Introduction to A Haunted Existence

Lunchtime Talks are a series of informal presentations at Watershed's Pervasive Media Studio. They normally take place at 13:00 on a Friday, are free and are open to everybody who is interested in what they do. Come along, bring a sandwich, and get to know more about the Studio community, current and up-coming projects, or residents' work.

In the early 1950s a 17-year-old called, Geoffrey Patrick Williamson was on a train going from Exeter to Bristol, when he approached a plain clothed railway officer. Their brief encounter was deemed inappropriate and Williamson was arrested. On questioning, Williamson revealed the names of 17 men he had had sex with, beginning a domino effect of arrests, prison, aversion therapy and suicide.

The story of Geoffrey and those of the men involved, is at the heart of studio resident Tom Marshman's new piece of work, A Haunted Existence. He will explore, through performance what life was like for them before that fateful day on the train and what impact the arrests had on their lives afterwards. Tom is particularly interested in incorporating creative technology into this performance and is keen to start a conversation with our Lunchtime Talk audience about the possibilities and challenges that poses.

The Pervasive Media Studio is located within the Watershed building. Let us know if you'd like a tour and we'll be happy to show you around. Send an email to studio@watershed.co.uk