The term ‘Suzy Homemaker’ is used as a derisive reference to any woman with habits linked to stereotypical domestic activities traditionally done by women. Suzy Homemaker was a line of miniature functional toy household appliances produced by Topper Toys, and launched in 1966. It taught girls how to be the perfect housewife, just like their mother. In this performance we see women throughout history trapped in a role they did not ask for, they had no choice. Domestic Bliss quickly turns into a distorted nightmare. Let’s meet the characters!
Susannah is an Edwardian socialite in 1903 who is introduced to the Suffragette movement before police quash the revolution.
Ms. S. is a Burlesque performer from the late 1920’s/early 1930’s living a double life between her natural wallflower personality and her stage persona.
Suzy is a 1950’s housewife that has more to her than meets the eye… She starts to feel the societal pressures of perfection and slowly begins to crumble.
None of this would be possible without the support from my amazing team:
Producer: Callum Holt
Mentor and Dramaturg: Jennifer Auger
Movement/Rehearsal Director: Stefania Pinato
Sound Designer/Composer: Alice Gilmour
Movement Specialists: Isabel Baquero and Jenny Claire
Historical Consultant: Harriet Bradbury
Costume Designer: Amelia Sierevogel
Voiceover artists: Phoebe Smith and Dan Mallaghan
Thank you to Arts Council England, Kala Sangam, Enable Us Project, Lawrence Batley Theatre, The Dance Studio Leeds, Displace Yourself Theatre, Abinitio School of Dance, Adele Taylor School of Dance and Leeds University Suzy Homemaker is Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
I am thrilled to announce that my residency with Enable Us Project had been extended by another year! I have found their support during 21/22 extremely valuable and I would not have been able to continue developing Suzy Homemaker without their advice, help and opportunities.
“The Enable Us Project was started in 2017. It provides a platform within the University of Sheffield Performance Venues to bring audiences, artists and the University community together to experience, inspire and be inspired by performances that stimulate thought and broaden understanding, as well as providing access to workshops, training and development. Our artistic programme encourages opportunities for students at the University of Sheffield to work alongside professional arts practitioners, to develop their own creativity and to grow as individuals. We also aim to develop work based learning programmes and internships within the cultural and creative professions.”
Sat 17th June Tabitha Boydell Shoot in ScotlandSOLD OUT
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Tues 4th Jul Tabitha Boydell Shoot in ScarboroughSOLD OUT
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Fri 7th & Sat 8th July 1-2-1’s at Lincoln Photography Studio
I am delighted to announce I am back in Lincoln after our last sold out event!
Contact me directly to book:
Fri 7th Jul:
3.45-4.45
Sat 8th Jul:
11-12
12.15-1.15
1.15-2.15
2.45-3.45
3.45-4.45
5-6
6-7
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Sat 15th July at The Boardroom Dance Duo Day!
I am so giddy to announce my next dance duo event at the famous The Boardroom Derby on Sat 15th July 2023 As always with my events you can expect excellent organisation, lovely snacks and refreshments, warm and welcoming studio spaces, plenty of shoot time and custom made outfits (I am even hiring some from Leeds Playhouse for this shoot!)
Calling all Photographers! A Dance Duo Photoshoot with myself and the talented Daniel Longhurst. We are both highly trained, seasoned professional dancers that can do both Ballet and Contemporary; allowing for dynamic and versatile shots! Sat 15th July hosted at The Boardroom, Derby. The Boardroom is a large, light studio with stunning original Georgian Features and multiple backdrop options. Studio owner Phil will be on hand all day! https://www.theboardroom.studio/ There will be a good mix of solo and duo work to ensure that all attending get a variety of shots. The days will be divided into 2 sessions with each session having different sets and unique themes. 10am-2pm Max 5 Photographers 3 slots left AM Session Set 1 Floaty Dresses Set 2 Bridgerton Set 3 Black Swan Set 4 Contemporary 3-7pm Max 5 Photographers 5 slots left PM Session Set 1 Floaty Dresses Set 2 Giselle Set 3 Suited and Booted Set 4 Contemporary £140 per session OR £270 for both AM AND PM. £90 deposit or £180 deposit if doing both sessions The price includes: Model Fees, Studio Hire, Lighting and Set Up and Free Tea/Coffee If you have any questions or would like to book please contact me for further information either via this platform or: T: 07504633211 E: ericamulkern1414@gmail.com
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Weds19th and Thurs 20th July at Basford Hurst Cottage Group Shoot
I am so excited to announce I am going to be modelling at Basford Hurst Cottage on Weds 19th and Thurs 20th July 2023. Group sessions max 6 photographers 10-2 2.45-6.45 Absolute bargain price of £60 per 4 hour session You can see some sneak peaks of the location in the image below, this is not one to miss out on! That time of year has the most gorgeous daylight as well.
