40/40
«40/40» is an inspiring, insightful and moving celebration of Katherina Radeva’s 40 years as a woman, a migrant and an artist. Claiming space on a dance floor for one, she writes stories of her past, present and future, in speech, in electrical tape and in movement. From the little girl dancing at her parents’ student parties, to the teenage rhythm gymnast who was body-shamed, to the creative who refuses to be categorised we see a choreography of all the joys and sorrows of 40 years. Radeva is an irresistible performer whose authenticity and generosity shines in this life-affirming piece. Join the middle-aged woman revolution by dancing, claiming and reclaiming the beautiful, glorious and messy complexities of womanhood.
Katherina Radeva is a performance maker and scenographer. Her work as co-artistic director of Two Destination Language, alongside Alister Lownie has extensively toured in the UK and internationally. Often using biographical starting points the work is punchy and political. As a first generation migrant from Eastern Europe she often foregrounds experiences of migration, embracing and celebrating cultural differences, identity, boundaries and joy.
Following the performance on 8.5. there will be a discussion with the artists at 20:10.
Easy Read
Katherina is 40 and looks back on her life so far. She's often been picked on for her body and she was not taken seriously. But now she is celebrating her life and her story in her own show.
Surtitles
The English spoken text is surtitled in German and English. The surtitles contain additional information about sounds and music.
Sign Language Interpretation
The performance on May 7th will be translated into Swiss German Sign Language (DSGS). Places with good visibility to the interpreters are marked.
Interpreter: Mara Flückiger
Deaf Interpreter: Denise Ledermann
Here you will find an explanatory video in DSGS for the event.
For people with mobility disabilities
The Dampfzentrale is wheelchair accessible. Stairlifts are available to the foyer, the hall Kesselhaus, and the toilets. An Access Friend will be happy to assist you with the lifts, or you can use the Eurokey. The theater has an accessible toilet.
Relaxed Performance
This is a Relaxed Performance.
Freedom of movement and audience noises are explicitly welcome. You are welcome to take breaks at any time, leave the theatre hall, and return when you’re ready.
Alternative seating (seats, cushions, etc.) is available. Beanbags are available in the front row for you to sit on. You can sit, lie down, or change seats during the performance.
Please note that Relaxed Performances focus on adapting the theatre environment, not the content of the performance. Check the content notes and sensory trigger warnings for further details.
Content notes
This production thematizes body shaming, conformity, and anger, exploring how they shape personal and societal experiences.
This production contains nudity.
This production features some audience participation, though participation is entirely optional.
Sensory Triggers
Loud noises and sounds
Flashing lights
Heavy breathing
Special Check-In
We offer a special check-in option. If for any reason you'd like to avoid the crowded foyer, require a specific seat, assistance due to a mobility impairment, or would like to be picked up at the bus stop, please contact us in advance. A member of our team will accompany you according to your needs. Register: checkin@auawirleben.ch
Access Friend
At the Dampfzentrale, Access Friends welcome audiences and are available before, during, and after performances. These people are identified and wear purple vests. Questions about accessibility can be directed to the Access Friends.
Social Story
Social stories are used as a tool to prepare people for a public event, such as a theater performance. Our social stories provide a detailed description of what to expect at the venue and the customs that apply there. You can find the (German) PDF of the «40/40» social story here.
- Created, conceived, designed and performed by
- Katherina Radeva
- Dramaturgy
- Alister Lownie
- Lighting
- Marty Langthorne
- Choreographic Support
- Liz Aggiss, Lucy Suggate, Rachel Krische
- Sound Support
- Tim Blazdell
- Production Manager
- Helen Mugridge