Every Breath (Y Touring)

Every Breath, written by Judith Johnson and funded by a Society Award, is just one example from a prodigious body of exemplary work from Y Touring, the award-winning touring theatre company of the Central YMCA.

Led by Artistic Director Nigel Townsend, 'Every Breath' started its life within a series of interdisciplinary workshops where knowledge was pooled from the worlds of writing, performance and the sciences. This enabled both the development of a raft of online support resources and the creation of a play that skilfully weaves complex philosophical and emotional issues into a rich narrative-driven story.

In 'Every Breath', Sonny and his sister, Anita, are two young siblings firmly rooted on opposing poles of a complex animal rights argument. As Anita's scientific career veers inevitably towards the use of animals in her research, family tensions and loyalties are stretched to breaking point.

Part of the play's strength is its ability to embrace both sides of this important argument. Following each performance, often within schools, the audience participates in a follow-up debate during which the performers remain in character. Having seen and been informed by the arguments unfolding before them, the audience is well equipped to engage in a meaningful - and frequently fun - debate.

Joan Bakewell, the 'Independent', 9 June 2006
"In small and significant ways the arts have crept into people's lives. The unsung but significant Y Touring company commissions new plays that demonstrate the ethical dilemmas of science and plays them to enthusiastic school audiences. Thus are modest enterprises reaching into lives and making them better."