3. The Big Tank Room

As we enter we hear the recorded voices of women describing how water was used in pre-mechanised housework – both domestic and in service.

Around the room sit many women. As they wash a huge sheet, they share a story. They put the sheet through a mangle. It becomes a huge serpent. The two creatures enter and take the serpent up the ladder and into the big tank.

The women sing. On the high window a projection of the tap - running now, not dripping. The women gather round a bath and wash a baby. There is joy now. The doors open on the car park and live music calls us out.