This Is Not for You was an epic outdoor performance paying moving tribute to Britain’s wounded war veterans, men and women whose contributions to history often go unnoticed. The piece was directed by Jenny Sealey, written by Mike Kenny and performed by Blesma, The Limbless Veterans, professional performers and local community choirs.
This Is Not for You, part of 14-18 NOW, the UK’s arts programme for the First World War centenary, is a story of veterans’ fight for respect and remembrance, told with heft and beauty and wry humour, both on the ground and off it, with audio description and sign language as integral parts of the production. Graeae, with the National Centre for Circus Arts, trained 25 disabled veterans in performance especially for the piece.
Alongside its performances in Greenwich and Stockton, the work inspired an extensive education and digital engagement programme, encouraging veterans and members of the public to share their experiences and stories on this important subject.
‘You go past the Cenotaph and the crowd clap you. It’s quite moving. We were waving to the crowd, and this little boy said: “This is not for you survivors. This is for the dead.” It made me feel guilty.’
A veteran describing his experiences on Remembrance Sunday
Co-commissioned by 14-18 NOW and Blesma, The Limbless Veterans, supported by Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation (UK Branch), The Drive Project and National Centre for Circus Arts.
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