Inspired by William Wharton's novel, Birdy is a moving, sometimes bleak story of friendship and family, dreams and survival that explores the effects of war, notions of sanity, and one man’s obsession with birds.
In it we are introduced to the character of Birdy – confined in a World War II military psychiatric hospital, vulnerable, locked in silence and trapped in the persona of a bird. Led by his childhood friend and fellow casualty of war Al, we journey back through their early years as they relive their memories. As Al and Birdy leave for battle their lives are changed forever, but who or what represents true sanity? The world we live in or those who question it's reality and reason?
Throughout the piece the audience enjoy a highly visual experience that includes bungee harness, rope, Chinese Pole and trick bicycle. The performance is intensified by powerful live music and song. Circus skills and original staging techniques are used to convey a sense of otherworldliness and a wide spectrum of experiences and emotions. Flight and birds provide a metaphor for escape from the confines of human existence and the mundane.