TOURING
GRIEF IS THE THING WITH FEATHERS
Work like this should be seen by the widest possible audience.
- Max Porter
Production Overview
Touring 2027–2028, Grief Is the Thing with Feathers is Beyond Words Dance Theatre's tour-ready dance theatre production.
A powerful reimagining of Max Porter's celebrated novel, Grief Is the Thing with Feathers brings words and bodies into evocative dialogue, rendering grief as fully kinetic and alive. Performed by a five-strong cast, the production combines powerful ensemble choreography, an original score, and striking visual design to create an immersive theatrical experience exploring loss, resilience and the complex realities of grief.
Developed with wellbeing at its core, the work is supported by a dedicated team to ensure audiences can engage with this emotionally complex material in a safe and supported environment.
Dimensions
The work is typically staged within a 6m x 8m performance area and has been successfully presented across both intimate studio settings and larger-scale environments. It adapts spatially to different venues while retaining its core intimacy and emotional clarity.
Running length: Approx 75 minutes
Cast: 5 performers
Status: Tour ready.
Development
Following an Arts Council England-funded development phase and performances in Birmingham and Leeds across September-April 2026, Grief Is the Thing with Feathers has been refined for touring and is now available for bookings throughout 2027–2028.
Audience Response
“I've not been moved by dance like that in a very long while. This show is an example of how dance can cut to the core of being human.” Karen Wood, Birmingham show
"I cried twice. At the beginning and at the end. It was a beautiful adaptation and a beautiful performance. It's an incredible piece of work." Erdington Review, Ed King Birmingham show
"Simply captivating, and I loved the movement language too". Angharad Jones, Birmingham show
"This was so incredible. I think you’ve changed some people’s lives…" Audience member, Leeds show
TOUR DATES 2027-2028
Coming soon...
Cast & Creative Team
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Direction & Choreography: Helen Calcutt
Producer: Callum Holt
Wellbeing Manager: Olivia Elford
Rehearsal Direction: Ayesha Fazal
Dramaturg: Shelley Eva Haden
Musical compositions: Dominic O'Sulivan, Jobe Baker Sullivan, Barnaby Taylor,
'Temple:' Written and performed by Jean du Voyage, courtesy of Jarring Effects
Musical edits: Anna Russel-Price
Production Manager: Helen Mugridge
Lighting Design: Jason Addison
Set & Costume Design: Emma Williamson
Marketing Management: Julia White
