This blog post follows the creative journey of the Fallen Angels Liverpool Movement group as they develop a performance piece inspired by their lived experiences. Through movement, art, and shared reflection, angels explore the complexities of recovery and the powerful metaphors of resistance and surrender. 

30.01.2025: Inspired by the River 

The group began by drawing inspiration from artwork created by one of the participants, which in turn was based on the words of Alan Watts: 

“We are all floating in a tremendous river and the river carries you along. Some of the people in the river are swimming against the current, but they are still being carried along. Others have learned that the art of the thing is to swim with it. You have to flow with the river. There is no other way. You can swim against it and pretend not to be flowing with it. But you still flow with the river.” – Alan Watts (1915 – 1973) 

Image: Point of View Photography 

In pairs, the group explored these powerful words through movement. How does it feel to move with the river? How does it feel to fight against it? The resulting explorations formed the initial seeds of their performance. 

13.02.25: Moving Beyond the Default 

Building on the poem, the group then turned to the participant’s artwork for further inspiration. Working in smaller groups, they challenged themselves to move in ways that felt unfamiliar, pushing beyond their usual movement patterns. 

A crucial element of this process has been the peer-led feedback sessions. These discussions have not only helped refine the movement but have also fostered a remarkable growth in confidence among the participants. Witnessing individuals open up, share their perspectives, and offer constructive criticism has been deeply rewarding. 

27.02.25: Press, Hold, Release 

As the work progressed, the group began to weave together the individual movements into coherent sequences. The key words “press,” “hold,” and “release” became central, embodying the struggle against the current and the eventual surrender to its flow. The group also took advantage of their new space at the Everyman Theatre, experimenting with light and shadow to enhance the emotional impact of their performance. 

May 2025: A Coherent Whole 

Despite juggling multiple projects, the Liverpool group has dedicated significant time and energy to their Lived Experience work. They have amassed a wealth of material, pushing their physical boundaries and exploring new styles of movement. The collaborative nature of the project, with participants working in various combinations, has enriched the creative output. 

The group is now focused on selecting the most impactful elements and weaving them together into a cohesive performance. This performance will not only showcase the individual journeys of the participants but also offer a powerful and moving exploration of what it means to navigate the currents of life and recovery. The aim is to create a piece that resonates with audiences, offering both insight and inspiration.