A dying man’s wish; for Ugly Bucket to create a show about death. Will it be subtle? Will it be sophisticated? Probably not, but it’s his funeral. Literally.
The multi award winning physical comedy company Ugly Bucket process the death of a friend in the only way they know how; through a high energy maelstrom of clowning, movement, verbatim, and thumping techno tracks.
'Good Grief moved me from tears of laughter to tears of sorrow that healed me' - Audience Member. Featured by BBC Stories, Good Grief is a paranormal physical performance of loss and the memories left behind.
In partnership with The Unity Theatre
Supported by Arts Council England and Slunglow
Directed by Rachael Smart and Grace Gallagher
Performed by Adam Nicholls, Angelina Cliff, Canice Ward,
Grace Gallagher and Jessica Huckerby
Music and sound by Duncan Gallagher
Film by Jack Ehlen
Set and costume design by Sascha Gilmour and Kirsty Barlow
Stage Management by Kaila Sharples
Lighting design by Liz Barker
Guest choreography by Grace Goulding and Alice Lapworth
With thanks to Care Merseyside, Dramatic Recovery and every individual who shared their story
Good Grief is dedicated to Tim Miles
Good Grief - The Graphic Novel
This edition of Good Grief is rIchly illustrated by artist Kidda Kinsey, in an explosion of whimsical art that brings the show sharply from the stage onto the page. It was published to coincide with the production at Underbelly Cowgate, Edinburgh, in August 2022.
ACCESS in the GOOD GRIEF 2023 TOUR
Supported by Arts Council Englad, we collaborated with artist Rhiannon May to incorporated BSL inspired movement within Good Grief, not only making this work more accessible but elevating the production as a whole.
We also worked with Rhiannon as a captioner and in partnership with Digital 4, ensured that every performance on the Good Grief 2023 was captioned.
Alongisde this, we priovided familiarisation tours and access tools at every show to create a more accessible and welcoming space for our neurodivegent audiences.
A breathtaking, important piece of work. Go. It’ll make you feel alive. - Festmag
Good Grief is exceptional. It is agony and mirth all wrapped up in an art form that is perfect for communicating the universal familiarity of grief, where words often fail us. - Broadway World
Good Grief is one of the most remarkable experiences I have ever been fortunate enough to be part of, not just at VAULT Festival, but ever. - All that dazzles
Remembering Rida Rennoldson
In 2019, Rida became a crucial contributor to the development of Good Grief by courageously sharing the story of her relationship with grief after losing her parents. Her profound insight and wisdom naturally became a beacon within this production. Rida’s authenticity, and words of hope in the face of darkness have gone on to touch and inspire audiences in their grief across the UK.
Rida’s passing has been a loss beyond words. Her impact on those around her, and influence on the conversation around grief and mental health is never to be underestimated.
In her memory a fundraiser was set up by Rida’s family, supported by Ugly Bucket, Dramatic Recovery and Care Merseyside. These donations will allow The Good Grief graphic novel to be donated to bereavment charities in Rida’s name, so that her words and legacy will continue to support others in their grief.
