In This is Not a Penguin we are invited to peer inside a remote research outpost in Antarctica in 1958. With costume design by Joshua Cartmell and sound design by Ethan Aldwinkle, Watson’s work explores existential themes of isolation and mortality through a lens of absurd, deadpan and silent film-esque humour.
This is Not a Penguin was Watson’s first stage commission as part of the Young Associate Programme at Sadler’s Wells in 2021; received with critical acclaim, the work marked their UK debut.
Performance History:
Sadler’s Wells Lillian Baylis (2021)
Concept and Creation: John-William Watson Performance and Co-Creation: Beth Emmerson, Heather Birley
Sound Design: Ethan Aldwinkle Set Design: John-William Watson Lighting Design: Ryan Joseph Stafford
Rehearsal Direction & Creative Consultant: Jasmine Lily Norton Design Consultant & Costume Design: Joshua Cartmell
Commissioned by Sadler’s Wells
Special thanks to mentor Caroline Finn
Photography by Camilla Greenwell
Trailer
“Highly cinematic… entertaining”
— Number 9 Reviews