Opium Clippers
The tea trade of the 19th century is directly linked to the Asian opium epidemic. Although this may not have been started deliberately and maliciously by European traders, it proved to be extremely profitable for them. A mechanism that occurs again and again in capitalism. «Opium Clippers» is a lecture performance that takes us through the history of the tea and opium trade using five hand-painted tea sets. Elite trading families and large properties and the European desire for exotic goods led to power and exploitation. While Neja Tomšič tells these stories, she performs a Chinese tea ceremony for each of the 10 audience members.
After the performances there will be an opportunity to talk to Neja Tomšič.
Neja Tomšič works as an interdisciplinary artist and combines drawing, photography, poetry, performance and music in her work. She understands histories as a maps of starting points and connections, which also comes through in «Opium Clippers».
For people with mobility disabilities
Schlachthaus Theater is accessible barrier-free and has a barrier-free toilet.
Special Check-In
We offer the possibility of a Special Check-In. If for any reason you would like to avoid the crowded foyer, have trouble getting into the hall with the crowd, need a special seat or require assistance due to a mobility restriction, please contact us in advance (silja.gruner@auawirleben.ch). Someone from the team will accompany you according to your needs.
Social Story
Social Stories are used as a tool to prepare people for public events such as theatre performances. In our Social Stories you will find a description for each performance, what situation to expect at the venue and what customs apply there. You can find the PDF for the Social Story of «Opium Clippers» here.
- Concept, Painting, Performance
- Neja Tomšič
- Ceramics
- Anja Slapničar
- Music
- Gašper Torkar
Production: Gledališče Glej und Neja Tomšič (bis 2018: MoTA – Museum of Transitory Art)