Blackbirds

Mayflower Street runs between Jamaica Road and the Thames in Bermondsey, South London. In 1939, 34 houses and 121 residents occupied the street. Between 1940 and 1941 bombs fell on 7 of these houses and at the end of the war, the street – with its corner shop, was demolished. The London Bubble Theatre backs on to Mayflower Street overlooking the new houses and flats that now stand there. Over the course of a year, our drama group members researched the history of the Blitz, consulting the electoral roll and interviewing residents who grew up nearby.

Blackbirds is the drama that emerged from this process. Using personal testimony, physical theatre and the combined skills of a cast of contemporary Londoners, ranging in age from 7 to 78, the piece set out to share some of the experiences and events that made our city into the place we know it today.

Suitable for use in schools, colleges, youth theatres and community groups.

Inspired by South Londoners

Developed by Jonathan Petherbridge

Written by Simon Startin

www.grandchildrenoftheblitz.com