Always on
This project successfully funded on 1st December 2025, you can still support them with a donation.
Tartarus R&D
London, Greater London, United Kingdom
Aim
To research, develop and share an extract of a new show
It's very exciting!!
Tartarus is an alternative, gig-theatre retelling of the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, exploring queer identity and romance through the lens of one of the greatest love stories of all time.
The concept grew out of songs I wrote and started performing at open mic nights across London this year. I wanted to make something to tie them together, and realised that they all spoke to themes of love, relationships, queerness and self-discovery. A twisted and fantastical romance myth full of epic journeys and border-crossings seemed like the perfect fit!
The story begins when Eurydice decides not to follow Orpheus back from the dead. When I was fourteen, my last ever girlfriend also went cold on me, and when I went to confront her, she broke things off, telling me she wasn’t physically attracted to me. When Orpheus hears these same words from Eurydice, he experiences a crisis of self, realising that maybe he doesn’t find her attractive either, and may in fact prefer men. What follows is a lyrical exploration of his coming out and into himself by way of the many tortured men of the underworld: Sisyphus, Tantalus, Narcissus and even Hades himself.
My team and I have been invited to workshop some of the material at Omnibus Theatre in Clapham to develop the text and music and see how it works on a stage. Part of this will involve a sharing, where we will invite audiences to see the piece and offer feedback, allowing us to connect with venues and start conversations that could ultimately make the show a reality. This is where you come in.
In order to make the most of this opportunity, we need to pay two actors, a director, a producer, dramaturg and a designer to create something that really stands out. Omnibus have already committed free rehearsal space, marketing and their creative expertise, as well as a performance slot on 1 Dec. They really believe in the team and the project, and with the right opportunities to grow, it could become something really special.
We are asking for a total of £2,000 to cover our team's work, additional rehearsal space, design and equipment. Any amount you can contribute would be hugely appreciated, and go towards giving this project the best chance of flourishing.
Please do save the date, and consider donating. We would be so grateful for your support!
Funding method
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made