As I Left My Father’s House

In English

Who are you? And who are you when you must flee your country and face the cruel sides of the world? And who do you become when your environment sees you as 'the other'?

In the theater performance As I Left My Father’s House, you will learn more about the lives of people who had to leave their homes behind.

The audience will be seated around the actors. The entire show lasts 120 minutes, including a 30-minute post-show aftertalk in the hall.

People who endure the ugly sides of the world: polarization, violence, war, and extremism. With only one source of support: religion. It is where they find strength during their dangerous flight.

This also makes them wonder: to what extent do I influence my children with the suffering I am experiencing now?

I no longer want to hide
Hide who I am
I don’t want to be afraid anymore
Afraid of the night
Afraid of being rejected by people
I want to fly like a dove again

The performance features true stories, supported by touching music and singing, which adds a deeper layer to the narrative. The universal stories remain recognizable because unfortunately, even in 2024, millions of people are still fleeing for a safe existence.

As I Left My Father’s House is a theatrical invitation to those who are engaged with the theme of their unknown neighbors, meaning in life, self-development, and the themes around migration. The story focuses on the major challenges in life and prompts reflection. Where do you seek support in times of adversity? Is connection and empathy with fellow human beings a given?

After the performance, there is an opportunity for a conversation with the creators.

Creator & Company

Bright Omansa Richards is a storyteller, actor, and the artistic director of New Dutch Connections, an organization that inspires (former) asylum seekers to realize their dreams for the future through empowering training programs in the Future Academy.

After fleeing the Liberian Civil War in 1991, Richards was accepted into both the Film Academy in Amsterdam and the Theater School in Arnhem, later performing unforgettable roles on stages such as RO Theater and Huis aan de Amstel.

His performance As I Left My Father’s House has been performed more than 400 times at various locations - high schools, churches, ministries, mosques - for a highly diverse audience. With the performances The Bright Side of Life and Future Citizens, he brings refugees and audiences together to expand their networks and connect with each other.