Manchester favourite Ali Matthews returns with a premiere of Mushroom Language: A Fungal Gothic at the Lowry for two nights only, bringing to life the haunting life-cycles of mushrooms (they are more like us than we realize).
Mushroom Language is a devised eco-horror piece of theatre about the cycles that shape us – eruption, reproduction and decay. As two performers learn and act out ‘mushroom language’ through ritual and power dynamics, they move between conversation, roleplay and physical theatre to create a production that is both eerie and darkly funny.
It is at The Lowry, Salford on Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th October, with Thursday evening’s performance also available as a live stream.
Featuring lichen love stories, spore shoot outs and mushroom mulches, Mushroom Language explores the third kingdom on earth, Fungi, who are more like us than we realise. Dreamlike conversations and movement sequences are underpinned by original music from composer Hannah Miller of the Moulettes and the production is enhanced by playful design by Rūta Irbīte.
Ali Matthews, lead artist and performer said:
“Mushrooms offer us a lens into a more sustainable future, but nature is hilarious and terrifying. This show is an homage to this weird third kingdom, and we’re delighted to share its gothic flavour so close to Halloween – for nature and horror fans alike, as well as those interested in new music and conversations around sustainability.”
Mushroom Language will feature a post-show discussion and Q&A with the creative team alongside The Lowry Senior Producer Antonia Beck and Dr Nathan Smith, (FLS, Senior Curator of Botany at National Museum of Wales and British Mycological Society Recording Network Coordinator on the 25th October immediately after the show in the space.
Mushroom Language has been produced with The Lowry by lead artist Ali Matthews and has been supported by partners including Wainsgate Dances, Dartington Arts, Slung Low and New Adelphi Theatre & science partners including Live Wild and the British Mycological Society. It is supported by Arts Council England.
Event Listing
Mushroom Language: A Fungal Gothic
Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th October
Wed & Thu 8pm (plus Live Stream available Thurs)
16+
Tickets from £12
https://thelowry.com/whats-on/