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LONDON TOUR! 24th-30th July 2023
So excited to announce that after almost 4 years, I am planning on being back in London/surrounding areas for a model tour. I have availability to shoot from 24th-30th July 2023. Open to studio/location shoots. Happy for workshop bookings or 1-2-1. Please get in touch via this platform or: Call/text: 07504633211 E-Mail: ericamulkern1414@gmail.com www.ericamulkern.com
I tend to go to London for work less than once a year, so this is your chance to book! X
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1-2-1’s at JB Studios, South Benfleet, Fri 28th July
Super excited to announce a 1-2-1 studio day at JB Studios, South Benfleet on Fri 28th July
Weds 16th Aug, Group Shoot Tank Space (Underwater)
Image by Earl Grey Hot at Tank Space
You loved our Renaissance events in 2022 – so we decided to go bigger, more dramatic and really pull out all of the stops so that you can create painterly masterpieces!
Join us with a whole new cast of models and amazing set builds and satisfy those classical art cravings. We will have a stunning “Venus” set, sculptural sets and even more across our rain machine and tank with exquisite costuming.
Whether you decide to recreate the work of the greats or take your own Neo-classical twist, this event will be sure to give you everything you need to create images worthy of a gallery.
During this event, you will get the chance to shoot 6 incredible models in two beautifully crafted themed sets.
Event details:
You will be in a group of 4 photographers, switching between the rain and tank sets. As you all switch through the session and work with the models you will get the chance to share ideas, meet new creatives and get inspiration that you can use to get a huge range of photos. You will have the opportunity to select costumes and props from the huge Tankspace wardrobe and completely customise the session with changes of lighting position, and use of a wide range of colour gels, all under the careful guidance of a guest masterclass tutor
I am delighted to announce that I have received funding for a second time from Arts Council England for ‘Suzy Homemaker‘. This will be for a R&D period over the next few weeks to dive into the work further and create even more elements to bring the production to life. I can’t wait to see all 3 characters together in the same space! We are also recruiting for new roles in our ever expanding cohort so keep your eyes peeled.
None of this would be possible without the support from my amazing team:
Producer: Callum Holt
Mentor and Dramaturg: Jennifer Auger
Movement/Rehearsal Director: Stefania Pinato
Sound Designer/Composer: Alice Gilmour
Movement Specialists: Isabel Baquero & Jenny Claire
Historical Consultant: Harriet Bradbury
Costume Designer: Amelia Sierevogel
Thank you to Kala Sangam, Enable Us Project, Lawrence Batley Theatre, The Dance Studio Leeds & Adele Taylor School of Dance for your support over the past few months, we are looking forward to using your studios!
Can’t wait for our outreach programme to commence, watch out for our open class at The Dance Studio Leeds.
Suzy Homemaker is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England
This time last week I was preparing for ‘Suzy Homemaker’ at Lancashire Fringe Festival. The venue was fully packed with not a spare seat in sight. I continue to be overwhelmed by the support I receive for this solo show. It makes all of the sleepless nights worth it. We had 100% positive feedback from the audience which I still can’t wrap my head around!
I also received my first ever review for Suzy Homemaker. I have attached the link below and have included some snippets here:
“A fantastic five star dialogue-free ballet performance.”
“Erica’s imaginative use and repurposing of props actually echoes the function of the Suzy toys themselves.”
“The music is used extremely effectively throughout, often discordantly. Erica isn’t released or liberated by the score, but trapped by it, like a puppet dragged around by the chords.”
“A highly innovative dance, open to multiple interpretations, none of which show the Suzy Homemaker lifestyle in a positive light. The Fringe festival has shown us comedy, science fiction, grief, history, and much more. This was the closest it has come to depicting outright horror, and all the more so for the horror having been all too real for many women trapped in cold, loveless relationships, where they are expected to bake, clean, and look pretty and unquestioningly obedient to the master of the house, cut off from the times and exciting World beyond the kitchen that is no better than a prison cell.”
“Erica Mulkern will undoubtedly go on to greatness in performance. An incredible, unforgettable experience.”
