The Willow Tree chronicles a fairy tale scene in which the Willow Tree, a personification of Parkinson’s Disease (sung by professional countertenor), a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over years and significantly impacts speech as a result.
For the best experience, watch ‘The making of’ followed by the performance film.
The text was written after hours of discussion with people affected by Parkinsons, their carers and healthcare professionals connected to voice rehabilitation. The Willow Tree is an ancient spirit who steals and consumes the voices, identity and soul of humans in order to survive. This scene is the story of one man who fights back against the Willow Tree. The man is performed by three voices: a professional baritone, and two performers who have Parkinson’s.
Counter tenor: Iestyn Davies
Bass: Brindley Sherratt
Voice: Stephen Panke
Voice: Peter Thompson
Piano: Hannah Conway
Music: Hannah Conway
Words: Hazel Gould
Sound production: Andrew Mellor
Filmmaker: Claudia Lee
Creative producer: Katherine Wilde
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