70% of women in the UK have experienced sexual harassment in public, rising to 97% of 18- to 24-year-olds. Meanwhile, a social media poll finds that if, hypothetically, all men were sent into space for 24 hours, the overwhelming majority of women said they’d use the opportunity to go for walk alone after dark.

Taking these findings as a starting point, A Walk in the Park is a participatory performance aimed at exploring our shared experience of public spaces, created in consultation with experts in harassment and sexual violence.

Combining authentic conversations with women and students, startling statistics and choreographed movement to create an atmospheric exploration of what it feels like to walk alone in the dark, the performance ends with an invitation to the audience to leave the space together and walk through a nearby park or green space.

During this shared walk, participants are facilitated to share their experiences and build an installation of creative reflections. All voices and contributions are welcome, and audience members are free to participate as much or as little as they wish.

“Beyond anything, this show makes me feel seen.”

“The perfect form to start a conversation that can initiate change.”

Audience feedback

The performance can be adapted for different spaces and contexts and is particularly suitable for university campuses. Following the introduction of new OfS regulations which from 2025 require all universities to maintain a comprehensive source of information which sets out policies and procedures relating to incidents of harassment and sexual misconduct, A Walk in the Park is an innovative and impactful approach to engaging audiences and participants in mindful dialogue, building a culture of conversation, awareness and prevention.

“What an impactful performance which highlights the reality for women and girls when walking alone in the dark. The opportunity to involve the audience in a walk in the park and discussion afterwards led to meaningful learning and practical steps that we can all do to make a difference. Learning through the performing arts takes people on an emotional journey which I believe is the best way to provoke cultural change.”

Karen Lingwood
Domestic Abuse Consultant, London Borough of Barnet