When I heard that SPID were making a show about outdoor games, I was keen to get involved. Being in Childsplay is like reliving my childhood, and hopefully it triggers a lot of happy memories for audiences. I grew up playing in the park on the estate where I lived, so outdoor games in a place like Hammersmith’s Normand Park really hits home with me.

I hung out with a close group of friends who remind me of the time travelling crew in the show. Those kids were like a family to me, and all us teenagers have got really close making this show. It sounds a bit uncool to say it, but playing games together really bonds you.

Our shows have been really fun so far and I’m sure they’ll continue to improve. Performances like this need an active audience and those watching that show weren’t afraid to take part. So far we’ve had a little 3 year old and a feisty pensioner and they’ve both gotten into it.

What I’ve enjoyed most about Childsplay is bringing my own experiences to it. I remember the excitement of trying to win as a child and I’ve really tapped into that. As a Black British teenager I had fun developing the character of 12 year old Samuel, who came to England during the Windrush. And I know first hand how wary people get when they see a gang of young people outside – so I love that the show introduces us as may be a bit intimidating, then shows that we’re really just big kids.

Childsplay mixes two of my favourite pastimes; games and theatre. You get to travel through the decades as you move around the park. Lots of shows say they’re a journey and then just stick you in a seat, so I’m proud that ours really gets you on the move.

S.P.I.D. (Specially Produced Innovatively Directed) is an award winning company who uses drama to regenerate community spaces. SPID focuses on West London council estates, creating site specific promenades which engage people with their environment. Childsplay was a professional show for young people and adults which was funded by London Councils as part of a program to get council estate residents involved in the arts.