A Jehovah’s Witness comes to terms with his sexuality in the autobiographical new gig theatre show Birthmarked, presented as part of the Horizon showcase. Written, performed and composed by Brook Tate, and directed by Olivier Award winner Sally Cookson (Jane Eyre, A Monster Calls, National Theatre), Birthmarked follows a young Witness on his journey from door-knocking on the street to finding his feet (and high heels) on the stage.
Birthmarked tells the true story of Brook’s experiences growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness until he was disfellowshipped at the age of 23 because of his sexuality. In a faith that believes Armageddon is imminent, homosexuals will be destroyed, and everyone believes in ‘The Truth’, a young Witness experiences turmoil and pain before discovering his own truth. This funny and moving semi-improvised show follows Brook as he finds the strength to take a leap into the unknown, and shines a light on what it means to be marked… at birth.
Tate is supported live on stage by his five-person band, who multirole as characters in Tate’s journey and incorporate original songs into this story of self-discovery and self-determination.
Brook Tate comments, With a band of pals, a whale, a giraffe, and eventually a tap dancing zebra, I tell my story of being excommunicated from my family’s religion, the Jehovah’s Witnesses, and hope to spread awareness for those who have experienced similar circumstances. The reception from audiences in Bristol was way beyond what I could have expected, and we are thrilled to be able to bring the show back bigger and better as part of the Horizon showcase.
Supported by Frances and Craig Wilson and the Stage One Bursary Scheme for New Producers. Commissioned by Bristol Old Vic and developed in association with MAYK. Originally commissioned by The Wardrobe Ensemble.
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Birthmarked is also supported and part of the Horizon – Performance Created in England showcase for Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
As well as taking Birthmarked to the Edinburgh Fringe, Hannah Smith is also producing The Wardrobe Ensemble’s Mog the Forgetful Cat and Flawbored’s Its a Mother F**king Pleasure.
