Close
Beneath the Cracks
Beneath the Cracks is an audio-drama that traces the history of eugenics at UCL. It explores how harmful ideas - often soft-pedalled or hidden - persist and shape contemporary systems around knowledge, belonging and identity. It tells the story of Liam Murphy, a promising young poet who turns the humiliation of a university open-mic performance into the spark that propels him to the top of the UK poetry scene. As he navigates setbacks, self-doubt, and unexpected hostility, he uncovers unsettling truths about the world around him and must confront his own values and the price of success. While fictional, the narrative interweaves real life experiences and historical fact, encouraging listeners to reflect on the enduring legacy and broader impact of eugenics on existing structures through themes of genetics, social status and the persistence of discriminatory ideologies.
Beneath the Cracks is accompanied by a poem of the same name, which amplifies these themes.
Beneath the Cracks is written, directed and produced by Liam Spencer. Starring Liam Spencer, Belal Stitan, Alice Boland and Noor Iman. Featuring Subhadra Das, George Kelly, Maria Valentina and Paul Fisk. Additional voices by Victor Amzie.
About the Artist
Liam Spencer is a writer, director and performer also known as Annotate. His work raises awareness of important and underrepresented social issues, with the intention to provoke discussion, imagination and fuel creative expression.