In 2019, I wrote a show called The Empathy Experiment. I performed it at the Greater Manchester Fringe and the Edinburgh Fringe Festivals. It won an award, got a bunch of great reviews, but most importantly it really seemed to resonate for audiences.
In the show, I propose that an international day of no mobile phones could help save empathy across the world. I set it up as an experiment, I explore ideas and challenges, I share my research about tech addiction and empathy, and I even literally swap shoes with a member of the audience. I talk about what empathy means -- to understand and share the feelings of others.
In 2020, I had a bunch of UK tour dates lined up, plus made plans to take the show abroad. Covid-19 meant that venues had to close and tour dates were cancelled or postponed. I was lucky to have a side project to work on: editing my debut collection of poetry with Flapjack Press. It’s called After the Storm and includes the script for The Empathy Experiment.
But it has been a tough time.
In so many ways.
And so, as 2021 begins and pandemic uncertainty continues, I want to share some soul-nourishment.
For every Monday in February, I’ll be posting a new blog called Notes from an empath. Each blog holds some hilarity and heart drawn from my own experiences, and I hope the words will offer a bit of comfort and connection. xo