You Don't Have to Cover Your Eyes by Ema Boswood

Ema Boswood loves horror films. She absolutely cannot watch them.

You Don’t Have To Cover Your Eyes is a one-to-one experience that begins with a simple invitation: meet Ema in a café. Have a cake and cuppa. Share something that scares you. Then listen as she recounts the plot of a horror film that she’s never seen, but read on Wikipedia. Misremembered details, questionable interpretations, camp spooky elements, and absolutely zero jump scares. You don’t have to cover your eyes.*

This is a performance made especially for people who love horror but can’t bear to be frightened. For those who like the idea of horror told as gossip, and enjoy the tingly feeling that things might not be entirely as they seem – even in a cosy café in broad daylight.

*You might have to a bit.

Each performance is 20 mins long, includes a free tea/coffee, and takes place at The Barn Cafe, Meanwood Valley Urban Farm. You can book your slot via the link above.

About the artist.

Ema Boswood is a Leeds-based independent artist, curator and prominent arts producer. This work forms the second in her series playfully exploring paranormal phenomena, following her 2019 solo show Ghost Sexxx. 

Access.

See Meanwood Valley Farm website for access info. The performance will reference potentially distressing topics – you will have the opportunity to flag any specific content you’d like to avoid.

Who is this for?

People who love the thrill of horror, but can’t watch horror films. And quirky cafe experiences.

“A horror story told as gossip over cake and coffee, and a playful invitation to share with a stranger our weird and unique relationships to fear.” – Ema Boswood

Show credits:

Ema Boswood – Lead Artist

Rosana Cade – Outside Eye

Jessica Sweet – Outside Eye

Dan Commons – Photographer

With thanks to David Sheppeard for his contribution to the development of the original idea for this work.