In 2015, I read Louise O’Neill’s book, Asking For It. It wasn’t what I would call an enjoyable read but it was a gripping story and it has such an important message. When I heard that the book was being adapted into a play, I knew I had to see it. It made its debut at The Birmingham Rep last week and I went along to the press night to see it.
Asking For It
Without giving too much away, the story revolves around a bunch of teenagers living in a small town in Ireland. They’re your typical teenagers, spending their weekends drinking and partying but one night it all goes wrong for main character Emma O’Donovan. Emma finds herself waking up the next morning on her doorstep with very hazy memories of the night before. Unfortunately for her, photos start to emerge on Facebook which fill in the gaps.
As we know, sharing photos like this is illegal and is now known as ‘revenge porn’. However, in this story not everyone is on Emma’s side. There are a lot of shocking comments from both her peers and her family. The story shows us the emotions Emma goes through after the ordeal, the pressure she’s under from the people closest to her and how her friendships end.
Asking For It is not an easy watch, but it’s one that really makes you feel something. We all know someone who has been a victim of sexual assault. For some of us, we may be the one who has been a victim. It’s something that is happening all the time, the victims are not always believed. The storyline is shocking because it’s so relatable. Sexual consent is something that should be spoken about more, especially in schools. It is something that needs to be taken seriously. We need to teach people that not saying ‘no’ does not mean the other party consents.
I believe that the stage show really does the book justice. It incites a conversation surrounding sexual consent and victim blaming. Asking For It is a raw, moving and honest account of the impacts of rape culture. It is definitely worth seeing if you are in the Birmingham area. Asking For It is showing at the Birmingham Rep until February 15th.
I attended the press night for the show. All words and opinions are my own.
This does indeed sounds like a play with a very powerful message. I would like to go and see it, but also read the book and find out what Emma’s real story is.
I think this type of stuff really happens in real life. Perhaps not widespread, but I bet it does happen. I bet this is a powerful play, mixed with some raw emotions.
It sounds like Asking for it has a very interesting story line, which makes it very modern and relevant nowadays.
oh wow what a dark backstory but one that could quite easily happen to anyone in this day and age. I love stuff like this that makes you think
It sounds interesting, my wife is a big book worm but hasnt read this yet, so i will recommend her both book and then the play
The story is very interesting and it sure will make us on our edge of the sit. Thanks for sharing and this is very timely, very relate-able in our time.
I would love to read the book and then go watch the play at Birmingham Rep as it sounds so interesting. I watch a lot of plays and don’t want to miss this
This certainly sounds like a great way to start some difficult conversations. I am glad that the play did the book justice, I think I will have to check out the book.
It sounds like a really interesting play, one that really makes you stop and think
Wow! This play sounds brilliant! I love theatre that makes you think or that speaks out against things that are wrong in society! I’m glad you enjoyed the play!
Sounds like a great book, would love to read. Thanks for sharing.
Sounds like an interesting book to read, will have to check this out sometime. As well as the play of this book, I bet it’s amazing.