Would you mind giving us an insight into what your show/event/performance is?
The Elves and the Shoemaker is a very visual and child-friendly adaptation of the well-loved Grimm’s (and Ladybird books) classic tale of fairy-folk helping a down-on-his-luck shoemaker. Although it is a simple tale we have tried to highlight the magical aspects of the story by using puppets (both tabletop and shadow), a very textured set – with all kinds of trapdoors and kinetic props – an ethereal musical soundtrack, storytelling and many beautiful shoes.
Tell us about the creative team and the process involved?
We have always remained a small company. I (Andy Lawrence) am the designer, maker, writer and performer. My wife, Penny Earey, is the Manager, Director and “all-round-ideas-person”. Martin Thornton is a self-taught composer and has worked with Widdershins for 30 years. The starting point of the show was really the Ladybird version of the story, which I read as a child. Even today, the illustrations continue to fascinate me. When I formed Widdershins in 1993, the Ladybird classics formed the bedrock of most of our productions. Having trained at the Wimbledon School of Art (in Theatre Costume Design) I tend to approach my work in a very visual way. I identify what I consider the most striking elements – in this case, the shoes, the workshop and the elves – and work outwards from there. Quite early on, I met with Martin and discussed ideas, moods and characters. While he is busy composing, I am busy making. It’s only when I get the music that I put the script together, then there is a whole lot fo tweeking and this is where Penny comes in to add sparkle to the script.
How does it feel coming to (back to) the Fringe?
We love Edinburgh and love it even more during the Fringe. Coming back is something we really look forward to. It will be quite nostalgic coming back with this show. We first brought it to the Quaker Meeting House in 2007 where it went down so well that we had to move to a bigger venue for 2008. We brought it to the SSC in 2012 and again it virtually sold out. I would love it if some of the original audiences came again but I realise that they will have all grown up in that time!
With shows from all over the world at the Fringe, what sets yours apart?
As well as feeling that we are paying homage to a family favourite fairy tale, we try to add as many layers as possible in order to appeal to all ages. A cute mouse, cheeky-looking elves and a kind Grandad appeal to the very young. Kinetic mechanisms (I don’t want to give too much away here – sorry) appeal to older children. Miniature shoes, textured set, bespoke music and (bad)puns seem to appeal to the adults. And the inclusion of the grey-faced and suited factory owner definitely appeals to the more emo-inclined nihilists amongst the audience.
On that, is there anything in the production or production team’s backgrounds which influences the way the show is performed or told?
I would hope that my love of making things comes across. I know that is not necessarily a strong reason to see a piece of theatre but this story is all about making things: beautiful shoes (made by the elves) and beautiful miniature clothes (made for the elves by the shoemaker). As a costume maker and puppeteer I can’t actually think of a better story to perform
Is there anything specific you’re hoping the audience will take away?
I hope that the audience will feel uplifted by the magic and colour of the story and show – and that they will take away the desire to make something by hand – unleash their inner creativity. in some ways this is a story of beauty vs blandness
Your Ideal audience is in attendance, who’s watching? Or more importantly – who isn’t…?
We perform a lot in local schools. Sometimes the audience will be just reception children but often in small schools the ages range from 5 to 11. I love the challenge of keeping all the year groups engaged – and their teachers. So I guess the ideal audience would be made up of families with a wide span of ages. Also I love it when more elderly audience members sympathise with Grandad’s bad back.
It’s an intense month, so where you’re able, how do you plan to relax, and are there any other shows you intend to see or want to recommend?
We come to the Fringe as a family and our son, Zak, is a very calming influence. We love playing board games so these will feature daily. We don’t have deliveroo or Just Eat where we live so deciding what nationality food to order is also very exciting. However, our main relaxation – or rather distraction – comes from our three magical dogs – Lola, Bonnie and Twiglet. Taking them on interesting walks around Edinburgh or simply throwing the ball for them in the park is wonderful.
The Elves and the Shoemaker runs at Venue 30, Netherbow Theatre at Scottish Storytelling Centre
Runs: August 5th – August 16th at 11:00am
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