Katherine is trying to move on but she's struggling to let go. There has already been so much loss, so where does she go from here? Time is running out and there are big decisions to make. Should she sign the contract and if she does, what to take with her and what to leave behind? Could her house hold the answers? Marking the 5th anniversary of the Covid-19 pandemic with heart, humour and magical realism, featuring original music on created instruments. Grounded affirms life by confronting loss, exploring real experiences of grief to find hope and solidarity.

                               

 

About the team:

Ruth Raynor is a theatre-maker and social researcher who co-founded Albatross Theatre Company because she believes in the healing power of creativity. Ruth has directed for Manchester 24:7 Festival, and the Chorlton Arts festival, worked in set and costume design for companies like CanDoCo; Cloud 9; Field-Music; Dance City, Live Youth Theatre and Newcastle College, before writing a first play as part of her PhD in the department of human geography at Durham University. She has since published and spoken internationally on performance for social research, lived experiences of social policy, and the politics of emotion. An engagement with place, especially this place, the North East of England, runs through her work.

 

 

Karen Underhill is a visual and performing artist working across disciplines that include fine art, digital media, street theatre and performance. Karen has extensive experience working with / in communities nationally and internationally. Karen’s husband died very suddenly at the start of the pandemic and she was left with two young children. Since then, Karen’s art sessions have brought together many people who were bereaved during the pandemic, to make works from a range of materials inspired by waves.

 

 

Albatross are a contemporary new writing theatre collective based in the North East of England. We believe in the healing power of creativity. We believe in theatre that asks big questions but isn’t afraid to have fun. We believe that a night at the theatre is an event that brings us all together, regardless of age, background or belief; a shared experience that helps us to feel less alone. We believe in theatre that allows us to look at ourselves and the world around us a bit differently.

 

We are inspired by the albatross. This famous seabird, with the largest wingspan, needs time to take off, but once airborne she will cover the greatest distance. We don't rush our theatre, but instead take time to develop excellent quality work, built on meaningful collaborations. Everyone deserves a chance to experience the healing power of creativity, no matter what stage of life they’re in, or how long it takes them to get going. Above all we aim to produce plays that will make you laugh and cry with stories, characters, and voices that stay with you long after you’ve left the building.   

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With funding from UKRI ESRC IAA Account at Newcastle University.