I have been waiting for a few months to announce this exciting project with Mercurial Dance. Introducing FAME GAME
The story so far… There’s something amiss behind the scenes of a new TV talent show, Fame Game. Unlock the clues, solve the puzzles and uncover the mystery behind this site-specific escape hunt across Birmingham city centre.
A fantastic day out with friends or family. Have you got what it takes to be the true star of the show?
I portrayed Natascha: A prima ballerina who grew up in Norway, Natascha’s effortless blend of ballet with contemporary elements leaves the audience – and judges – breathless every time.
You can get your tickets via: https://famegame.tv/ The last dates to solve the puzzle and complete the escape hunt are: Sat, Oct 16th Sun, Oct 17th
Thank you so much to all the team for your amazing work over the days we spent together. You truly made this experience wonderful and it was an honour for me to play the ‘cold’ yet misunderstood Natascha.
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Suzy Homemaker at Leeds Art Gallery Fri 20th August
I am so excited to announce my upcoming shows of Suzy Homemaker at Leeds Art Gallery. This performance is FREE to attend and is a family friendly version of the solo. It will be interactive with the art work and performed 4 times across the day.
Highlight video link of my performances on the day:
“Erica Mulkern presents her new solo work ‘Suzy Homemaker‘.
The term “Suzy Homemaker” is used as a derisive reference to any woman with habits linked to stereotypical domestic activities traditionally done by women. Suzy Homemaker was a line of miniature functional toy household appliances produced by Topper Toys, and launched in 1966. It taught girls how to be the perfect housewife, just like their mother. In this performance we see women throughout history trapped in a role they did not ask for, they had no choice. Domestic Bliss quickly turns into a distorted nightmare.
Dates: Fri 20th August Venue: Leeds Art Gallery, The Headrow, Leeds LS1 3AA Time: 11-11.30am, 12-12.30pm, 1-1.30pm & 2-2.30pm Price: FREE Choreographer/Performer: Erica Mulkern Costume designer: Amelia Sierevogel Props: The House of Foxy Music: Bolero composed by Maurice Ravel. (Performed by the Philadelphia Orchestra) El dia que me quieras composed by Carlos Gardel. (Performed by Bert Alink) Dinheiro haja composed by J. Vesta. (Performed by Banda do Corpo de Bombeiros do Rio de Janeiro) Roses of Picardy composed by Haydn Wood. (Performed by Colonne Orchestra)
Erica would like to thank Abinitio School of Dance, Kala Sangam, Leeds Art Gallery, The Dance Studio Leeds, Tim Walker and Yorkshire Dance for their support and guidance for this performance.
Poster designed by Avneet Cheema. Photos by bravelittleisland at Durham Fringe Festival, Nicola Chippendale and Pete Marsh MBE at Vines Art House.”
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Suzy Homemaker at Durham Fringe Festival Summer 2021
I am delighted to announce my upcoming shows of Suzy Homemaker at Durham Fringe Festival.
“Erica Mulkern presents her new solo work ‘Suzy Homemaker‘.
The term “Suzy Homemaker” is used as a derisive reference to any woman with habits linked to stereotypical domestic activities traditionally done by women. Suzy Homemaker was a line of miniature functional toy household appliances produced by Topper Toys, and launched in 1966. It taught girls how to be the perfect housewife, just like their mother. In this performance we see women throughout history trapped in a role they did not ask for, they had no choice. Domestic Bliss quickly turns into a distorted nightmare.
Dates: 28th, 29th, 30th July & 1st Aug Venue: St Chad’s College Garden, 18 North Bailey, Durham, DH1 3RH Time: Between 14.30-16.00pm Ticket Link: https://thelittleboxoffice.com/durhamfringefestival/book/event/140614 Choreographer/Performer: Erica Mulkern Costume designer: Amelia Sierevogel Props: The House of Foxy Music: Bolero composed by Maurice Ravel. (Performed by the Philadelphia Orchestra) El dia que me quieras composed by Carlos Gardel. (Performed by Bert Alink) Dinheiro haja composed by J. Vesta. (Performed by Banda do Corpo de Bombeiros do Rio de Janeiro) Roses of Picardy composed by Haydn Wood. (Performed by Colonne Orchestra)
Erica would like to thank Abinitio School of Dance, Durham Fringe Festival, Kala Sangam, The Dance Studio Leeds, Tim Walker and Yorkshire Dance for their support and guidance for this performance.
