Female genital mutilation is the difficult subject matter of a new play that is to be showcased along with live readings in London.
A sample performance of the play Face Up takes place tomorrow evening as notable guest speakers are scheduled to give readings at the event aiming to dispel the myths surrounding the practice that sees girls circumcised.
The play has already been put on at Channel 4’s studios in September, and following a national debate about female genital mutilation, key speakers at tomorrow’s event will speak on the subject.
Organisers said the evening “will include an introduction, performance of an excerpt of the play, and a question and answer session with the writer, director and speakers from female genital mutilation practicing communities.”
In an appeal for public involvement, they added: “Together we will aim to illuminate some of the issues and we welcome your input.
“The collective observations and recommendations will be documented and sent to the office of the prime minister and related public bodies.”
About 24,000 girls in Britain are affected by genital mutilation, according to organisers, who claim no one in this country has yet been prosecuted for the act.
Face Up, directed and written by Yvonne Ossei, has received support from both the Metropolitan Police and NHS.
The event runs from 7pm to 9pm, October 11, at The Studio, The Pleasance, Carpenters Mews, North Road, London N7 9EF