Behind the Lens, written and directed by Falling Stars Theatre in collaboration with Welcome House Hull, tells the stories of people seeking sanctuary and explores what happens when an ordinary family encounters experiences very different from their own.
The play revolves around the Smith family, who lead an ordinary life in a place they are fortunate to call home. Their perspectives are changed by the people they meet and the stories they hear in their everyday life, which challenges them to confront their own circumstances and privileges.
At the heart of Behind the Lens are real experiences, shared by members of Welcome House, a charity supporting asylum seekers and refugees in Hull and East Riding. Members of Welcome House are involved in the production, with some sharing experiences of fleeing/leaving their homes and the process of trying to build new lives in the UK.
Instead of offering a political position, Behind the Lens invites audiences to listen to the people behind the words ‘asylum seeker’ and ‘refugee’ and consider the individual stories that are often lost behind the headlines.
Beccy Durham, Playwright and Director of Behind the Lens said: “We want this play to stimulate people’s thoughts, questions and responses to a topic we see on the news constantly. We hope it encourages the audiences to understand the experiences of people who were forced to leave their homes, and consider the circumstances that brought them here.”
Shirley Hart, Vice Chair of Welcome House Hull echoes: “This is a powerful and moving play which tells the human stories behind the words ‘asylum seeker’ and ‘refugee’. It does not give an opinion on a subject that is always in the news, instead it invites us to listen. What makes the play so effective is its honesty. It reminds us that people do not leave their homes, families, language and communities lightly. The play makes the statistics personal.”
Behind the Lens is premiering at Hull City Hall on Thursday 15th October 2026 at 8pm. Ticket costs £10, where all sales will help fund future performances. Ticket re available here.