A new play by Alexandra Johnson, produced by STAMP Theatre and Media Productions CIC. The story of Ray a Drag artist and his Coventry Irish Mother who has dementia.
Ray just wants to go out. His mother doesn’t want to stay in. They’re both trapped inside. It examines familial and professional care giving exploring the blurred boundaries between duty and love.
In 2023 Alex was awarded funding by the Coventry City of Culture for professional mentoring. She invited Bryanston to be her mentor. An exciting 6 months ensued discussing and exploring the potential of a play about care. We met carers, Alex wrote some script, and we read and researched some of the elements that would make a play. Alex produced a short script for a scratch night at The Pleasance it was clear from the positive outcome that this was an idea that could be worked into production.
We explored the interesting relevance of the son drag artist and how he can satirise the position he is in and comment on society in an accessible and entertaining way. Contemporary drag allows for a broad explorations of gender expression and activism which gives both characters a voice in unexpected ways.
We have learnt from observing good practices in the care community that people with dementia respond particularly well to fun, lively drama sessions, singing and vivid costuming. Music, performance and familiar aesthetics can evoke memories and recognition. Ray reaches his mother through his drag persona bringing some laughter and colour into their lives, albeit the moments of engagement are brief. So, what happens when Mother goes missing?
Alex developed some of these ideas in script which Bryanston directed and took to The Pleasance Theatre London scratch night and further explored in a care home with an interactive drama session.
Images courtesy of Avalon Court Care Home.
The Belgrade Theatre, Coventry is keen to support new work, which directly engages with the local community and reflects their stories. Subject to funding, the play will be presented in the B2 space. With this support we will then be able to tour our interactive performance workshops to care and retirement facilities both locally and further afield.