About

Split Britches: Unexploded Ordnances (UXO)

Combining a Dr Strangelove-inspired performance with a daring forum for public conversation, Unexploded Ordnances (UXO) explores ageing, anxiety, hidden desires and how to look forward when the future is uncertain.

In our Situation Room, twelve audience members are invited to become a Council of Elders to discuss the global issues of the day, as the company weave in satirical insights and humour.

Adopting the characters of a bombastic general and ineffectual president, Peggy Shaw and Lois Weaver of Split Britches lace this interactive piece with both playful urgency and lethargy, encouraging discussion about the political landscape. The pioneering theatre-makers see unexploded ordnances as a metaphor for the unexplored potential in elders and hope to uncover buried resources in us all.

'Planes carrying nukes, the terrifying sound of life atomized into static noise: “Unexploded Ordnances (UXO)” feels very much of the minute...It is also wonderful to watch the rapport Ms. Weaver and Ms. Shaw have forged over shared decades.’ - The New York Times. Full review here. 

3pm - 5pm, Split Britches: Meet and Greet 

Ahead of their performances of Unexploded Ordnances (UXO) at Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts on the 13th and 14th of March, Split Britches will be hosting a ‘meet and greet’ for friends, artists, and members of the local community in our cafe-bar. Join Lois and Peggy in conversation as they discuss the themes of the performance, how we can act upon our unexplored desires, how we age in a world with an uncertain future, and enjoy a cup of tea and some cake! 3pm - 5pm on Sunday 11th March, at Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts’ cafe. This is event is free, drop in and open to all. 

Performed by Lois Weaver and Peggy Shaw

Written by Lois Weaver, Peggy Shaw and Hannah Maxwell

Created in collaboration with Jo Palmer, Claire Nolan, Matt Delbridge, Alex Legge, Edythe Woolley and Meghan Hodgson

Technical Design - Jo Palmer

Video Content Design - Claire Nolan 

Design Consultant - Matt Delbridge 

Sound Design - Vivian Stoll 

Choreography Consultant - Stormy Brandenberger 

Producer - Alex Legge 

Unexploded Ordnances (UXO) was created and developed from 2016-2018 through a series of residencies with elders and artists in London, New York, Los Angeles and beyond.

Development supported by In Company Collective with additional support from Arts Council England, the Barbican, Doris Duke Foundation, University of Richmond & Queen Mary University of London.

General Information

Guests with Mobility Impairments

Guests who use a wheelchair or experience mobility impairments are asked to call the box office on 01273 678822 or email info@attenboroughcentre.com so that we can assist you to find the best seat to suit your requirements.

Pay What You Decide

There is an allocation of Pay What You Decide (PWYD) tickets available to guests on a first-come, first-served basis. Come and see the show without paying anything in advance, and then pay what you think is appropriate at the end of the show. Maximum of four PWYD tickets per person. Please phone the box office on 01273 678822 or email info@attenboroughcentre.com for further information.

Concessions

The Concessions rate is available for students, University of Sussex students, Over 60s, and people in receipt of JSA or DLA/PIP. Proof of eligibility may be required on the door or at the box office (if collecting).  Personal assistance tickets are available for free for customers who would otherwise be unable to attend the venue. Please contact the box office on 01273 678822 or email info@attenboroughcentre.com for further information.

Box Office Opening Times

The box office (phone line and drop-in service) is open from 10am to 4pm, Mondays to Fridays. The box office is also open one hour before the advertised show start time.