"...Before the Birds and The River demonstrate Angie Farrow's ability to humanise global political crises, and to use the symbolism and poetry of theatre to promote debate about some of the most contentious issues of our times. They highlight the considerable potential of theatre to provite communities with a collective outlet for their stories, and a safety valve for their anxieties. The River has been performed by several schools throughout New Zealand, and this publication opens up the potential for further productions. Furthermore, Angie Farrow's community plays provide an inspiring model for other communities to use performing arts for exploration and healing." from David O'Donnell's afterword