Poster designed by Avneet Cheema. Photos by Nicola Chippendale and Pete Marsh MBE at Vines Art House.”
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Open Source Arts Livestream Performance of Suzy Homemaker. Sun 1st Aug 2021, 7pm (BST)
Suzy Homemaker is live on your screen! There is a livestream show at Open Source Arts as part of their Affordable Theatre Programme. Thank you so much for the amazing opportunity.
We’re very excited to present Suzy Homemaker from emerging Leeds based performance artist and dancer Erica Mulkern as the next show in the Affordable Theatre Programme! The show is supported by LeedsInspired funding and will be livestreaming out on the 1st of August at 7pm.
ABOUT THE SHOW:
The term “Suzy Homemaker” is used as a derisive reference to any woman with habits linked to stereotypical domestic activities traditionally done by women. Suzy Homemaker was a line of miniature functional toy household appliances produced by Topper Toys, and launched in 1966. It taught girls how to be the perfect housewife, just like their mother.
In this performance we see women throughout history trapped in a role they did not ask for, they had no choice. Domestic Bliss quickly turns into a distorted nightmare.
ABOUT OPEN SOURCE ARTS:
Open Source Arts supports emerging grassroots artists to take their shows to the next level- providing space, resources, facilities, expertise, and knowledge.
WHERE THE FUNDS GO:
All proceeds are split between the artist and the venue to help make the arts sustainable for all involved. Your support enables Erica to be paid properly for the work and time they have spent creating and performing the show, meaning that they can continue to create, develop and continue to be a practicing professional artist in Leeds. Your contribution will cover the costs that Open Source Arts pay to continue to support grassroots artists, by giving them a space to perform, with all heating, bills and insurance costs associated with that. The funds will go to the expertise of the team behind the scenes enabling this show to be broadcast at top level quality with video and sound technicians, admin and marketing which are all essential in putting a show together. This enables us to do the same again for artists in the future! Any amount you’re able to contribute is really gratefully received.
SUPPORTING THE ARTS:
Thank you very much for your collaboration by helping us pay the artists involved in producing this event! A diversity of funding models creates more resilience in the sustainability and future of the arts. Through this alternative route where each of us contributes what we can – we all help to strengthen the artistic community in Leeds, create more opportunities for artists, and help to make the arts more sustainable for everyone! Thank you for helping to keep the cultural sector in Leeds alive and well!”
Image by Pete Marsh MBE at Vines Art House
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FUNDING ALERT
I am still in shock to announce this but… I have received funding for my first ever solo work; Trauma and me; a frank conversation.
I am looking forward to diving into this process- wish me luck!
My first performance is Thurs 15th Apr at 8.30pm (the event starts at 8pm so please do tune in, it is FREE!) Theatre Mix @ Home is a live-streamed performance night featuring scripted, devised, spoken word, cabaret, music & more. We’re open minded! All performers will be live-streaming from their own homes and the night will feature a combination of work (and work-in-progress) from artists and creatives. It’s being live-streamed from YouTube and will be completely free. Date: 15/04/2021 Time: 8pm (running time approx 1hr) Our YouTube channel where you will find us on the night: https://bit.ly/3gztK3S Grab yourself a treat, pull up a couch cushion and enjoy some local creative talents. This event has been made possible by funding from The Society for Theatre Research, Arts Council England Project Grants and support from The GAP Arts Project. Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/254562116322070/
TRIGGER WARNING: My solo will explore (sensitively) themes such as; miscarriage, pregnancy, r*pe, domestic violence. If you are unsure if this would be for you but would like to watch please do send me a message and I can talk through how the performance will work and be laid out.
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Constella OperaBallet ‘Spin a Tale’ online premiere, 8th May 2021
Link to the performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fyXYcgFWSI On the 8th May 2021, in partnership with Darley Abbey Day 2021, a collection of performance videos will be released to the public, alongside a trail of oversized bobbins and bunting made by local residents, threaded throughout the village. Free tickets for the premiere are available at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/spin-a-tale-tickets…
Photos by Ray Gumbley, for Constella OperaBallet’s ‘Spin a Tale’, both commissioned by the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.
Team: Alice Bezant, Leo Geyer, Sarah Louise B. Kristiansen, Sebastian Freeburn, Bryony Harrison, Bethan Smith, Erica Mulkern and Rebecca Stead.
