EDINBURGH 2016: BWW Q&A - Bedtime Stories

BWW speaks to Upswing ahead of their 2016 Edinburgh Fringe children's circus show Bedtime Stories.

Tell us a bit about Bedtime Stories

Bedtime Stories is immersive circus theatre for families to enjoy together. The show tells the story of a little girl who has a big imagination and her busy mum who's trying to find a work/life balance. The story is told with acrobatics, video projections, music, songs and dance, and the audience is invited to snuggle up in the comfort of beds set up in the round. It's not a traditional circus or theatre show and appeals to both adults and children, creating fun experience for all the family.

How has the show gone down with audiences so far?

The feedback has been incredible - we've had some parents feeling really emotional and telling us how much they connected with the themes in the show, but they have fun too! We did a little survey and the three words used the most to describe the show are: magical, innovative and dreamy.

The kids get really excited, especially with the acrobatics and clowning, but also get into the story and the characters. We're often asked to do photos on set at the end with the cast and toys.

What inspired you to create Bedtime Stories?

The concept for the show came from Vicki's (the Artistic Director) own childhood memories. When we started discussing the show she explained: "When I was a child my mum often had to work nights. Whilst at work she would record tapes of stories for us to listen to the next night so we could still have our bedtime stories. It was our little tradition and those times tucked up with my brother and sister and listening to my mum's voice guide us into sleep were some of my most cherished childhood memories. The tapes were her way of staying present with us even though the necessities of life meant she had to be away from us. I wanted to create a show that would capture the essence of that memorable experience."

What sets Bedtime Stories apart from other family shows at the Fringe?

Bedtime Stories offers a special moment for families to reconnect and spend quality time together. It's also a mix of art forms so there's something for everyone. It's different because it defies the norm in kids' circus and theatre by blending narratives for adults and children simultaneously, so everyone in the family can relate and have a great time.

Are there any other performances you are hoping to catch in Edinburgh?

We've been so busy getting ready we've not had a chance to plan that yet, but there are loads of amazing circus shows at Udderbelly's Circus Hub (where we're performing).

Timings and ticket information for Bedtime Stories are available on the edfringe website.

Photo credit: Mark Robson

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