What is 'A Giant on the Bridge' about?

It's a gig-theatre production that uses songs co-written by people with lived experience of the justice system to explore themes of re-entry and homecoming after prison.

How did 'A Giant on the Bridge' research begin?

The show originated from the 'Distant Voices: Coming Home' research project, which investigated the challenges individuals face upon release from prison.

Who performs in 'A Giant on the Bridge'?

The songs are performed by an ensemble of notable Scottish musicians, described as a 'Scottish indie folk supergroup'.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Prisoner Songs: A Voice for the Voiceless

Prisoner Songs: A Voice for the Voiceless

20 Jan

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Summary

A musical theatre piece uses songs co-written with formerly incarcerated individuals.
Research reveals societal and structural issues impact re-entry success rates.
The show features a 'Scottish indie folk supergroup' performing diverse voices.

Prisoner Songs: A Voice for the Voiceless

A Giant on the Bridge, a piece of gig-theatre, directly addresses the often-overlooked aspects of decarceration and re-entry into society. Developed from the Distant Voices: Coming Home research project, the show features songs co-written by individuals with direct experience of the prison system.

The research uncovered that re-entry challenges are frequently linked to societal and structural factors, such as employment opportunities and family support. Collaborative songwriting sessions in prisons and community settings provided a space for participants to explore these difficult experiences.

Performed by a specially assembled group of Scottish musicians, dubbed a 'Scottish indie folk supergroup', the piece brings together a plurality of voices. The theatrical approach allows performers to embody different characters and stories, fostering an intimate connection with the audience.