Wuthering Heights: Cathy’s Modern Manifesto
This is a bilateral projects:
Events in Poland – Warsaw, Teatr 21 – September 6
Events in the UK – Bradford, Mind the Gap – September 19
What happens when six women with learning disabilities and/or autism take inspiration from Emily Brontë’s ‘Wuthering Heights’ and the ethereal, otherworldly energy of Kate Bush’s iconic music video? The result is ‘Wuthering Heights: Cathy’s Modern Manifesto’. A ground-breaking collaboration between Mind the Gap (UK) and Teatr 21 (Poland) that redefines strength, desire, and inclusion on screen.
This manifesto raises a provocative question: how do we reconcile individual desires and ambitions in a world that too often excludes? The answer unfolds in the performers’ choreography—a collective yet deeply personal expression of joy, defiance, and longing. These women are not asking for permission to take up space; they are claiming it with every step and gesture. Their movements are filled with power and intent, reclaiming their stories with a rawness and intimacy that resonate long after the final frame.
Striking and unapologetic, this piece reminds us of the transformative power of truly being seen. Through hauntingly evocative imagery and fearless storytelling, the film challenges us to rethink what inclusion really means, inviting us to envision a world where every voice and body is valued.
The video art show will be accompanied by a short performance by actresses from Teatr 21.
Duration: 60 min
Video art language: Polish/English, subtitles in both languages
Performance language: Polish
Cathy/ Kate & Lyrics
Maja Kowalczyk
Aleksandra Skotarek
Julka Baranowska
Magda Świątkowska
Emily Kent
Charlotte Jones
Director of photography/ Editor: Wojciech Kaniewski
Music: Jez Colborne/ James Heselwood
Costumes: Wisła Nicieja
Creative Enabler: Karen Bartholomew
Dramaturgy: Justyna Lipko-Konieczna
Concept and direction: Justyna Wielgus
Production: Paulina Uryszek and Emily Blackwell
The project was realised in collaboration with Centrum Sztuki Włączającej/ Teatr 21 and Mind the Gap as part of the UK/Poland Season.
