Emma Bailey is a modern day Madame Bovary, battling with a stifling middle-class lifestyle, thwarted dreams and untreatable depression. In desperation, she leaves her family behind to embark on a course of pioneering brain therapy, documenting her journey through raw, beautiful poetry. 

 

Based on Sarah James’ poetry collection, which was highly commended in the Forward Prizes 2015, the narrative springs to life through subtle physicality where every environment is evoked, from train carriage to art gallery, kitchen sink to sterile clinic.  

 

Introspection and the powerful rhythms of poetry reveal that beauty and tenderness can exist even in pain.

 

 

“An engrossing commentary on depression and its effects on all those around us - especially our nearest and dearest.” - Jan Bailey

 

 

“An electrifying performance …… totally immersive”

WORCESTER LITERARY FESTIVAL

 

 

'The Magnetic Diaries shows how wondrous and creative life can be despite living with depression, but also how exhausting and relentless.’  - Helen Babbs, Sick of The FringeEndFragment

 

 

“The poetry is divine. Rich, complex, visual, flowing and tumbling out with power and aliveness…”

“raw and intensely moving, …. the poetic language is boldly breath-taking.”

FRINGE REVIEW