A Revolution That Rocked The World at the Torch

After a hugely successful run in Cardiff back in 2023, Sherman Theatre and Hijinx’s production of Housemates comes to the Torch Theatre this April. Tim Green’s re-telling of a remarkable story which took place just metres from the Sherman Theatre doors in Cardiff captured the hearts of audiences and won huge praise from critics in 2023. It’s the story of friends who started a revolution which marked the beginning of the end of institutionalized care with the creation of the UK’s first supported living home.

It began when Alan, a young man born with Down’s syndrome, crashed into the life of Cardiff University student Jim. Alan had lived as a resident in Ely Hospital since childhood; all he wanted was to live in a house and be in a band. Jim wanted to make a difference in the world, but didn’t know how. Together with their friends, they embarked on an experiment that transformed how things were done, how people were treated and who got to tell you how to live.

Writer Tim Green, Sherman Theatre and Hijinx come together to tell this remarkable true story and will travel to three locations here in Wales with three performances at the Torch Theatre. Feel the noise with this banging night out filled with classic 70s hits played live and performed by a cast of neurodivergent and neurotypical actor-musicians include members of the Hijinx Academy. The foot-tapping, heart-warming, eye-opening night directed by Ben Pettitt-Wade and Joe Murphy, is one not to be missed.

Supported by funding from Arts Council of Wales, Housemates has received rave reviews and was awarded five stars by The Stage who described it as “A production that radiates warmth, wit and humanity.”

Housemates contains loud music, strong language and adult themes.

Tickets for Housemates performed at the Torch Theatre from Wednesday 2 April to Friday 4 April at 7pm are on sale now at £22 / Concessions: £20 / £15 for those Under 26. They can be purchased through the Torch Theatre Box Office on 01646 695267 or click here.