Talking Shop Ensemble Present RAPIDS At The Everyman

Exploring instances of disclosure and the presence of stigma in the lives of men and women who are HIV+ in Ireland today, Rapids by Shaun Dunne and Talking Shop Ensemble is a new work that looks to playfully and respectfully make the private public.

Through the making of Rapids, the company have collaborated with several groups from the HIV+ community, from young men in rural Ireland to migrant women seeking asylum. This form-flipping piece of documentary theatre will take you through the myriad of perspectives and experiences that compound what it means to live positive in this country.

Rapids is a show for anyone who has ever been affected by issues around HIV and disclosure and for anyone who has an interest in the psychology around health and patient care in Ireland. In addition, the show engages audiences interested in experimental or contemporary theatre that is innovative and creative in its approach to storytelling. It is a piece of documentary theatre but also a highly entertaining story told by charming and skilled actors.

Writing of the production, Shaun Dunne said:

A lot of people here are afraid to speak about their HIV status. Many people refuse to even say the words. For two years, we have met with men and women of all ages, across all spectrums and we asked them to open up about something they seldom open up about. We promised that we would never betray their confidence and that we would make sure they were safe. When they started talking, they wouldn't stop.

Rapids comes to The Everyman, Cork, for two nights only, Wednesday 20th Thursday 21st February. Tickets available from everymancork.com or from the box office, phone 021 4501 673.

Produced in association with Project Arts Centre and funded through an Arts Council Touring Grant. This project is supported by HIV Ireland, ACT UP Dublin and Mermaid Arts Centre.

'A sophisticated and bracing piece on living with HIV in Ireland A work as involving and compassionate as Rapids could be the beginning of an antidote' Irish Times

'The show is a space for stories to be heard that would not have been told otherwise.' RTE Culture

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