The Siege

A brand new production by The Freedom Theatre, Palestine.

April 2002. Spring in Bethlehem. Six men seek sanctuary in one of the world’s holiest sites. As the Israeli army closes in on the Church of the Nativity with helicopters, tanks and snipers, a handful of Palestinian freedom fighters take refuge. Their resistance will last for 39 inconceivable days.

While the world watches, the fighters are faced with a question: struggle to the end or surrender. No matter what they choose, they will have to leave their families and their homeland behind forever.

The Siege is inspired by the true story of the Palestinian fighters who took refuge in the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem during the height of the second Intifada in 2002. It is drawn from the real-life testimonies of the fighters, now exiled across Europe.

The Freedom Theatre is a unique ensemble based in Jenin Refugee camp, Palestine. They have always lived under occupation and use culture as a form of resistance. The Siege is directed by Artistic Director Nabil Al-Raee and British director Zoe Lafferty. It will be the first time the company has toured to the UK.