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ASHFIELD VIRTUAL ARTS FESTIVAL- TRAUMA AND ME; A FRANK CONVERSATION 29TH-31ST MAY 2021
I am delighted to announce that my solo work ‘Trauma and me; a frank conversation’ will be performed as a part of Ashfield Virtual Arts Festival between 29th-31st May. Tickets are free and can be obtained via this link: https://www.stream-park.co.uk/event-details/ashfield-arts-festival
Here is further information about what the virtual festival will contain: “Ashfield Virtual Arts Festival celebrates the arts, the people and heritage of Ashfield. The festival offers a vibrant and diverse range of art events, ranging from performances, crafts, poetry, storytelling and more! Explore the various events throughout the park, such as, The Byron and Ada Lovelace stage. Here you can watch performances from poets, musicians, actors and dancers throughout the festival. Take a look at The Hidden valley’s gallery and see the beautiful art work from painters, sculptures, photographers and more! Spend some time at the Lindley’s Mill workshop tent to watch tutorials on all things crafty. Learn about the wonderful heritage of Ashfield in the Annesley hall and old church site. If you enjoy meeting others and connecting with local creatives, it’ll be work visiting the Miners wheel chat area for a virtual social. We’ve also had some press release by the Mansfield chad who got in touch to amplify the festival and showcasing some of the artists involved.” https://www.chad.co.uk/news/people/call-for-mansfield-and-ashfield-artists-writers-and-creatives-for-virtual-festival-3226034?fbclid=IwAR24qyJXCZJADeNSz_d_BQWrd2YMH1UIvwiWrwHB_F3YtL3FQlnUg2DxakE
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MEDEA INSIDE LIVESTREAM (14TH, 15TH AND 16TH MAY)
Photo by Eleanor Wheatley
Finally able to announce the release of MEDEA INSIDE (keep reading for the livestream details below)
In February 2020 I was cast as Medea in a live dance/theatre performance. I couldn’t wait to get started. The pandemic pushed our show back, and back and you guessed it, back again- until it was no longer possible. As a team we adapted the show to be made into an online film with the brilliant guidance of Dionysia Bouzioti.
Medea is a character that allowed me to tap into my Greek heritage and I am honoured to portray this wild and unworldly woman. She is misunderstood by many in the theatre/philosophy community. She is called a ‘beast’ a ‘murderer’ an ‘unfit mother’. This show shines a light on who she really is, underneath it all. It is raw, uncomfortable and fitting for the current climate. Thank you Medea, you’ve always been a part of me. It’s time I share your story.
MEDEA INSIDE is a hybrid film adaptation of Euripides’ most famous tragedy focusing on the concepts of suffering, imprisonment, and violence. MEDEA INSIDE was due to be performed on stage in June 2020, yet the pandemic hit and it is now reinvented in a hybrid online film for your screen. Non-professional equipment, cameras operated by the performers themselves or their housemates, interiors of their private spaces and family houses construct a very private ‘backstage’ world of a Medea created amidst a global pandemic. Scattered across the world, the cast was directed remotely by Dionysia Bouzioti.
The film is extraordinary given the circumstances it was created and the quality of work behind it, but it deserves even more attention as it examines the inner reality of the suffering body. Based on Euripides’ atrocious tragedy, MEDEA INSIDE narrates the emotional journey of Medea as embodied by three women, thus giving experiential agency to the Chorus as her societal reflection. The film draws parallels with our recent (or current) reality of imprisonment and isolation, as well as the increase of domestic violence against women during the extended lockdowns.
Available to diverse audiences! The production does not use speech to communicate, but body presence and movement as a universal language. A low-budget home filmed gem of postmodern textures, original sound, and great suspense not to be missed! We advise you to use your headphones for a better experience!
Any donations would be deeply appreciated to cover the filmmaking costs and keep us going! Please visit the ticket link to donate or contact us for details. Thank you for supporting us! Enjoy MEDEA INSIDE at the comfort of your home!
You can follow us on FB: @dbartprojects Instagram: @resilience_company E-mail: diabouzio@gmail.com or companyresilience@gmail.com”
Collaboration performance with Desmond Clarke in Partnership with The Arc Project
Link to the performance: https://youtu.be/OeLWcl55tcA Desmond Clarke and I have been working together throughout the lockdowns in partnership with The Arc Project to create our first work together. You can see our piece premiering LIVE on the 16th April at 7:30pm BST.
“Introducing our third Cross-Medium Collaborations pair: Desmond Clarke and Erica Mulkern.
