Performing Older Tyneside Voices
Sharing new linguistic research findings through performance.
Language variation in later life
We used interview data which looked into language variation in older adults to inform the research. This then helped us develop the research based theatre performance.
True life stories
Using the recorded delivery technique, actors re-told Tyneside interviewees’ true life stories in their own words and accents.
Findings
The performance showcased:
- the richness of traditional Tyneside English
- new research findings
- these further confronted audience members’ linguistic biases and promoted linguistic diversity
- the ability to create cross-generational understanding and empathy
- by sharing older adults’ lived experiences of growing up and growing old in Tyneside
Project contributions
The project was co-developed and co-produced with community members and theatre professionals.
It was framed around stories shared by older adults during interviews.
Creativity and Imagination
The initiative demonstrates that data and findings from sociolinguistic research projects can be used creatively and imaginatively to:
- confront pervasive language biases against older adults
- give a platform to marginalised voices
- promote social inclusion and foster age-friendly communities
- contribute to the cultural and social life of communities.
Original concept & researcher
- Dr Heike Pichler
Creative team
- Heike Pichler - dramaturg
- Steve Gilroy- writer & director
- James Froment- technical & stage manager
- Kev Tweedy - lighting
- Chris Connell
- Dave Johns
- Jackie Lye
- Sharon Percy -performers
Collaborators
- Alphabetti Theatre
Funder
- Newcastle University
- HaSS Faculty Impact Fund