“Waves: A Heartfelt Journey Through Girlhood, Grief, and Growing Up”

“What is grief but love enduring?”

Waves is an uplifting new production that navigates the complexities of childhood loss, the power of sisterhood, and the nostalgia of growing up in 2010s London—all wrapped in poetry, humor, and innovative storytelling.

Set against the backdrop of South East London in 2016, the play follows three sisters—Tansy, Mae, and Jasmine—and their older cousin, Cleo, as they cope with life after their mother’s death. In a home where grief lingers silently, the sisters find comfort in one another. However, their lives take a dramatic turn as their father relocates them to New Zealand, forcing Cleo to confront the emotional and physical distances that come with this change.

Fast forward to 2020: the sisters have transformed—their accents have faded, childhood memories become hazy, and their identities evolve with the passage of time. Waves delves into the intricate feelings surrounding grief, belonging, and recovery, posing the question: What does “home” truly signify when it is steeped in loss?

Fusing poetry, movement, and comedy, Waves is a touching and joyful tribute to girlhood, memory, and the indelible connections we carry with us, no matter where life leads.

The play was developed over six months as part of the National Youth Theatre’s 2025 Writers’ Collective and ranked among the top 10.5% of scripts submitted for the BBC Writers Room open call.

Target Audience: Young adults (ages 18–35), particularly women and non-binary individuals who resonate with themes of sisterhood, identity, and the untidy nature of grief that accompanies losing loved ones and leaving home. Perfect for those who appreciate fresh writing and heartfelt theatre infused with humor and movement. And yes—CBBC fans who danced in the kitchen and still cherish memories of Tracy Beaker, this is for you!

Performance Details:

• Venue: Lion and Unicorn Theatre
• Dates: 14th, 15th, and 16th August | 7 PM
• Tickets: £14 / £12 Concessions. Purchase tickets here.

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