Wassail Theatre presents
Birthday Day
Sunday 16th June 2024 – 6pm
Family ties, birthday celebrations and pavlova come together to reveal the secrets hidden in Somerset’s strawberries.
“Sweet, poignant, nostalgic and terribly tragic” Audience Member
Birthday Day is a play about the truths and lies of a Somerset farming family. Three performers and the audience seamlessly entwine to create an annual family party, spanning 70 years. Uncle Brian, Cousin Georgina, Granny and Grandad: they’re all there to celebrate Jeanie and Lily, two sisters who share everything – including a birthday. But one year, on one birthday, at one family party, things change forever. You are invited to join the Birthday celebrations on the farm, and watch their story unfold.
Birthday Day is inspired by the short story A Notable Oak Tree by Nick White, which itself was inspired by conversations with Somerset farmer Duncan Palmer. The story explores relationships, traditions, untold truths, birthdays and seasons of change. It brings people together through food and theatre and encourages us to reflect on the relationship we have with our own community, the land and each other.
This performance is made possible by the generous support of Arts Council England, Take Art, The Octagon Theatre & Westlands Entertainment Venue, and Bridgwater Town Council.
Birthday Day is suitable for anyone aged 8+. The show has not been made with young children in mind but they are very welcome. If you have any questions around this please do contact us!
Ticket price options
We want everyone to have the option to experience local theatre but we know that in these difficult financial times it’s not always possible. Standard tickets cost £10 each but we are offering multiple price options so that those who want to come but can’t afford it can buy a concession ticket at £8, and those who have the means and want to help others to experience theatre can buy an abundance ticket at £12.
Running time: approx. 1hr
Important information:
As with many Wassail shows, the audience sits in the heart of the action. In “Birthday Day”, you are one of the guests of a family party. The performers may ask for your help with some small jobs on occasion. If you don’t feel able to help, you don’t have to.
Most performances take place on uneven ground. Please wear suitable footwear and come prepared for the weather. Audience members are required to sit around tables. Although we have a few chairs available we are asking everyone to PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR. Contact us if you have any questions about this. wasson@wassailtheatre.co.uk
NO DOGS allowed on this site
Refreshments are available on the day.
Event Details
Doors Open at 5:30PM
Starts at 6:00PM
Sun, 16 June 2024
18.00
The Community Farm
Chew Magna
BS40 8SZ
Age 8+