Taylor's Journey
A collaborative devising project exploring a young man exploring his identity, and the effects of Hate Crime on the community.
creative commission
2026 Case Study
Community participation
Taylor’s Journey was created through a collaborative process rooted in real experiences. We began by drawing on hate crime statistics from Essex Police to understand the scale and patterns of anti‑LGBTQIA+ abuse in our communities. From there, in collaboration with our fantastic partners and commissioners, Basildon Pride, we ran workshops and focus groups with young LGBTQIA+ people, giving them space to share their stories, fears and hopes in a safe, supported environment.
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Using these lived experiences, we developed an original script for Taylor’s Journey, shaping a narrative that reflects both the challenges and resilience of young people today. The play has been playtested within our New Town Theatre Company sessions, allowing us to refine the story with our ensemble. In October 2026, Taylor’s Journey will tour schools across the region, opening up vital conversations about identity, safety and solidarity.
