering simplistic answers. Instead, it provides a space for audiences to listen, feel, and sit with discomfort. As Hurley puts it, "We can't all talk at the same time, but we can all sing at the same time." The show's message is clear: we need to work together to address the complex issues surrounding homecoming.
As A Giant on the Bridge tours Scotland, it offers a unique opportunity for audiences to engage with these critical topics in a thought-provoking and emotionally charged way. Will you be singing along?
The project was born out of research into people's experiences upon release from prison, revealing shocking statistics about those who struggle to reintegrate back into society. Research associate Phil Crockett Thomas says that the process often focuses on societal issues rather than individual circumstances, highlighting the need for better support systems and job opportunities.
A Giant on the Bridge features a diverse ensemble of Scottish musicians performing songs co-written by people with first-hand experience of the prison system. One standout song, Bars and Multicoloured Chairs, was written by someone nearing the end of their sentence, capturing the complex emotions associated with release. The show's power lies in its plurality of voices, which create a rich tapestry of storytelling.
Theatre-maker Hurley praises the cast for bringing their unique identities to the performance, making it an intimate and engaging experience. "It's that moment where a live performer is telling a story as themselves, and then they become the character," he says. The show has evolved over time, becoming more confident in its own shape while still retaining its sensitivity.
One of the most striking aspects of A Giant on the Bridge is its ability to tackle tough subjects like decarceration without offering simplistic answers. Instead, it provides a space for audiences to listen, feel, and sit with discomfort. As Hurley puts it, "We can't all talk at the same time, but we can all sing at the same time." The show's message is clear: we need to work together to address the complex issues surrounding homecoming.
As A Giant on the Bridge tours Scotland, it offers a unique opportunity for audiences to engage with these critical topics in a thought-provoking and emotionally charged way. Will you be singing along?
. I mean, we need more stories like this being shared on stage. It's not just about the music or the performances, it's about giving a voice to people who have been silenced for too long. The way the show brings together different voices and perspectives is gonna be incredible. And you're right, it's not about offering easy answers, but about sparking conversations and making us feel uncomfortable - because that's where change starts 
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this new gig-theatre piece is giving me LIFE 
I'm low-key obsessed with how it tackles the real talk about decarceration and re-entry 
it's like, we need more of these shows that don't shy away from the hard stuff 
and the fact that it features people with first-hand experience is just 
I love how it creates a rich tapestry of storytelling through its diverse ensemble 
can't wait to see it live 
. Its like, we always talk about how hard it is for ppl to get back into society after serving time, but rarely do we hear from the ppl themselves 
. This show gives a voice to those who have been forgotten or marginalized. The music is amazing too - I love how the songs are co-written with people in the know 
. We need more shows like this that challenge us to listen and understand rather than just shoving a quick fix down our throats 
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I'm all about decarceration & re-entry, it's soooo messed up how society focuses on societal issues rather than individual circumstances...like what's the deal with that?! 
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. It's like, we're so used to simplistic solutions to these tough problems, but A Giant on the Bridge shows us that they don't exist. The show's message - that we need to work together to address the issues surrounding homecoming - is so relatable 
. And I think what Hurley said about all being able to "sing at the same time" really resonates - we need to be able to listen, feel, and sit with discomfort in order to truly address these issues.
. It's not that simple, but A Giant on the Bridge shows us that it can be done with empathy, understanding, and a willingness to listen 
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also, isnt it a bit superficial to say we need to work together if we cant even agree on what's going wrong in the first place 
. The fact that it's created by people who've experienced prison firsthand is truly remarkable - it gives you so much more authenticity than just some theory or research 
. It's like, we're all in this together, and we need to listen to each other's stories before we can start making real change 
. We need more resources for job training programs, mental health services, and social support networks so they don't end up back on the streets in a few months 
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. The more we learn about people's experiences after release, the clearer it is that we need to rethink the whole thing 
. What's crazy is how often society focuses on the big picture instead of individual circumstances 
. We need better support systems and job opportunities for those coming outta prison 
! It's all about plurality of voices, you know? 
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! Can't wait to see A Giant on the Bridge tour Scotland and hear people's thoughts 
but i think its gonna make ppl even more paranoid about getting locked up lol idk if i'd wanna sit thru all those emotions without a strong drink nearby 
anyway, ill def be checking it out to see how they tackle the tough stuff 