Bad Lesbians turns domestic space into a combat arena, a villain cabaret that explores queer intimate partner violence through a blend of humour and discomfort.

As Haddaway once asked, ‘What is love?’ Bear witness to Pumpkin, Cowboy, Angel and their emotional / feral support dog as they - sometimes literally - wrestle it out. Expect synchro choreo, red flags aplenty, and conversations we’d rather avoid brought into the spotlight.

Bad Lesbians is currently in mid-stage R&D. After spending time in the rehearsal room being very, very bad lesbians indeed, we’re now figuring out how to put that on stage—without pulling any punches. The work is will preview in Autumn 2026.

Bad Lesbians is a Selina Thompson Limited production, led by Associate Director Toni-Dee Paul, made in collaboration with Samra Mayanja and Liv Ello, with Jo Tyabji. Wellbeing support from Rose Thorn.

Ways to See Bad Lesbians 

Bad Lesbians is currently in development. In May we presented a work-in-progress sharing of the work at Camden People’s Theatre, London. 

On the 29th and 30th August we presented a further work-in–progress sharing at Shedinburgh as part of Edinburgh Festival Fringe. 

In November (week beginning the 9th - exact dates to be announced), we will preview the work at Friction Arts in Birmingham. 

Access Information

Friction Arts, Birmingham

Friction has step-free access and there will be wheelchair spaces available.

There are accessible and gender neutral toilets on-site. 

There are limited car parking spaces on-site, when tickets go on sale we will tell you how you contact us to request one. There is also nearby on-street parking. 

Will will provide ear defenders, fidget toys and hand sanitisers for anyone who would appreciate them.

There will be a quiet space available for audience members during and after the performance. 

There will be a range of seating options, and we will invite you to let us know of any requests when booking your ticket. 

Taking influence from relaxed performances, audiences can tick and stim, make noise as they need and leave and return to the performance space as needed. Audiences should note however, there may be some loud noises and bright lights during the show.

The space will be ventilated pre and post performance.

Selina Thompson Ltd is an interdisciplinary performance and visual arts organisation based in Birmingham, UK.

Our practice is primarily intimate, political and participatory, with a strong standard of public engagement and investigation. We make joyous, highly visual work that seeks to connect to those often marginalised by the arts.

Our work has been presented in a range of contexts, all over the world. From pubs, clubs and toilets, to the National Theatre Studio and the British Council Showcase, amongst other divers venues.

In 2023, STL joined Arts Council England’s National Portfolio for the first time.