AWARD-WINNING young actors are about to embark on their most adventurous trip when they jet off to Brazil.

Seven members of the Bishop Auckland Theatre Hooligans, at King James 1 Community College, will arrive in Rio de Janeiro in September to make a documentary videotape about the sensitive issue of domestic violence.

Working in city communities and with the church, police and a youth drama group, they will be following up the success of their videotape on the subject, called Victims of Silence.

The Brazilian video, called Cidade 04, will be launched in Bishop Auckland Town Hall, in January.

The project has been supported by the Key Fund throughout its development.

Other funding has come from the group's youth, community and drama work and from organisations, including Wear Valley District Council. Group members contribute towards their costs.

Leaders are Stephen Elliott and Mick Hutchinson.

Mr Elliott said: "We are very proud of the hard work and commitment shown by the group members."

Published: 29/07/2004