I’ve been here since 1922. Yes, stationed here July 4th – American Independence Day – funny that. The irony is not lost on me, believe you me. I shall be your superior officer for a while, but don’t worry, I’m not one to pull rank. We do this polishing duty for one hour each day. The rest of the time we shuffle and look crazed. They prefer it that way.
Set in 1920’s England, Airswimming is based on the true story of two women (Miss Kitson and Miss Baker), who have been incarcerated in a hospital for the ‘criminally insane’ for not conforming to society’s rules. Forgotten by their families, who put them there, and not released until the 1970’s, Dora and Persephone adopt alter-egos, Dorph and Porph, to enact their fantasies and survive the silence of incarceration. By turns very funny and moving, against a backdrop of Doris Day’s beautiful songs, Airswimming reminds us of the women of these generations and their continuous struggle for the right to make choices about their own lives.
Admirably clear and unsentimental – trips the light fantastic … effortlessly gliding from the desperately funny to the desperately sad.
The Guardian
Charlotte Jones's play is as funny as it is chilling…intelligent and witty dialogue.
British Theatre Guide
Starring, directed by: Jacqueline Braun, Joanna Godwin-Seidl
Set: Laura D. Mitchell
Production: Ine Gundersveen, Gernot Ottowitz, Thomas Schluet, Dave Moskin
Performance licence: Casarotto Ramsay & Associates
https://viennatheatreproject.com