EDINBURGH 2016: BWW Q&A - Puzzle

BWW speaks to Dance Theatre Dansema about their 2016 Edinburgh Fringe children's show Puzzle.

Tell us a bit about Puzzle

Puzzle is a contemporary dance performance for children from 0 to 3 years of age. Seeking to meet interests of children of such early age and maintain their attention throughout the whole show, we referred to colours, shapes, sounds and movements that are recognisable and attractive to babies. At the same time the choreography and props stimulate the children's imagination and allow them to experience the joy of dance.

What sets Puzzle apart from other children's shows at the Fringe?

In our show we blend fixed choreography, improvisation and moments of audience interaction. We didn't use any folklore material, plot or narration, but we learnt from children's movements, reactions, favourite sounds and colours, and then translated into dance performance where kids can relate to the experience onstage.

What's in it for the grown-ups?

For parents, grandparents and other adult audience there is an opportunity to discover their children in a dance environment that prompts different actions and reactions from them. This may reveal aspects of them that aren't apparent in ordinary daily life and home surroundings. It is great opportunity to find out new things about children, to participate in their cultural education and to draw families closer.

What has the company been up to since the last run at the Fringe?

In November 2015 we premiered Colourful Games, a new dance performance for children 0-3 years (which I choreographed and is also at this year's Fringe) - that was awarded 'Best Performance For Children' by the Lithuanian Ministry of Culture. We've also travelled widely. Last September we performed at Gogolfest, an international performing arts festival in Kiev in the Ukraine, and in February this year we were at the Mini Vault Festival and Jacksons Lane in London. In April we were in China at the Shanghai Children Arts Theater, and we've also been on tour in Sweden. In July we're touring Ireland.

What's next for Puzzle after the Fringe?

Lots more globetrotting. In September we're returning to Gogolfest in Kiev, and Mac festival in Barcelona. In October we tour China, then we're off to Albania, Bulgaria, USA and Norway.

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

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