Desmond Clarke Desmond Clarke (b. 1989) is a composer, improviser and visual artist from the North of England. His work explores the relationships between physicality, systematisation and perception, and often focuses on the sensual (or sensory) experience of listening or performing. His work has been widely performed and exhibited, and he has been lucky enough to collaborate with a number of world class musicians, including the Arditti Quartet, Cikada and Ensemble Intercontemporain. Instagram: des_r_clarke Website: desmondclarke.com
Erica Mulkern Erica Mulkern MA is a professional dancer, teacher, choreographer and mentor based in West Yorkshire, UK. She is currently a dancer with Balbir Singh Dance Company and Northern Dance. She trained at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance where she received a First Class Hons Degree and the Carolyn Woolridge Prize for highest performance marks. She also gained a Distinction in an MA in Contemporary Dance. Prior to this she completed the Foundation Course at NSCD with a Distinction. During her time as a professional dancer she has worked with Black Box Dance Company in Denmark, Balbir Singh, Maxine Fell, Jana Bitterová, The Hexagon Collective, Dionysia Bouzioti, Tina Tarpgaard, Jason Mabana, Marie Brolin-Tani, Steph Giles, Joseph Reay-Reid, Jacob Stage, Melody Putu, Alexander Michael, Lila Naruse and Gerry Turvey. Other choreographers she has worked with include: Jos Baker, Laila Diallo, Vanessa Grasse, Lila Dance, Gemma Harrison and Gwen Rakotovao. Outside of dance Erica enjoys interacting with dogs, baking, reading and stroking other people’s dogs.”
Cover image by Josh Hawkins for NSCD
Posted on
Ελληνική Κληρονομιά
My heritage has always been a source of pride and confusion. Too loud to be ‘British’. Too polite to be ‘Greek’. My whole life I wanted to fit in these boxes of ‘Greek’ and ‘British’. Finally after many years I understood that the happiness I feel when I talk about my Greek heritage makes me Greek. And the satisfaction I get having a cup of tea after a long day makes me British! My Mother is my best friend, my rock, my universe. Without her I would be lost into the darkness. Ελληνική κληρονομιά is a tribute to her and the wonderful stories she told me about Greece as a child.
Performed, choreographed and edited by Erica Mulkern
Voiceover by Rebecca Papadopoulou
Videography by Imran Mirza
With thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Greek & Greek-Cypriot Gastronomy in London and Eyes Wide Open UK. With thanks to National Lottery Players. This video was created for the Greek and Greek Cypriot Gastronomy in London project, which explores the culinary heritage of the Greek and Greek Cypriot communities in London, through art and oral history interviews. A publication will be launched soon, stay tuned for more information.
Enchanted Evening Charity Ball, Prestwold Hall, 8th Dec 2022
Sharing this wonderful event, I am delighted to announce I have been asked to perform here! Get your tickets for a truly unforgettable experience and support such an amazing charity.
More information: The Venue Experts have organised the most magical winter event at the majestic Prestwold Hall, and we invite you all to join us.
This unforgettable experience of ethereal atmosphere, delicious dishes and dancing will support the Living Without Abuse Charity by donating all profits, so make sure you don’t miss it.
The dress code is black tie with a pinch of fairy dust, and tickets cost £95 and include an arrival cocktail, three-course meal, half a bottle of wine and evening entertainment.
We are also looking for suppliers who will help bring this day together. If you would be interested in getting involved, just drop us a dm.
I am so excited to announce my upcoming performance of Suzy Homemaker. This is the first time all 3 characters will be seen together, so you are in for a treat!
Tues 20th Sept 11.30am-12.30pm 60 minutes Spiegeltent, Barker’s Pool, Sheffield
This event contains adult themes including miscarriage, domestic violence, distress, burlesque performance – age restriction 16+.
A dance performance by Erica Mulkern, based on research by Dr Liat Levita and Ankita Mishra, Department of Psychology, portrays three women from different eras in history. Trapped in a gendered role they didn’t ask for, domestic bliss turns into a distorted nightmare. A post-show panel discussion will explore mental well-being, flight and fright responses, and the impact on brain and body of being trapped in a role imposed by society.
The term “Suzy Homemaker” is used as a derisive reference to any woman with habits linked to stereotypical domestic activities traditionally done by women. It was also a line of miniature functional toy household appliances produced by Topper Toys, launched in 1966 that taught girls how to be the “perfect housewife” just like their mother. In this performance we see women throughout history trapped in a role they did not ask for, they had no choice.
