Play with an 'honest take on menopause' opens tonight in Plymouth
The show is based on real life conversations
Last updated 28th Feb 2025
Mid Life - described as a 'frank, relatable play with razor-sharp humour about menopause' - opens tonight at Plymouth's Theatre Royal.
Critics say the life-affirming show, created by Diverse City, is a 'daringly honest, passionately rebellious and comedic exposé inspired by what happens in menopausal midlife'.
Artistic Director Claire Hodgson, from Dorset, says Mid Life 'is a deeply personal, heartfelt response to the anxiety and overwhelmingness' she experienced as her 'mind and body began to change and was inspired by tea break conversations on ageing and menopause'.
She added: "The show mirrors our real lives. As a result of our conversations, I thought ‘what if we were centre stage and could tell our stories?’
"It's a time of putting ourselves first for a change. We see that menopause can affect everyone in some way - so this show is for everyone.
"A man in his seventies came to see it, explaining he is ‘married and the proud father of three daughters, so why wouldn't I come!’
Here's our full interview with Artistic Director Claire Hodgson:
"My mum, who is 78, has also appeared in the show as herself. I loved that, and so did the audience. They knew they were seeing our real lives alongside their stories on the stage. Mid Life is what I wanted my 44-year-old self to see - showing who I might become. Nowadays, I forget stuff and people's names, but I am also at the height of my creativity and joy.”
The show will also be performed in Cornwall's Barn Theatre, Sterts Arts and Environmental Centre on Saturday 29th March