extensive work with students
on the issues dealt with
in our production
Knock Down Ginger
were ongoing through
the rehearsal process
and came to a climax
on Tuesday 17 June 03
with a visit by the rap star
Asher D from So Solid Crew
who visited the theatre to
participate

Quotes:
Asher said: "The workshops are really good for kids trying to get into acting and get them focused. I have been acting since I was four and I feel while I am here they may be more interested.  They might want to take my advice because I have been where they are.   The past has taught me a lot about myself. It has taught me that carrying a firearm is wrong and to have that as a defence mechanism to use against someone does not solve the problem it just makes two wrongs. You have to find other ways to deal with issues. You have to learn to cope with things.  I want to encourage kids not to make the same mistakes as me. Hopefully one child at least will listen to me and that is enough. I am in the public eye and I can use my voice."

Croydon College students Victoria Taiwo, 17, and Jessie Ongei, 18, said they had learned a lot from the workshop and looked forward to seeing the play.  Victoria said: "It showed me I do not really know what I think I know and to have an open discussion is really good.  Jessie said: "Everyone can relate to the play and to have Asher D coming in telling us about himself shows that he just like one of us. He talks to us just like a friend."