Birthday Day

Wassail is back on the road!

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Following our sell-out tour of Whispering Willows in 2022, Birthday Day is a new outdoor show suitable for ages 8+, touring Somerset this summer.

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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. 

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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.

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Suitable for ages 8+.  We have not made the show with young children in mind but they are very welcome.  Please contact us if you have any questions about this.

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Audiences are limited to 60 per show and tickets must be booked in advance. Performances take place under a marquee outdoors and will require audience members to bring their own chair (except at Speedwell Garden in Crewkerne who are providing chairs).

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Credits:

Rachel Cohen - Performer

Eleanor Westbrook - Performer & Composer

Helena Payne - Performer

Georgia Wall - Movement Co-ordinator

David Reakes - Stage Manager

Nick White - Writer & Director

Jesse Briton - Dramaturg

Julie Read - Designer

Corrinne Curtis - Marketing Manager

Katy Tilley - Producer

Rose Swift - Company Manager

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This production & tour has been made possible with financial support from Arts Council England, Bridgwater Town Council and The Octagon Theatre & Westlands Entertainment Venue.