“Planes carrying nukes, the terrifying sound of life atomized into static noise: Unexploded Ordnances (UXO) feels very much of the minute” (New York Times). The legendary Split Britches return to Bristol with a performance exploring ageing, anxiety, and the end of the world.
Combining a Dr Strangelove-inspired performance with a daring forum for public conversation, this latest work from this internationally acclaimed NYC performance duo lifts the lid on hidden desires and asks how to look forward when the future is uncertain.
As the bombastic general and ineffectual president, Split Britches’ Peggy Shaw and Lois Weaver lace this engaging piece with both playful urgency and lethargy, weaving together a discussion of the political landscape with satirical insights and humour. Championing the unexplored potential of elders, and the undiscovered resources within us all, join this Situation Room-turned-performance to tear into the global issues of the day.
“Unexploded Ordnances is the most joyful of wakes, a celebration of the precious time we’re given on Earth, and an appeal for us to be better.” (Jose Solis, Stage Buddy USA)
“What does such a desperate scenario call for? A frantic preparation for war? Retreating to the bunkers? Powering up the intergalactic escape pods? [Split Britches] decide otherwise; it is time to consult our elders. The sentiment of the evening rings clear. If we are to combat threats to our world – be it economic collapse, climate change, nuclear holocaust, fascism and so son – we are much much stronger united.” (Georgia Grace, The Badger)
Performed by Lois Weaver and Peggy Shaw
Written by Lois Weaver, Peggy Shaw, and Hannah Maxwell
Technical Design: Jo Palmer
Video Content Design: Claire Nolan
Design Consultant: Matt Delbridge
Sound Design: Vivian Stoll
Choreography Consultant: Stormy Brandenberger
Company Manager: Laura Petree
Producer: Alex Legge
Created in collaboration with Jo Palmer, Claire Nolan, Matt Delbridge, Alex Legge, Sarah Vickery, Edythe Woolley and Meghan Hodgson.
