Introduction

Created by Cora Bissett and first performed in 2010, “Roadkill” is a hard-hitting, immersive drama that tackles the issue of sex trafficking. Inspired by real-life stories, it features a young Nigerian girl lured to the UK on false promises, only to be trapped in a brutal underworld.

Synopsis

The production places the audience within the environment of a trafficked victim’s living conditions. Through direct encounters and a site-specific format, “Roadkill” lays bare the exploitation and psychological torment that trafficked women endure. Despite the difficult subject matter, it also highlights moments of resilience and the urge to survive.

Key Themes

• Human Trafficking: Exposes the cruel realities of sexual exploitation and modern slavery.

• Power and Vulnerability: Shows how hope can be twisted by those who prey on desperation.

• Immersive Theatre: Brings audiences face-to-face with the horror, creating empathetic shock and heightened awareness.

Significance in Scottish Theatre

“Roadkill” won multiple awards (including an Olivier Award) and pushed the boundaries of theatrical form in Scotland, bringing urgent social issues directly to viewers. It helped cement Cora Bissett’s reputation as one of Scotland’s most innovative and socially conscious theatre-makers.

Why Actors Love It

• Immediate Audience Connection: The immersive style demands strong improvisational skills and presence.

• Social Impact: Performing “Roadkill” can be a transformative experience, raising awareness for a critical global issue.