getinthebackofthevan (UK):Weight me down
The gym; some go to relax, some go to sweat. For those who prefer to sweat, it’s a place of strictly timed seconds, repeated repetitions and committed physical activity. For WEIGH ME DOWN, here are the rules of engagement: a performer runs on a treadmill for the first 90 minutes of every 2 hours, for a total of 12 hours. As they run, they read aloud continuously from a list of thousands of apologies. During each 30-minute break from running, the performer remains by the treadmill and may not speak at all.
Here’s how you can help: go and support the runner during the marathon session by sending your apology – to whoever or whatever you owe an apology – to: apologies@getinthebackofthevan.com. All apologies sent to the project will appear anonymously in the performance.
“I run.I speak. I cannot breathe.
Again and again and again.
I will not walk properly for days.
I have said.
I am sorry.”
getinthebackofthevan (UK)
GETINTHEBACKOFTHEVAN are based in London and have been creating theatrical events, durational performances and performance lectures since 2009.