EDINBURGH 2016: BWW Q&A - It Folds

We speak to the creators of 2016 Edinburgh Fringe show It Folds.

What can you tell us about It Folds?

It Folds is a poignant, humorous portrait of death, grief and the extremes of the human condition. In the aftermath of a tragic disappearance, where no clear answers can be found, a succession of surreal characters struggle to piece together events and find increasingly disturbed ways of dealing with their loss.

The show is performed by a multi-generational cast, ranging from ages 16 to 60. Three of the main cast members are local Edinburgh performers, alongside the larger choir, which is Edinburgh-based. It Folds was created by four people from two companies (Junk Ensemble and Brokentalkers), alongside Denis Clohessy (composer) and Sarah Jane Shiels (lighting and visual designer). The piece became an integrated collaboration of dance, theatre, and live music/song.

What was the inspiration for the show?

We were influenced by themes such as loss, grief and comedic everyday occurrences, all framed within the context of a 'birthday'. We took inspiration from the films of Swedish filmmaker Roy Andersson, in particular his most recent trilogy of films about what it is to be human: Songs from the Second Floor; You, the Living; and A Pigeon Sat on a Branch Reflecting on Existence. The films show ordinary characters with ordinary lives faced with constant surreal circumstances.

We began with the idea of creating characters housed within their own stories yet inextricably linked by a defining element, such as a death, or a birthday. All of the stories mention a birthday and the final scene is an eccentric, haunting birthday party to end all parties. The collaboration between Brokentalkers and Junk Ensemble combine the unique, distinctive mark of each company: innovative, exciting movement from Junk Ensemble and naturalistic and poetic writing from Brokentalkers.

How has audience response been so far?

It Folds premiered at The Abbey Theatre as part of Dublin Fringe Festival last September and recently performed for three nights at Mayfest in Bristol. We've had appreciative audiences and standing ovations along the way, and picked up two awards for Best Performer and Best Lighting Design. Audience members find the show humorous, disturbing, wacky and beautiful. It Folds deals with human themes that people can relate to and identify with.

What sets It Folds apart from other shows at the festival?

A large choir of ghosts appear at the end of the show and sing a choral number. A 16-year-old boy steals the show and there is a strong sense that the action onstage remains fresh and original. The lighting and set design creates a beautiful and simple setting for the show.

Who would you recommend comes to see It Folds?

There is an interesting mix of storytelling and movement in the show that appeals to a wide range of audiences. Both regular and non-theatregoers will enjoy It Folds, alongside dance, theatre, visual art and music lovers. The show is suitable for families with an age limit at 12+ and its farcical, unique style makes it the perfect Edinburgh festival show.

Timings and ticket information for It Folds are available on the edfringe website.

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