Credit: Denis Ntege
A woman struggling with low self-esteem finds herself being drawn into a controlling relationship. This powerful new play interweaves spoken-word poetry with Zambian oral storytelling traditions to tell a gripping story about cultural identity and the connection between mental health and coercive control.
“17 minutes. That’s how long it takes to die by train. I looked it up once”
Chilufya - you can call her Chili - doesn’t know whether she is coming or going. Which makes perfect sense since her name literally means ‘the lost one’ and lost is exactly how she’s felt most of her life. Struggling with low self-esteem and a waning sense of self, she finds herself being drawn into a dangerously controlling relationship. Interweaving spoken-word theatre with Zambian oral storytelling traditions this dark comedy is a solo show exploring coercive control, cultural identity, and mental health.
"This is an intriguing one" - The Independent
Winner: Eclipse Award 2023
Winner: Keep It Fringe Fund Award 2023
Shortlisted: LET Award 2023
Date: Wednesday 26th July 2023
Time: 7.30pm-8.30pm
Duration: 1 hour
Age Guidance: 16+
Specific Content: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, scenes of a sexual nature, scenes of sexual violence, strong language/swearing.
Please e-mail us ahead of the day to ensure we are aware of and can facilitate any access needs.
Creative Team:
Writer/Director: Mwansa Phiri
Performer: Yaisa
Lighting Designer: Alex Forey
Sound Designer and Composer: Freddie Lewis
Video and Projection Designer: Virginie Taylor
Communications Lead: Kizzi Barazetti
Trainee Assistant Producer: Sabrina Darlington