AWAKE is a 90-minute multi-cultural, multi-arts, theatrical experience that takes you deep into the heart of one of Toronto’s most culturally diverse, yet sometimes violent neighbourhoods, Jamestown/Rexdale. The play, set in a church during a funeral service of an unnamed victim of gun violence, explores the ripple effect of violence within a community. Developed over three years, the piece portrays what life is like for residents, both the triumphs and the challenges, for those living in an “at risk” community in Toronto. The script is made up entirely from word for words interviews conducted with the residents of the Jamestown/Rexdale area who have been impacted by gun violence including: mothers who have lost children, gang members, youth workers, and police. The show incorporates docudrama, dancehall, rap, gospel music, organ music, and beatboxing.
The workshop version of AWAKE premiered at the Fringe Festival in 2011. It was the second hiest grossing show in the festival and was featured extensively throughout the media.
Today we’re pleased to make public our Evaluation for this project.
This document details our process and lessons learned. We hope this evaluation can be of value to community organizations, artists, and community members interested in how the arts can play a valuable role in community engagment.
Download the AWAKE EVALUATION here.