Introducing Saltmine Theatre Company’s Switch Up

An innovative production and interactive workshop addressing knife crime, gang violence and self identity.

This weekend BBC News has reported that two teenagers in Kingstanding, Birmingham and in Hyde Park, London were stabbed and lost their lives. Both victims were teenagers.

Knife crime has been responsible for a devastating loss of life and with lockdown restrictions easing, it is vital that we continue to educate, inform and support young people about the dangers and implications of carrying a knife and how to remain safe.

Switch Up is an anti-knife crime production and workshop from Saltmine Theatre Company which addresses on the complex, interrelated issues of knife crime, gang violence and self identity. Incorporating multi-media and rap music, this powerful production aims to encourage young people to make considered and positive decisions in relation to these concerns.



Watch the Switch Up promo video here:


In response to these recent stabbings, Switch Up will be touring secondary schools in the Autumn of 2021. Switch Up has toured to 55 schools and been performed to 17,500 young people and educators: here is some of their feedback:



“Really accessible for students which is relatable to their world. Hard hitting and relevant and emotionally charged. We are currently doing issues within our drama classes and so this was so helpful for the year 9 students.”

Drama Teacher, Earls High School



“I was so emotional and engrossed watch this performance. The kids are truly taking this all in and learning from it..”

Audience member, Northumbria



    Key Information for secondary schools:
  • A 50-minute performance, accompanied by a 50-minute workshop
  • Recommended for school years 7-13
  • Cost - £800 + travel costs + VAT per day


If you are a teacher and wish to enquire about dates for Autumn term 2021 please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
or call 01384 454800.

Switch Up was commissioned and the original tours funded by Derby City Council and Police. If your organisation would be interested in partnering with Saltmine Trust to reach schools in your area, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
or call 01384 454800.

If you are a community worker, church leader or simply an individual interested in this production and would like to enquire about gifting this production to schools in your local area, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

    Notes to the Editor
  • Saltmine Trust is a Christian charity and theatre company, inspired by the life and teaching of Jesus.
     
  • Creating and retelling stories, with a commitment to making a difference, they deliver high quality creative performances and interactive workshops. Describing what they do as 'faith motivated arts', and performing to more than 100,000 people per year, Saltmine Theatre Company aims to impact lives and transform society.