Arches Artist In Residence Adrian Howells explores our complex and ambiguous relationship with water in this immersive theatrical experience. Read more …
In the intimate setting of the training pool at Govanhill Baths, Howells and actor/ dancer Ira Mandela Siobhan perform this new scripted piece, part devised from conversations with members of the local community.
Exploring the emotional and psychological effects of water, from its therapeutic qualities to our overwhelming fear of it, lifeguard re-evaluates the place of swimming in our lives as a health-promoting and life-saving activity.
Working collaboratively with Mike Brookes, Minty Donald, Rob Drummond, Jane Mason, Nick Millar and Nichola Scrutton, lifeguard offers a multi-sensory experience incorporating projection, sound and movement.
An exhibition entitled Water Water Everywhere will also be on display in the baths for the duration of lifeguard . This installation has been created by primary schools on the south side of Glasgow working with the Learn department of the National Theatre of Scotland.
Presented by the National Theatre of Scotland and the Arches in association with Govanhill Baths Community Trust.
This performance takes place at Govanhill Baths, 99 Calder St, Glasgow G42 7RA.
While audience members are encouraged to wear their swimsuits in this warm, accepting environment, it is not compulsory. Similarly, while audience members may be invited to sit around or go in the pool, this is an invitation only.
The production has a suggested age of 12+
Although Lifeguard represents Adrian Howells’ move away from his one-on-one pieces, it retains the sense of intimacy that he has made his signature style over the past decade.
It seems surprisingly short of content, offering just a few fragments of familiar reminiscence, some beautiful projections.
Lifeguard is simply too loose in its structure to be a truly convincing work of art.
The more lingering impact of what is said, done and shown seeps in long after any dampness has been towelled away.
For its short length the piece weaves a multi-sensory web around its audience, but you’re left longing for a clearer shape, a greater emotional crescendo and perhaps some social or political context to these reminiscences.
Reopened Govenhill Baths to be the venue for 'immersive' drama
Adrian Howells on his new National Theatre of Scotland production 'Lifeguard'
Pooling together: Govanhill Baths complex is reviving a Glasgow community
Govenhill Baths, Glasgow from Friday October 5, 2012, until Saturday October 27, 2012. More info: http://www.govanhillbaths.com/