Motherhood Unscripted

Motherhood Unscripted was presented as a promenade event at Stretford Public Hall, showcasing the extraordinary resilience of mothers during times of crisis, comparing their experiences in World War II and the COVID-19 pandemic.

This unique play was devised by the mothers themselves, meaning it was collaboratively created by them through a process of exploration, discussion, and improvisation, rather than being written by a single playwright. Thank you to all the performers, cast members, and everyone who contributed their remarkable stories to bring this powerful performance to life.

Motherhood Unscripted Film

Motherhood Unscripted Trailer

From Concept to Performance

Experience the journey of the performance as it evolves from initial rehearsals to the final show.

Performance Images

Performance 8 July 2023

Meet the cast

Motherhood Unscripted programme

Original songs and poems

The performance featured original songs that were both co-written and performed by the cast.

World in a Mess

World in a Mess reflects on the challenges and uncertainties that life throws at us. It explores the difficulties of explaining these struggles to a child, especially when the world seems chaotic and tough. Despite the hardships, the song encourages listeners to remember their strength and resilience. It highlights the courage and love of being a mother, affirming that overcoming struggles has made one stronger and more loving.

Lyrics

Things life throws at you

you never know what’s coming next

Hard for me, hard for you

Struggle in context

How do you explain to a child

When the world comes back in such a mess

—

Falling over then get up

Sometimes you feel

You’ve run out of luck

How do you explain to a child

When the world can sometimes feel so tough

When the world can sometimes feel so tough

—

Remember what you’ve overcome

it’s made you strong

Remember remember what you’ve become

You’re a loving mum

—

Sometimes you feel almost worn away

Over the minutes throughout the day

How do you explain to a child

When the world can sometimes look so grey

—
Remember what you’ve overcome

it’s made you strong

Remember remember what you’ve become

You’re a loving mum

—

Things life throws at you

you never know what’s coming next

Hard for me, hard for you

Struggle in context

How do you explain to a child

When the world comes back in such a mess

—

Remember what you’ve overcome

it’s made you strong

Remember remember what you’ve become

You’re a loving mum

Repeat x2

Fiercely Amazing

This song celebrates the strength and unity of mothers who are both resilient and supportive. It highlights their courage, cheerfulness, and caring nature, emphasising their energetic brilliance. The chorus proudly affirms their bravery, warmth, and enduring strength.

Lyrics

We’re all fiercely amazing

We rock resilience

Strong, cheerful and caring

With our energetic brilliance

Energetic brilliance

—

We all support each other

Sisters through & through

We dance we sing together

We’re fab & fair & loyal & true

Fab & fair & loyal & true

—

CHORUS

We are mothers and much more

Proud to follow what’s been before

We’re brave and strong

Tender and warm

That’s where our strength comes from x3

—

We’re all fiercely amazing

We rock resilience

Strong, cheerful and caring

With our energetic brilliance

Energetic brilliance

—

We all raise our voices

United in our song

We always face the challenge

But still we carry on and on

On and on and on and on

—

CHORUS

—

We’re all fiercely amazing

We rock resilience

Strong, cheerful and caring

With our energetic brilliance

Energetic brilliance

We’re all fiercely amaZING

Support Song

This song captures a mother’s daily routine and the comforting support she finds throughout her day. The chorus emphasises feeling understood and unjudged, finding a safe space among fellow mothers. Reflecting on past support, the song also touches on the emotional highs and lows of parenting. It ends with a peaceful moment of rest and shared dreams.

Lyrics

I wake up in the morning and stick the kettle on

And before you know it the night is gone

First five minutes of the morning are the best part of the day

Got a kiss, get a cuddle, then it’s time to play

—

Get myself together, glad I packed the night before

Grab a coffee, grab the buggy, as I get out of the door

It’s a taxi or a bus, sometimes I walk

To this special place, where I get support

—

CHORUS

I’m understood

I’m not judged

Mums like me

A safe place to be

I can get advice

I’m doing it right

With mums, like me

—

In times gone by my neighbours they would lend a friendly ear

She was there, she understood, she was always near

It doesn’t even matter if I’m happy, sad or fine

For advice and questions answered, they always make the time

—

CHORUS

You may find me crying, but it’s worth it in the end

Can I lean here on your shoulder, will you be my mum friend

You have to take it slowly, just one day at a time

I need a little time to unwind

—

CHORUS

—

Now we’re getting sleepy, let’s lay down our heads

Finally it’s time for rest, it’s time to go to bed

Close your eyes and dream about the things you want to be

Sharing your life with me.

—

Sharing your life with me.

Resilience

This poem encourages self-trust and self-love, urging perseverance through tough times. It emphasises finding inner strength, being fearless and bold, and maintaining resilience at any age.

Poem

Trust yourself, love yourself

Stand up for you

Never give up

Even when times are tough

You find the strength to cope

Believe you can overcome

Be fearless, be bold

Whether you’re young or old

Never stop towards

RESILIENCE