Date and time: Wednesday 9 September 2026, 18.00–20.00
Location: Palace Court Theatre, Bournemouth town centre
Part of the Boys' Impact conference, Boys Can is a networking event featuring a performance from Our Direction, the Ferndown Upper School Takes Boys Seriously acting company, followed by a post-show discussion.
Created by the all-boy acting company, Boys Can tells their personal stories of navigating the world as young men and the challenges that they face. The story focuses on Alex, a young boy who goes on a journey navigating his daily struggles, his interactions with peers, loved ones, the online world and decisions that young people are often presented with.
With boys receiving messages about having to "man up" and what it means to be a man, Boys Can provides reflections on these issues and engages with what young men truly think and have to say. Expect a thought-provoking, personal exploration of young men today that represents not only the boys at Ferndown Upper School, but boys up and down the country who are reflected through Alex and his experiences.
Doors open at 18.00 for pre-show drinks, followed by the performance of Boys Can at 19.00 and a post-show discussion at 19.30. This event is free to attend.
As a way to combat stereotypes of masculinity, Ferndown Upper School Takes Boys Seriously have created an all-boy acting company called Our Direction, using theatre as a vehicle to express their experiences of being a young man in today's world. Their performances are driven by their individual voices, inspired by watching performances of Choir of Man and Dear England. Boys Can demonstrates their bond through theatre and the opportunity to have their voices heard on stage.
Boys’ Impact is a national movement committed to improving outcomes for boys and young men experiencing socio-economic inequality. Bringing together educators, researchers and practitioners, they champion a strengths-based, evidence-led approach that amplifies boys’ voices and creates ecosystems where they can thrive.
The Boys’ Impact Conference is an annual gathering of thought leaders and practitioners showcasing cutting-edge research, innovative practice and lived experience. It serves as a space for collaboration, challenge and inspiration, driving forward a collective commitment to ensuring boys and young men receiving Free School Meals are supported to flourish in education and beyond.
Find us
Hinton Road, Bournemouth
Dorset
BH1 2EN
United Kingdom
Find the Palace Court Theatre: what3words: ///steep.turns.keep
