Hold On Let Go

Alex is 56. Luca is half his age. Alex has an encyclopaedia in his head. Luca has one on her phone.

Alex can’t recall his mother’s voice or most of the 1980s. But, he can instantly bring to mind his mother’s cooking and his family’s stories of the Spanish Civil War. 

Luca worries that she can’t remember the important stuff – things that might make the world a better place. Her journey sucks her into a black hole crammed full of everything she’s ever forgotten.

A poignant, personal meditation on the gaps in our memories, Hold On Let Go asks, what do we want to pass on to future generations?

It’s a show that bakes bread, dances on the kitchen table and wonders what is left when words are gone.

The creative team brings together Paul Smith (Maxïmo Park), Selina Thompson (salt.) and Liv Lorent (BalletLORENT), collaborating for the first time with Unfolding Theatre.

Thanks

The creative process for Hold On Let Go was informed by a group of amazing older people from community organisation, Chain Reaction. Together we explored what we remember and forget in our life stories. You can hear a few of their memories on the show’s radio station, hosted by Paul Smith. Parents and babies at Barnardo's Family Hub at Byker Sands Centre also explored how we capture, preserve and pass on our memories. All of their contributions helped inspire this show.

Presented in association with LittleMighty.

Creative Team

Director
Annie Rigby

Performers
Alex Elliott, Luca Rutherford

Writer
Luca Rutherford

Designer
Simon Henderson

Songwriter & Recorded Voice
Paul Smith

Sound Designer
Mariam Rezaei

Dramaturg
Selina Thompson

Choreographer
Liv Lorent

Lighting Designer
Nick Rogerson

Photography
Richard Lakos

Graphic Design
Wayne Gamble

Developed at Battersea Arts Centre and Northern Stage, and with older people at Chain Reaction and families at Byker Sands Centre, Newcastle. Supported by Joicey Trust and Catherine Cookson Charitable Trust.