About

Corset Story is original new cabaret opera created by performance duo SELF & SOSSI (Marina Sossi and Susie Self).

With fun and lightness, they explore the power and symbolism of the corset through a kaleidoscope of provocative love songs, movement, historical vignette and personal reflection. This fast paced funny show is bound together by the central theme of how the corset-like restraint of femininity-myths have shaped women's lives, and their roles in the creative industries. Illuminating songs dedicated to composers Clara Schuman (wife of Robert) Fanny Mendelsohn (sister of Felix) and Alma Mahler (wife of the maestro) are playfully provocative and entertaining.

Throughout history, corsets have been a significant piece of clothing, representing a void between patriarchy and feminism. SELF&SOSSI investigate the advantages of the restriction imposed by the Corset as a metaphor for how its constraints can paradoxically liberate creative expression.

SELF, a composer/singer and SOSSI, a dynamic performance artist, have created a show full of gorgeous music, bold physical theatre and funny, fascinating anecdotes.

Susie Self & Marina Sossi have been working together for over 15 years staging operas and installations whilst developing their performance art duo Self & Sossi; bringing to their partnership a unique combination of physical theatre, clown and accessible new music. They have collaborated on Self's interdisciplinary opera: 'Quilt Song' at The Old Birmingham Rep, installation, 'Vivid Stream' at Birmingham Conservatoire and toured an all female version of Britton's opera 'Turn of the Screw'.