Theatre / Scratchworks Theatre
Watch out Wardrobe Theatre: The Grimm Sisters are coming
All-female Exeter-based theatre company Scratchworks are getting on for 10 years old.
Since their formation, they have sold out multiple shows at arts festivals and cities nationwide, and are now set to embark on a UK tour of their show The Grimm Sisters, which will be coming to The Wardrobe Theatre on April 11-12.
The narrative centres on “the true brains behind the books”, Brunhilda and Mitzi Grimm, and “their weird world of poisonous parents, courageous quests and a magical frog called Jeremy (who is not to be trusted)”.
Scratchworks’ characteristic mash-up of styles balances storytelling, music, comedy and escapism. It’s a creative cocktail that co-artistic director Laura Doble (alongside Siân Keen and Alice Higginson-Clarke) sums up in one overarching goal: a captivated audience.
Photo: Matt Austin
“When adults and children alike are enthralled in the story, laughing at the comedy and connecting with the characters – that’s when it’s really magic,” she explains.
So what drew the company to retelling this particular story? “Our work often twists the narrative on traditionally male stories,” continues Doble.
“We were excited to explore the work of the Brothers Grimm as women are often placed in certain roles such as the wife, the princess or an old crone, and rarely have power and agency in these stories.”
The Grimm Sisters has a real double act sensibility, which is a joy for the actors to play. Beyond that, the interactive nature of the show ensures that every show is unique.
Photo: Matt Austin
“You will never see the same show twice,” Doble confirms. “The audience even get the opportunity to create their own story which the sisters must improvise on the spot.
“The interactive nature of the show keeps us on our toes as performers and celebrates the joy of sharing stories.”
For Scratchworks, with every show, there are fun challenges to overcome in making sure that the storytelling is clear enough for younger people, but layered and engaging for adults, too.
Ultimately, the alchemy of family theatre lies in tapping into its power to transcend age and connect with everyone in the audience.
Photo: Matt Austin
The Grimm Sisters (age recommendation 6+) is at The Wardrobe Theatre on April 11-12 at 2pm, with an additional 11am show on April 12. Tickets are available from www.thewardrobetheatre.com.
Main photo: Matt Austin
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