Strange behaviours leap between a community of women, self-replicating and spreading like a bolt of lightning. The memory of students in an empty school auditorium, laughter at a funeral, an impatient canker sore. Bodies twitch, meow, laugh and jive as the dance at the end of the world begins. Maybe it’s her imagination, or maybe it’s the hormones...
Welcome to Strange Contagions, a devised, collaborative theatre piece that explores the weird and mystifying episodes of mass hysteria throughout history, particularly in female-centric communities. Returning after its premiere in the SPRINT Festival, Strange Contagions takes a creative look at the mythology behind psychogenic illness and what happens when a group of women rebel against their constraints.
Tobi King Bakare and this theatre deserve a shout-out for such a young, diverse audience. There is so much talk about audiences being full of over 60s and why, why can’t theatres get the crowds in to reflect society in general? Well, I’m happy to say that on a rainy Thursday evening, the theatre was completely full.
Caiti Grove on Before I Go in CPT's Spring 2023 season London Theatre Reviews
