Theatre For Life
I Was Always Here
29 – 30 August 2026
Event details
“All the times you see yourself feel like the first time.”
Theatre For Life brings their next and biggest project yet, in collaboration with Beyond Reflections. I Was Always Here is an electrifying journey through trans+ histories. From the first trans surgeon, to the green rooms of the 90s club scene, through 1920s speakeasies and gothic literature, we celebrate the lives of trans+ people that history so often forgets.
Our company of LGBTQ+ theatremakers blends music, digital storytelling, and cabaret, in a trailblazing verbatim play developed from personal narratives in creative workshops, interviews, and conversations with trans and gender-expansive people across Hampshire and beyond.
In a time where trans+ lives are called constantly into question, these stories are more important than ever. This intergenerational story will make you laugh, make you think, and give you hope when hope seems hard to find.
This project is supported by funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, thanks to National Lottery players.
Venue
Studio 2 — Mayflower Studios
Price
Warnings
This production explores trans+ lived experiences, including discrimination, violence, mild sexual references, and occasional strong language. Viewer discretion is advised.
Some flashing lights will used throughout the production.
Running Time
Approx. 1 hour 15 mins with no interval
Further information
Discounts
Groups 10+ £3 off. Enquire now
Young Person under 16 £3 off
Cast
Kim Tatum MZZ Kimberley (She/her)
EM Williams (They/them)
Arlo Wilson (They/he)
Frewyn Thursfield (They/them)
Creative
Writer: Kit Miles (They/them)
Director: Michelle Smith (She/her)
Producer: Daniel Harris (He/him)
Set & media designer: James Henderson (He/him)
Working in partnership with Abigail Parkes (She/they) from Beyond Reflections and Southampton Pride.
Extras
Post show discussion
Following the Sun 2.30pm performance
A 30 minute discussion with cast and creatives, exploring:
- The changing use and understanding of language across generations
- Shifting societal attitudes and their impact on identity and belonging
- Ongoing medical inequalities and barriers to accessing care
- The effects of historical and present-day social indifference
By engaging audiences in these themes, the production aims not only to raise awareness but to deepen understanding, empathy and encourage meaningful dialogue. We hope this will support in identifying ways to challenge inequalities, inform inclusive practice, and contribute to positive, lasting change within our communities.
We are delighted to share that Dr Lexi Webster (University of Southampton) will be hosting the discussion.