Erica Mulkern is in the midst of creating a 1hr long solo dance theatre piece that explores the development/growth of contemporary feminism as we know it today, focussing on the periods just before what are arguably the 3 most important moments in the history of contemporary feminism: the suffragette movement, the introduction of the Hays Code and the sexual revolution of the 60’s.
The piece has 3 characters, performed by Erica. The first: Susannah, a young lady entering “society” for the first time in the Edwardian era. She is promenaded in front of suitors, but as an educated woman she realises she’s just being sold like cattle. She plays her role, but dreams of more, being introduced to the Suffragette movement and developing hope before police quash the movement and she is married off. The second: Ms. S, is a Burlesque performer from the late 20’s/early 30’s, working in a sleazy club but taking pride in her work and the independence it provides. However, she begins to feel unsafe both because the clientele become more rowdy and because of political turmoil. She questions if she is performing for her independence or for the male gaze, ultimately deciding to hang up her heels. The third: Suzy, a 1950’s housewife that is quite strange, but to the outside world looks like the “perfect wife” – neat, prim, and makes an excellent Victoria sponge. There is a madness to her that you can’t help but both be disturbed by and pity.
Suzy Homemaker has been performed at Lawrence Batley Theatre, The Drama Studio Sheffield, Lancashire Fringe Festival (sold out show with positive reviews), Durham Fringe Festival, Leeds Art Gallery, Open Source Arts and the ARC Project.
Photos by Elly Wel Photography
Erica Mulkern, Creator and Performer Callum Holt, Producer Jen Nevin, Mentor/Dramaturg Stefania Pinato, Rehearsal/Movement Director Amelia Sierevogel, Costume Designer Harriet Bradbury, Historical Consultant
Erica would like to thank Enable Us Project, her team and family for their support and guidance for this performance. Suzy Homemaker has been supported in the past using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
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Love Should Not Hurt: A Way Out Fri 16th Sept, Spiegeltent, Barker’s Pool Sheffield, 4.30-5.30pm
I am honoured to announce an upcoming show that not only am I performing in but I have also directed and produced (my first time stepping into this role!)
Love Should Not Hurt: A Way Out.
Fri 16th Sept, Spiegeltent, Barker’s Pool Sheffield, 4.30-5.30pm
The performance is a piece of narrative based dance underpinned by research in domestic abuse amongst ethnically minoritised women in the COVID-19 pandemic from a social psychology lens. The performance will involve audience engagement and reflection on traditional notions of domestic abuse and the role of the intersection of gender and racial identities in this context. Sound and words are used to engage the audience in a deeper reflective experience and provide them with resources to aid understanding of domestic abuse and how they can support themselves/others around them going through similar experiences.
The Team:
Created by: Ankita Mishra, Department of Psychology with support from Dr Jilly Gibson-Miller and Dr Chantelle Wood
Produced and Directed by: Erica Mulkern
Choreographed and performed by: Erica Mulkern, Nyoosha Rahmani and Shawn Willis
Mental health safeguarding for artistic teams and audiences: Olivia Elford
Photos by Elly Wel Photography
As a side note I am extremely proud to be a director who employs a mental health safeguarding team member to be a part of the process in the dance/theatre space. Having this support and advice is so incredibly valuable in what is sadly still such a toxic and unsafe environment.
Ankita and Erica would like to thank would like to thank Humraaz, Blackburn; Roshni Sheffield Asian Women’s Resource Centre; Apna Haq, Rotherham; The Angelou Centre, Newcastle; The Phoebe Centre, Ipswich for helping us speak to the women without whose stories and experiences have informed the dance piece. A special thank you to Humraaz for being the primary collaborator for this research and their unwavering support at all times. We would also like to thank Enable Us Project, the dancers of Love Should Not Hurt: A Way Out and our families for their support and guidance for this performance.
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SUZY HOMEMAKER, TUES 17TH MAY AS A PART OF LANCASHIRE FRINGEFESTIVAL
Photo by Derwood Pamphilon
I am delighted to announce an upcoming performance of Suzy Homemaker in Lancashire Fringe Festival!
Where? The Continental, South Meadow Lane, Preston PR1 8JP When? Tues 17th May, 8pm Price? FREE!
