EDINBURGH 2022: A BEE STORY Q&A

BWW catches up with the team behind A Bee Story to chat about bringing the show to the 2022 Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Tell us a bit about A Bee Story

A Bee Story is a uniquely Australian physical theatre show for children and families incorporating a kaleidoscope of circus, acrobatics, dance and live music. It tells the story of Queen Bee and Worker Bee who must work together to rebuild their hive after being destroyed by a bushfire. But things never quite go to plan...

Join the bees on their buzzy adventures and be enchanted by their pollen-collecting skills, honey- making abilities, and super-bee strength. A Bee Story has themes of environmentalism, sustainability, and community spirit, and was directed by performer Robbie Curtis (Circa, Cirque du Soleil, Circus Oz, Australian Ballet), and co-created with musician and performer Lizzie McRae.

Why bring it to Edinburgh?

At Arc we are passionate about our work reaching a wide audience, and Edinburgh Fringe is an incredibly well-regarded festival showcasing some of the world's best work. We have made a very physical and fun show with important environmental themes and want to share it with the awesomeness of Edinburgh Fringe and the world.

Why do you think it is important to make a joyful show just now?

At Arc we are passionate about telling important stories, and A Bee Story is no exception. We have made a show about environmental issues, friendship and working together, although the main feeling we want to instil in the audience is joy. We aim that regardless of the messages of our show, the audience comes away feeling uplifted, hopeful, and inspired. It's important that we have joyful shows now, simply because if you turn on the TV things don't seem rosy, and so an hour of escapism of watching some world class acrobats perform like bees is a pretty great use of time. A Bee Story celebrates physicality and tackles some big ideas through circus.

What age is it suitable for?

We have had all ages at our show. Our target audience is children and families. We have had parents and grandparents love the show as much as their children and grandchildren.

What do you hope audiences will take away from it?

We fundamentally want the audience to come away from the show feeling inspired and hopeful. We have poured our hearts into this show, and from its success so far people have come away wanting to buy a ticket for the next day's show.

Sponsored content

Photo credit: Katie Bennett

To post a comment, you must register and login.