EDINBURGH 2017: BWW Q&A- Oskar's Amazing Adventure

Tell us a bit about Oskar's Amazing Adventure.

Well, the hero of the tale is a fun-loving puppy who lives with his family in a little house on top of a mountain. They have been snowbound for weeks and Oskar - desperate for a game - runs all the way down the mountain in search of a friendly animal to play with. But unfortunately for the puppy, the animals he meets are more interested in eating him than playing with him, and he only manages to avoid the attentions of a hungry fox by falling down a deep hole in the ground. Oskar lands on top of a young hibernating marmot, who luckily forgives Oskar for waking her up and using her amazing digging and whistling skills helps the little dog escape the fox and reunite him with his family. Oskar wants to play more, but has to wait until spring for Marmot to finish her long winter's sleep.

Who is it suitable for?

The play is perfect for 2 to 8 year olds and their families.

What sets it apart from other children's shows at the festival?

A difficult question as I haven't had time yet to find out what else is on, but I imagine what will set Oskar's Amazing Adventure apart from many children's shows is that Oskar is theatre and not children's entertainment. Don't get me wrong, there's absolutely nothing wrong with entertainment. It's just that theatre - if it is any good - offers a much deeper and more varied experience.

What's in it for the adults?

Well, judging from the previews, first of all, the pleasure of being able to relax because their children are fully involved and enjoying the performance. And also, then noticing that the play is for them too and they can share the experience.

And a book has been created alongside?

Yes - we are premiering Oskar the play at the Gilded Balloon and just round the corner at Blackwell's Bookshop, we are launching Oskar the picture book.

Generally in the children's publishing world, if a book is successful after a while, someone adapts it into a play. We decided to cut out the wait and produce the play and book at the same time. It was pretty hairy at times with the text, illustrations and storyline of the book changing as the play developed in rehearsal, but it was an amazing and exciting creative process and we think it has helped make both the book and the play special.

Timings and ticket information for Oskar's Amazing Adventure are available on the edfringe website.

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