Show: I am – London's hidden heroes
Stories about identity and belonging in London
One museum. One malfunctioning machine. Boxes full of museum objects and a city brimming with stories.
The museum’s story-collecting machine, TORIC, is glitching. With the help of a museum storyteller, it’s up to the audience to bring TORIC back online by uncovering some of London's hidden heroes.
Discover how Londoners have shaped the city in this interactive show. Along the way, you’ll vote for outcomes, make choices and share ideas, revealing a deeper story about identity, belonging and what it means to be part of London today.
Shows take place in the N. Sethia Showspace. Our shows programme was developed with the kind support of Terra Firma Capital Partners, with ongoing support for Showspace from Tishman Speyer.
'I am – London’s hidden heroes' was written by Christine Ubochi.
Important information
In exploring the stories of London's hidden heroes, this production includes mentions of racial discrimination, violence and bullying. It also references menstruation. Please get in touch with the Learning team if you have any questions about the content, or to discuss any particular sensitivities within your class.
Pupils will:
- understand the role of museums in collecting, preserving and sharing stories and objects
- explore how lived experiences contribute to our understanding of history and community
- reflect on identity, belonging and what it means to be part of a community
- develop an understanding of the diverse communities and histories that have shaped London
- experience the impact of making choices, listening to different perspectives and experiencing collective decision-making
Key stage 3 Citizenship, PSHE and History. Pupils will:
- explore what shapes our identities and what it means to belong to a diverse city like London
- develop critical thinking skills
- discover how people shape their communities and consider how we can contribute to the places we live
When you arrive at the museum, one of our friendly team members will greet you and show you to toilets, galleries and Showspace. They'll be on hand to answer any questions you may have.
During the show you will be part of a shared experience with other schools, with up to three classes attending at the same time. You will:
- be seated together in a theatre space, sitting on large benches
- watch a live show on identity and belonging designed for key stage 3
- be encouraged to participate throughout
When you book, you will be given a timetable for your visit including:
- your arrival time
- time to explore the galleries
- free time
No food or drink is allowed inside Showspace.
Explore who we are and how we shape the places we live.
“Gave our students a chance to get involved, be energetic and learn about culture and history in a new way”
— Teacher feedback on 'I am: London's Hidden Heroes'
Need to know
All shows are completely free but advance booking is required.
Book I am: London's hidden heroes – AM show (11am showtime)
Book I am: London's hidden heroes – PM show (1pm showtime)
Find us at London Museum, General Market, West Smithfield, London, EC1A 9AG.
The closest stations are Farringdon (Elizabeth line, Thameslink, Circle, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan), Barbican (Circle, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan) and St Paul's (Central).
Lots of bus routes also stop within a short walk of the museum, including 4, 8, 25, 46, 56, 63, 100, 172, 242, 521.
There is a dedicated space for wheelchairs. Please let us know when booking if you require wheelchair space.
Anyone can leave the room at any point during the show, but children must be accompanied by an adult.
Shows take place at 11.15am and 1pm and last for one hour including entry and exit from Showspace.
Your arrival time, gallery visit and break slot will be assigned based on which show you book. You will be sent a full timetable when you book.
Please be aware that you are booking a timetabled package that includes a set arrival time, show time, self-led gallery time and a break slot.
Unfortunately, our dedicated lunch space isn’t ready yet but we’re working on it.
We require a minimum of 15 pupils per booking. Each booking can accommodate up to 30 pupils and 6 accompanying adults.
Please do not take any photos or videos in Showspace as there will be pupils from other schools present.
Although schools can book shows for free, we will need to charge a cancellation fee for any cancellations or no-shows to cover staff costs.