This show, a one-man production courtesy of Dick Johns, is a fascinating insight into the last three years, reflecting on the experiences people have had during the pandemic. It focuses on three questions: how was it for you? How is it now? And what, if anything, does it mean?
The Great Pandemic Sofa Show features commentary from members of the public interviewed on the Cardiff streets, sharing their candid experiences of life during COVID. Varying in age and demographic, from students to office workers and visitors to Cardiff out for the day, they shared their differing struggles and experiences of the last three years. For some, this proved the best thing that could have happened; others recalled staring at their four walls, lacking motivation. Key points common amongst many were isolation and loneliness, yet for others, a sense of family was re-established.
The necessity of addressing one’s work-life balance was challenged in many quarters: people who had spent too much time at work, often with long commutes, might have hardly seen their families before and – suddenly – had more time than ever. Some were determined to keep it that way, setting new boundaries with their place of employment. Baking, that near-stereotypical pandemic pastime, and other hobbies were also embraced, interviewees grabbing their chance to be creative, experimental and pick up hitherto unlikely skills.
Carers and nurses, then as now, had to be everything to everyone when loved ones could not see their families. The mental distress of being prevented from saying goodbye in the normal way, likewise attending funerals, was conveyed eloquently. Mental health nurses also shared their experiences, citing a surge in the numbers of people seeking mental health support over the time and calling for more support in the sector – and for the impact of the pandemic on people’s lives to be better acknowledged.
There were also interesting observations from a variety of Welsh female guest speakers, all noted writers, performers, and actors. Writer/performer Llinos Mai gave her take on early COVID times, recalling a renewed appreciation of – variously – green space, spending time with her dog and the act of writing itself. The question of ambition, and the pros and cons it brings, was raised; for all the dreadful things inflicted on us by this virus, without the usual commitments hounding one’s diary, it meant more time to reflect for many in Wales, a chance to appreciate the moments life gives us.
The Great Pandemic Sofa Show, Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Thurs 19 Jan
words EMILY EDWARDS
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