We sing in Fire and Blood

Nine years ago at her home in Bristol, writer/director Hazel Grian was brutally attacked by an intruder and left for dead while the house burned.

Designed to be uplifting and positive and to be experienced in groups, this is the first chapter of what will become a larger performance. Encounter a cast of police officers, nurses, neighbours and friends as they sing about their part in solving a horrific crime and caring for the victim.

Because after the fire’s out and the blood has dried, we need to tell the story. We need to tell the story and celebrate.

Hazel says: "I very nearly lost my life, I lost everything I owned but I learnt that my city has a brilliant capacity for empathy." She goes on to say “When my city came out to help me I realised that violence this horrific affects every one of us. Devastating events like the Manchester Arena bombing, Jo Cox murder and Grenfell Tower fire are counteracted by powerful public gatherings, often involving song. My response as an artist is to share the communal reaction to the horror of my attack through song and virtual reality."

The experience is 30 mins long and is viewed on VR headsets in small groups. Hazel then welcomes audience feedback following the viewing.

This work has been supported by Arts Council England and Watershed. Avon & Somerset Constabulary also fully support the project because they understand that in order to fight violent crime it is essential to increase civic pride and togetherness.

“Shattering, uplifting...an impossibly moving fusion of story, song and technology”

— PHIL GIBBY, ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND

“Left me speechless and in awe of the resilience and artistry of this project”

— ANNETTE MEES, ROYAL OPERA HOUSE

Hazel Grian: Writer/Director
Sarah Anderson: Composition
Duncan Speakman: Composition All Seeing Eye: VR Production
Isla Badenoch: Creative Producer Deep Throat Choir: Vocals

The Watershed
We sing in Fire and Blood