SUZY HOMEMAKER, LAWRENCE BATLEY THEATRE, FRI 25TH MARCH 2022
Delighted to announce that Suzy Homemaker will be performed at Lawrence Batley Theatre on Fri 25th March 2022. I remember receiving the ‘What’s On’ programmes from LBT as a young child up until the end of my training at NSCD. My mum and I would mark the pages of all the shows we were interested in and book tickets to watch them. It was always one of my dreams to have a show at LBT or to perform there. Finally it has come true. What makes it even more special is that it’s a show that means so much to me. I have big aspirations for the future of Suzy Homemaker and for this to happen so early in the process (looking at a projected 4 year journey for the show) is honestly unbelievable. I am so grateful for all of the support I have received and a huge thanks to all of the team at LBT for supporting local artists and taking the time to listen to my ideas and provide support and studio space. As if this opportunity couldn’t get any better, when I opened the programme I saw one of my closest friends Shawn Addison who is a dancer with Phoenix Dance Theatre featured in the programme too. Shawn has been a huge believer and support throughout my career and training, I am so proud of him and what he has achieved through hard work and perseverance.
SUZY HOMEMAKER AS A PART OF TRIPLE BILL SNAPSHOT, SUN 28TH MARCH 2022
SHOW ALERT! Come and see Suzy Homemaker as a part of a triple bill ‘SnapShot’. When? MON 28TH MARCH at 8PM Where? Drama Studio, Sheffield Price? £8 Full / £6 Concessions / £6 UoS Students & Staff Ticket link: https://performancevenues.group.shef.ac.uk/event/snapshot/
More info: An evening of new work extracts from the Enable US resident companies and artists Innovative new dance, musical theatre and contemporary performance, showcasing our three resident companies’ brand new works. Featuring contemporary magician and circus side-show artist Tom Cassani’s Show of Hands, which will explore what memories our hands hold, what choices they make and why. We’ll also see extracts from leo&hyde’s acapella musical biopic Galileo- complete with beatboxers, dance breaks and spectacular harmonies. Finally, dancer Erica Mulkern will be presenting her new work Suzy Homemaker, which explores women throughout history, trapped in roles they did not ask for. A unique opportunity to take a glimpse at three explosive and thought-provoking new theatre works fresh out of the box. This evening will also include a free ‘In Conversation With’ discussion with the artists after the show, where you will get the chance to deepen your understanding of the artists’ fascinating processes.
I am delighted to announce that I have received funding from Arts Council England for ‘Suzy Homemaker‘.
This will be for a R&D period over the next few weeks to dive into the work even further.
None of this would be possible without the support from my amazing team:
Producer: Callum Holt
Movement/Rehearsal Director: Stefania Pinato
Choreographic Collaborator: Jenny Skinner
Dramaturg: Jen Nevin
Historical Consultant: Harriet Bradbury
Thank you to Kala Sangam, Enable Us Project and The Dance Studio Leeds for your support over the past few months, we are looking forward to using your studios!
Can’t wait for our outreach work with: University of Sheffield through Enable Us Project, Here Together with Displace Yourself Theatre, Origin Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Lauren Faye School of Dance.
Suzy Homemaker is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
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Suzy Homemaker- The Film
It is finally here, Suzy Homemaker- The Film
The link to the full film:
The term ‘Suzy Homemaker’ is used as a derisive reference to any woman with habits linked to stereotypical domestic activities traditionally done by women. Suzy Homemaker was a line of miniature functional toy household appliances produced by Topper Toys, and launched in 1966. It taught girls how to be the perfect housewife, just like their mother. In this film we see women throughout history trapped in a role they did not ask for, they had no choice. Domestic Bliss quickly turns into a distorted nightmare. Let’s meet the characters!
Susannah is a young socialite in the late Edwardian era. Suzy is a 1950’s housewife that is quite strange… Ms. S. is a Burlesque performer from the late 1920’s early 1930’s.
Performer and Choreographer: Erica Mulkern
Videographer and Post Production: Adam Redmond
Sound Design: Maja Palser
Costume Designer: Amelia Sierevogel
Edited by: Erica Mulkern
This film has taken approximately 200 hours to create from storyboarding, costume design, post production and rehearsals etc. It was a big part of Erica’s vision for Suzy Homemaker- The Film to be free for all to view but this does have minor consequences. The team are currently working unfunded and deserve to be paid for their efforts. If you enjoyed the film please donate anything you can via the GoFundMe link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/fundraising-for-suzy-homemaker-the-film
Erica Mulkern 