It’s My Birthday!
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IT’S MY BIRTHDAY! is a contemporary dance-theatre work exploring self-worth, visibility, and the emotional residue of 'being othered' within social structures that reward conformity.
The piece examines how birthdays—moments designed to celebrate the individual—can become emotionally complex sites where joy, anxiety, shame, pride, and grief coexist. Rather than presenting a linear narrative, the work unfolds through physical and textual states that oscillate between playfulness and unease.
The choreography is shaped by a commitment to responsive movement, prioritising internal listening and the authentic physical expression of the performers. Utilising a multidisciplinary team the work creates a space where individual authenticity is reclaimed through collective action.
IT’S MY BIRTHDAY! invites audiences into a reflective and physically rigorous dialogue about what it means to belong and be seen in a world that rewards conformity.
Cast & Collaborators: Coming Soon
Artistic Director: Julian Nichols
Special thanks to funders and supporters:
Arts Council England
Canada Council for the Arts
Partners:
The Source at University of East London
Poplar Union
Studio Wayne McGregor
Chisenhale Dance Space
FieldWorks Dance
FAQs
Do you cater for accessibility needs?
The Studio Theatre is located on the ground floor with accessible doorways. For any accessibility needs please contact the venue team directly so we can understand your requirements. The venue team is available at Tel: 0208 223 3033 or please email thesourcehires@uel.ac.uk.
What is included in the ticket price?
This ticket gives you general entry to the venue and film. You can choose where you sit in the Studio Theatre.
Is parking available at The Source?
There are some blue badge spaces in the surrounding area however additional parking options can be found on surrounding residential roads, nearby multi-story car park and also in Westfield Shopping Centre. Please be advised that drivers park at their own risk.
Are food and drink available at The Source?
Light refreshments will be available to purchase from Cafe at The Source.
Is there an interval during the film?
There is no interval. However, you are free to leave and re-enter the Studio Theatre as needed.
Can I access the venue before the show?
Yes, the venue will be open and you are welcome to wait in the café area.
Do I need to bring my ticket to the event?
Yes. This will help us register you quickly on arrival. Tickets can be presented on paper or mobile devices.
Do I need to bring ID to the event?
ID may be required to help identify you if you forget your ticket.
What do I do if I can no longer attend the event?
Please contact the venue bookings team as soon as possible to inform them of your change in circumstances. However, due to the highly subsidised ticket price, refunds are not available. The team can be contacted at: thesourcehires@uel.ac.uk .