Public feeling explores the health impacts of austerity on the individual and collective body, the politics of ‘resilience’, and considers the gym or leisure centre as a space where the bodies of citizens are trained, transformed and cared for. It’s a timely interrogation of the modern-day mecca and replacement of the shopping centre as a cherished hang-out for the insta-gen. This series of participatory performances is staged in the format of fitness classes. Each class will be delivered by a performer who is a working fitness instructor, Peter May (Cycle Studio); Gareth Francis (Kickstart Fitness); and Eleanor Young (Aquafit instructor), they will instruct the participants throughout the class which are accompanied by a musical score and scripted soundtrack. Newly commissioned writing by Lynn Ruane and Colm Keegan is incorporated into the sound design throughout the performances. “The gym is often thought of as a space outside of politics, but in fact I think it can be a concentration of it: which bodies are worked and cared for, and by whom?” says artist Sarah Browne who has created this piece.
Tallaght Leisure Centre, November 10, 2pm (Circuit), 4.30pm (Aquafit); Clondalkin Leisure Centre, November 17 & 24, 2pm (Circuit), 4.30pm (Aquafit)
Photo: Public Feeling Press
