"Very funny, very moving & very real"
With Swags & Tails Open Clasp aimed to create truthful, risk-taking and entertaining theatre that increases awareness of the issues facing older people and those who care for them, and makes a difference by increasing empathy and understanding. Audiences so far think we're achieving that aim.
Audience members say:
"Very funny, very moving and very real"
"You have made me laugh and cry in a second. I LOVE it!"
"Loved every moment - brilliantly and beautifully executed."
From twitter:
"Swags and Tails was unbelievable!! Such powerful stories, raising awareness about Dementia! Thankyou!"
"more mixing of art and thinking on older people from our own brilliant @OpenClasp theatre"
The Evening Chronicle says Swags & Tears is "at once endearing, hilarious, passionate and tear-jerking. It gives a perfect insight in to the lives of the elderly and fights on their behalf for some much-needed respect." Read the full review.
Wellburn Care have published a blog about their experiences helping to create Swags & Tails. "...there was plenty of laughing and excitement... It was wonderful to see the residents get so involved and to hear their stories." Read the blog here.
Since April 2011 writer Catrina McHugh has led drama workshops with 155 women who live and work in care homes, care for loved ones, use day centres or can’t easily get out and about. Using drama techniques each group created a character with their own story to tell. These stories informed Swags & Tails, which showcases the power of the arts to make a difference. Director Charlotte Bennett (chosen for the National Theatre Studio Director's Programme 2011) and choreographers RashDash (winner of a Fringe First in both 2010 and 2011) have been working with the cast to bring this exciting new piece of writing to life.
On tour til March don't miss your chance to see Swags & Tails.
If you've already seen it please contact us or join the discussion on facebook or twitter to let us know what you think.
Reece Jacobs - AKA the Rod Stewart impersonator in Swags & Tails - also does composition work - find out more here.
"At once endearing, hilarious, passionate and tear-jerking."
"Open Clasp is truly a treasure of the north east that must be supported and encouraged to become a treasure of the nation"
"Open Clasp have the balls, the brains and above all, the sense of humour, to tackle issues in a fresh and beguiling way"