Brian has a dream: pitching himself to the Queen of Pop as the author of her glitzy new musical. But when the undetectable reality of HIV rises up, things change quicker than a Ray of Light.
For nearly forty years, Madonna’s remained on top by constantly reinventing herself. After years living on HIV meds, Brian wants to do the same. But he can’t live to tell a tale of jukebox triumph until he confronts the stigma and side effects of long-term survival.
LIVE TO TELL mashes up queer history and pop artifice into some highly personal Confessions on a Dancefloor. Sure, medicine can suppress a virus, but how do we keep on living? Just like a prayer, this show will take you there.
Originally developed at and supported by The Yard Theatre and artsdepot. Additional support from BAC and Camden People’s Theatre. Funded by Arts Council England.
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Post-Show Discussion
Friday 10th February
Free for ticket-holders
Reinvention: Madonna as Muse: Stay after the show to hear writer-performer Brian Mullin and the creative team, in conversation with Kenny Finkle & Mark Snyder (host of All I Want to Do Is Talk About Madonna), exploring Madonna’s ever-shifting signification and its impact on all of us.
All I Want To Do Is Talk About Madonna: Live
Sunday 12th Feb, 1pm
Ticketed
A live recording of the seminal podcast, exploring the Queen’s career album by album, song by song. Hosts Kenny Finkle & Mark Snyder cross the Pond to discuss the final four tracks from American Life. Join the live audience ahead of Live To Tell‘s Sunday matinee. Ticketed separately or get a combo deal here→
Post-Show Discussion
Weds 15th February
Free for ticket-holders
DON’T GO FOR SECOND BEST: A Queer Healthcare Forum – The NHS is over-stretched and rarely queer-friendly. On issues from HIV to mpox and trans healthcare, community activists are working to fill in the gaps. Our panelists will address the challenges we face and share resources to help support each other’s health.
Featuring: moderator Ben Weil, The Love Tank; Jo Alloway, WeExist trans* collective; Sarah Humphreys, ELOP holistic LGBT+ centre; Marc Thompson, The Love Tank & Prepster.
Theatre Club
Friday 17th February
Free to ticket-holders
Do you like watching theatre, but wish you had someone to talk with about what you see? Come to Theatre Club! It’s a very informal – no membership required – conversation space similar to book groups: people see a show, then meet to chat about it. Find out more here→