'Philautia' (Greek for self love) This show is an act of self love, a catharsis, a reclamation of my body as my own. This is a show that strongly resonates with me but also, I hope, allows me to be a representative of women, for the audience. Philautia is an audio based statement on how it is to be a woman today. It explores the topics of misogyny, sexual assault, rape and various forms of male violence towards women. Philautia is a bold piece of theatre that comments on the state of the world we live in. It is comprised of edits of my own voice and the voices of women I know talking openly about what it feels like to be a woman and their own experiences with sexual assault. Philautia is a piece of challenge theatre, one of my aims with this work is to challenge the audience, it should not be enjoyable to watch. It should be uncomfortable, to reflect the reality. This is not a dramatisation, this is the truth, this is real stories from real women. Another aim is to install hope. I know that if you come to see this show you will experience something vulnerable and it will definitely make you think and feel something.

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Show me the charities

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now