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The Measure of Breath

If Breathlessness is an invisible condition, what would happen if it put on a sparkly suit, and took centre stage?

What would it say?

In The Measure of Breath, circus artists Maddie McGowan and Ziggy Slingsby draw on the research of Havi Carel, from the University of Bristol and the Life of Breath Project, to explore the effects of pathological breathlessness on an individual’s life; from the collapse of the everyday sense of bodily control, to the altered trust in our bodies.

Join a surreal circus journey into experimental aerial choreography, text and imagery in an experience which is exquisite, delicate and raw. A piece that gives voice to this silent condition. The Measure of Breath also builds upon 'Unseen pathways', a project led by Ziggy Slingsby which asks whether greater awareness of the unseen body - our organs, fluids and nervous system support - can offer a different agenda for devising aerial performance.

Commissioned for Feel It Festival, a collaboration between The Elizabeth Blackwell Institute for Health Research, Life of Breath Project and Circomedia; Supported by Arts Council England

Performed and Devised by Maddie McGowan and Ziggy Slingsby

Directed by Mish Weaver

Music by Isnaj Dui

Lighting by Anna Barrett

Commission Lead and academic consultant Professor Havi Carel

Producer Georgia Bladen 

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