IPSWICH'S New Wolsey Theatre has teamed up with Babergh Community Safety Partnership to produce a new play about young people. No Ball Games has been devised by the cast - Matt Harrison, Laura Norman and Ricky Norwood - and is directed by New Wolsey associate director Rob Salmon.

IPSWICH'S New Wolsey Theatre has teamed up with Babergh Community Safety Partnership to produce a new play about young people.

No Ball Games has been devised by the cast - Matt Harrison, Laura Norman and Ricky Norwood - and is directed by New Wolsey associate director Rob Salmon.

The play explores the perception of anti-social behaviour in Babergh.

Mr Salmon said: “This is a rather typical, but also quite telling, example of how young people are often prohibited from releasing their limitless energy, anxiety and frustration in spaces where they feel valued and safe.

“Following an initial period of investigation working with young people in Babergh, the cast and I have devised a play based on their options and experiences which explores ways in which this energy can be directed away from violence, negative risk taking, alcohol misuse, vandalism and criminal activity into positive activities that contribute to our society.”

Ann-Gennette Scott, Community Safety Officer, Babergh District Council said: "It is hoped that this production will bridge the gap between young and old.

“It is sometimes difficult for different generations to understand each other. This play will get the ball rolling towards a more cohesive community by giving young people a voice".

Four schools - Hadleigh High, Great Cornard Upper, Sudbury Upper and East Bergholt High - and up to 1,000 children have participated in the workshop phase of the project and up to 5,000 will have an opportunity to see the finished play.

Mr Salmon added: “We are delighted to work with the support of Babergh Community Safety Partnership to address such topical and relevant issues.

“The finished play will undoubtedly generate further discussion and I applaud the Partnership for addressing the issues head on.”

Performances at the four participating schools are closed to the public but seats can be booked for the community performances at Sudbury Upper School Art's Centre at 6pm on Wednesday April 1(Tickets: 01787 375131 ext 214) and at Shotley Village Hall at 7pm on Thursday April 2 (Tickets: 01473 826616).