Grenfell: in the words of survivors

Grenfell in the Words of Survivors was a verbatim play written by Gillian Slovo, directed by Phyllida and Anthony Simpson-Pike and commissioned by the National Theatre. Drawing on testimony from residents and survivors of the fire, together with reconstructed scenes from the Grenfell Tower Fire Public Enquiry, it was first performed at the Dorfman Theatre in 2023 and described as ‘a masterpiece of forensic fury’ (Mark Lawson, The Guardian 2023). The production offered training, participation and internship opportunities across fourteen community groups from the North Kensington area. Through KPPL, Kate produced the production’s transfer to New York and a programme of education work at St Ann’s Warehouse, Brooklyn. Contributors to the play from Grenfell were brought to New York to join local activists in post-show discussions around public housing issues. The production won The Drama Desk award for Unique Theatrical Experience. It is available for viewing on NT at Home.

This production is dedicated to the 72 lives lost in the Grenfell Tower tragedy, and to the survivors, the bereaved, and the community in their ongoing fight for justice.