BA Musical Theatre students at UWL’s London College of Music (LCM) have taken learning beyond the stage – creating and touring an original, high-energy production to local primary schools in collaboration with the Criminology department in the School of Human and Social Sciences (SHSS).
Their imaginative new show, ‘What Did I Zoo?’, combines humour, music and colourful characters to explore important themes of empathy, rights and responsibilities in a way that resonates with Key Stage 2 pupils.
A wild story with a powerful message
At the centre of the production is Mandy, a young mandrill who dreams of returning to life in the jungle. But while stuck in the zoo, Mandy discovers something troubling – Paulina the Polar Bear is being treated unfairly.
Determined to make things right, Mandy sets out to uncover the truth, leading young audiences on a journey of courage, kindness and speaking up in the face of injustice.
Through its playful storytelling, ‘What Did I Zoo?’ tackles serious ideas – such as fairness, authority and respect for difference – while keeping children fully engaged through music, movement and character-driven storytelling.
Research meets performance
The production builds on last year’s successful collaboration between LCM and SHSS, which used theatre to explore the topic of Hate Crime, based on research led by Associate Professor in Criminology Maya Flax.
This year’s project is once again rooted in Maya’s research, this time funded by the Sir Halley Stewart Trust, examining how Jewish prisoners in the UK navigate their religious identity and whether they experience antisemitism while incarcerated.
Maya explains:
“What Did I Zoo? explores rules, boundaries and consequences, but it is equally a story about rehabilitation, personal growth and recognising that people are more than the worst mistake they have ever made. I believe there is no better time to help young people understand these important issues than during their primary school years.”
Real-world experience for future performers
For students, the project offered a valuable opportunity to create original work with real-world impact – developing skills not only as performers, but as storytellers and collaborators.
Gillian Ford, Course Leader, BA (Hons) Musical Theatre said:
“The overwhelmingly positive feedback from schools highlights the impact socially conscious theatre can have, while giving students invaluable experience in creating meaningful work rooted in real-world issues.”
Student Emily Rickwood said:
“Performing this show and collaborating with the Criminology department has been amazing and so eye-opening as to what can be created. It’s been fun and really helped me with my physicality.”
Student Meg Groza said:
“Having the privilege to Assistant Direct a project like this has been the most rewarding experience. I am not only proud of the show that we have created, but I am beyond honoured to have worked with such a talented cohort.”
