I’d Rather Go Blind
By Somalia Seaton
Omnibus Theatre | 1 - 5 OCTOBER 2019
CAST
Michelle: Toyin Ayedun-Alase
Ruby: Leona Allen
Chrissy: Anna-Maria Everett
CREATIVES
Writer: Somalia Seaton
Director: Caroline Bryant
Designer: Futures Theatre
Composer: Lilian Henley
Movement Director: Sarita Piotrowski
Lighting Designer: Bethany Gupwell
Production shots by Lidia Crisafulli
Rehearsal photography by Dylan Tate
“I see you strong, I see you spinning on your own axis – full of life – full of joy. I see you like me when I turned 18 – unfiltered – ready to conquer the world head held high – heart strong – I see you growing everyday.”
Michelle and Ruby look like any other mother and daughter. They dance, sing, fight and hide from each other. But as Ruby’s 18th birthday looms, a surprise parcel in the post threatens their cosy existence together.
Inspired and informed by women who have lived through the criminal justice system, Somalia Seaton’s latest play, I’d Rather Go Blind, is a tender exploration of what it takes to be a mother in a world that is closing in around you.
I’d Rather Go Blind is produced in celebration of the extraordinary women Futures Theatre and Somalia Seaton worked with throughout 2017.
I’d Rather Go Blind is the third commission from Futures creative engagement project An Alternative Life 2015 – 2017. During 2017 Futures worked in partnership with The Beth Centre in Lambeth, London, with women who all have lived experience of the criminal justice system. We commissioned playwright Somalia Seaton to write a play informed by their challenges and their dreams.
Supported by Arts Council England, Unity Theatre Trust and SE Franklin Trust