• Duration: 75 mins
  • Tickets: £10

Details

!This event has a content warning warning +

Suicide, murder, police brutality, systemic neglect, poverty, homelessness, de/colonialism

Offering a unique window into often overlooked aspects of the city of Oxford, “Portals and Parallels” is an exploration of the duality that defines this place, blending elements of theatre, comedy, spoken word, visual art, music and more.     

Drawing from his own experiences as a long-term resident of the Leys, and his recent unexpected involvement in various projects with the city’s University, Rawz weaves a tapestry of poems, songs, articles, talks and stories into a narrative, charting his journeys through Oxford’s contrasting worlds.    

More than a performance; it’s a sharing of his life story in the context of this world-renowned city, with its contradictions and hidden secrets. Designed to leave a lasting impact on the audience by looking at the fabric of modern Britain (and the world) through a narrowly focused lens, we explore how society functions and interrogate the complex interplay between socio-economic worlds, contributing to a conversation that will continue long after the show has finished.  

Not quite a sequel to his headline at last year’s festival, this updated, extended and enhanced version of Rawz’ first ever one-man theatre show will offer a deeper exploration of the city’s dual identity. Coming from Greater Leys, one of the UK’s most under-privileged wards, and leaving school without GCSEs, Rawz’ journey into the heart of global elitism and academia was unexpected, but from this unique vantage point, he can tell a story that this city desperately needs to hear.

 

This show is part of the Offbeat Festival a partnership between the Old Fire Station, Oxford Playhouse, and New Theatre Oxford. It supports emerging talent, encourages local artists, provides a platform for new voices, and gives the public a chance to see bold new performances that take risks and push boundaries.

Parking & Access

Parking

There are a number of Blue Badge parking spaces nearby on Beaumont Street, and more on New Inn Hall Street and St Giles.

The closest car park is Gloucester Green Car Park, accessed via Gloucester Street.

If you have any questions or concerns, the City Council’s Access Officer can be reached at 01865 249811.

Getting here

We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint, but we need your help. Use ecoway, our sustainable travel planner, to see the most eco-friendly options for your journey to Old Fire Station, and plan a bespoke and flexible route. ecoway is easy to use and you’ll be kept up to date with any disruption or changes to your journey plan.

Car parks in Oxford Blue Badge information Public transport in Oxford

Access

Disabled patrons are eligible for one free companion ticket with their booking. To book this, contact the ticket office: tickets@oldfirestation.org.uk or 01865 263990.

There are two entrances to the Old Fire Station: 40 George Street via the foyer, and on Gloucester Green via the shop. Both are step-free. If you are coming to a show, we ask that you use the George Street entrance, as the Gloucester Green entrance is not always open.

Events in the Theatre

There is level entry to the foyer of the Old Fire Station, and step-free access to the main Theatre (where most shows take place).

If you are a wheelchair user attending a sit-down show, space will be reserved for you. If you are attending a standing gig, please contact us (call the ticket office on 01865 263990 or e-mail tickets@oldfirestation.org.uk) and we will talk with you about your needs.

Events in the Studio

There is level entry into the foyer of the Old Fire Station, and step-free access to the Studio.

Events in the Loft

There are six steps leading up to the Loft space, with no lift. If you would like to discuss this to find out more, please get in touch.

The Gallery

There is step-free access to the Gallery – level entry through the George Street entrance, and via lift from the Gloucester Green entrance.

Facilities

Accessible toilet
There is an accessible toilet on the ground floor, accessible via platform lift. Other toilets are in the basement (accessible via lift).

Hearing assistance system
The Theatre is equipped with a hearing assistance system. If you have any questions about using it, please e-mail us at tickets@oldfirestation.org.uk or phone 01865 263980.

Assistance dogs
All types of assistance and guide dogs are welcome at the Old Fire Station. It would be great if you could let us know in advance if you will be bringing a working dog to any performances – just e-mail tickets@oldfirestation.org.uk.

Strobe lighting
We will warn visitors on the website and in the foyer of the venue if a performance is going to contain strobe lighting. If lighting affects you, and you have any concerns, please call the ticket office on 01865 263990 or e-mail tickets@oldfirestation.org.uk.

Chairs in the theatre
Our chairs are a standard dining-chair size, measuring 40cm deep by 37cm wide, with a metal frame. Some have arms, and some do not. They are all joined together at the sides, to form rows. If this is likely to pose a problem for you, please email tickets@oldfirestation.org.uk and we can discuss how to make your visit more comfortable.