The Wonderful World of Widdershins

Happy New Year!

2012-01-10T03:27:00.000-08:00

Back to the daily slog of coming in to Cambridge although once I'm here it is just a delight! My new office (aka Starbucks and the Central Library) provide me with a very nice working environment. And the rich array of eccentric people really add something.

Unfortunately, the new year has bought a nasty surprise with it. Some of our loyal theatres that have booked our shows for over 10 years no longer want our work unless it is new! I had hoped that Andy would get a break from building shows but that is obviously not going to happen. I sometimes worry that I'm doing something wrong in my management. We never get a run of more than 4 shows and yet theatres won't have an older show back even after a gap of three years. When it takes Andy over 3 months to build a show then it doesn't make sense if a theatre will only put it on once. I wonder if it is time for Widdershins to ditch the big sets and lavish puppets and go minimalist. I want children to experience beautiful theatre not only in perfomance but in production. We are so proud of our shows and everyone seems to love looking at everything after the show but if theatre programmers only want new then this will have to stop.

If anyone out there lives near Norden Farm, Maidenhead or The Junction, Cambridge then perhaps you wouldn't mind sending their programmers a friendly email telling them that you would like to see 'Rapunzel & The Tower of Doom' at their theatre?

The Elves & The Shoemaker - sell out tour!

2011-12-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

The Elves & The Shoemaker is selling out everywhere it goes - it's amazing! But it sends us a strong message that we need to stick to the popular traditional tales if we want to appeal to family audiences. We loved 'The King's Got Donkey's Ears!' but it's uknown title meant that audiences tended to be small and this has a knock on effect of putting the theatres off from booking us again. So it looks like the next show that we build will have to be another well known tale: Hansel & Gretel? Sleeping Beauty? Little Red Riding Hood?

We're very much enjoying performing this one at the moment and haven't even started to plan the next.... unlike Andy!

Home again... and admin again!

2011-09-06T13:04:00.000-07:00

So we're back home and there's plenty of admin needs doing. I finally summoned up the energy to tackle 4 contracts that have been looking at me for a week. They are probably the dullest part of my job - no offense to the theatres that issue them.

This weekend I'm taking part in the Cycletta event at Whipsnade. I've only been out on my bike once so not what you call serious training. I'll just be pleased to get round in my allotted two hours. Hope I don't get a puncture as I'm terrible at changing inner tubes.

Fringe Review - 4 stars

2011-08-23T03:49:00.000-07:00

Fringe Review

Edinburgh Fringe 2011

The King's Got Donkey's Ears

Genre: Storytelling

****

Venue: Scottish Storytelling Centre

Low Down

Inventive puppet theatre created by “Theatre of Widdershins” in this original tale of a king cursed with donkey’s ears. Colourful characters, excellent props and a pertinent moral to the story make this show a winner.

Review

This is an excellent puppet theatre storytelling exercise in which a king is asked to judge a musical battle between Apollo and Pan. For his efforts he is cursed by the loser in the form of having donkey’s ears where his human ears used to be. Unable to face the world he locks himself away and wears a hat at all times, even in the bath. However, when his head starts itching he is forced to enlist the help of Luigi, the royal barber, who sees to his hair-clipping needs every two weeks. Sworn to secrecy and in danger of being beheaded if he tells, Luigi becomes ill and depressed, weighed down by the burden of this increasingly heavy secret.

This piece is full of lovely characters and well crafted puppets, with colourful costumes and well chiselled personalities. Set obviously in ‘olden times’, Luigi the Italian barber could well be working in a high street barber shop in modern times, which works for the language of this production too. Apollo loves himself and says he’s “sexy” and the fairy “will surely fancy him”.

The set changes ingeniously from green forest to stone castle in the blink of an eye. Made of fabric, they turn inside out as easily as a jumper. There is a lovely section when the barber’s secret descends down into the ground and a part of the set unfolds showing the geology of the earth, and as we follow the secret down we also uncover the secrets of the earth - a nice touch. Lovely renaissance recorder music provides a fitting accompaniment to the lively action.

The story is well delivered by Andy Lawrence, who is also the creator of the piece. Often he is in the audience in the front row cajoling and creating an intimacy through his narrative in which laughter is an integral tool.

A nice touch were the program notes too, in which the puppet characters are given biographies as if they were real actors. Thus the character of a flute-playing minstrel is “La Fawndah Wheelie-toes”, so called as she rides a unicycle. Luigi, we read, as well as adding “continental flavour to the show” is also the driver and carpenter for the production. It’s an excellent idea as it allows the parents to continue and keep the story of the show alive after it has finished, and there is also a spot the difference exercise on the rear to further engage the child. Rather than a ‘throw-away toy’ this show has longevity and I’m sure the young audience will be thinking about it well after the show has finished.

Like all good stories it has several levels and can be experience as a damn good yarn on the one hand and a mythic and universal tale of what can happen when something wins over its opposite on the other. This is a very thorough production and strikes a balance between laughter and crafted storytelling, with the tale leading way.

Reviewed by Darran Laine 17th August, 2011

Website :
Theatre of Widdershins

Broadway baby review - 4 stars (Ian Billings)

2011-08-12T01:06:00.001-07:00

Lend me your (Donkey) ears

In the perfect setting of the Scottish Storytelling Centre, sixty or so children of varying ages and sizes sat enraptured by the accomplished storytelling and puppetry of the Theatre of Widdershins. Not only funny, not only highly inventive, not only a bright and original story - one with which I was unfamiliar - but by far the most imaginative, creative use of staging in Edinburgh. Amazed little faces watched enthralled as each scene brilliantly and cleverly transformed into another. Though complex and detailed, the plot is delivered with clarity and care by a performer who clearly knows how to work his audience - starting slightly tentatively but gaining confidence and momentum as the show proceeded.
Andy Lawrence, the sole performer of this delightful piece, conducts his audience with consummate skill, slowly and considerately delivering his gentle tale. Each scene of the story allowed him to offer up yet another inventive and intriguing character or device, much to the uncontained delight of the audience. He even finds time to put the puppets aside with some inventive audience participation, indulging in a hilarious piece of brain surgery - thrills and coos as strange objects are drawn out from the patients head.
In world full of brand names, mass marketing and corporate middle ground children's entertainment, it’s a rare thrill to meet a children's performer who takes as much care and effort and his work as Andy Lawrence. It's a show riddled with surprises, humour and some excellent puppet work. The love and care he takes in the creation of his work is inspiring, and is well-rewarded by the attention given it by the audience. And there's certainly enough here to keep any child diverted. A happy, gentle and loving show well worth a visit by children of all ages!

Wet Wednesday in Edinburgh

2011-08-10T12:32:00.000-07:00

Not much happened today. We did the show and the audience was a bit smaller than it has been, but that's because all the 2 for 1 offers are finished. Our show was cancelled this afternoon so we just went to play air hockey for a couple of hours.

Still no reviews. It's the most frustrating about being at Edinburgh.

Settling in....

2011-08-09T13:22:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how quickly we settle in to the routine of Edinburgh. It's only our third show but with it being our 6th year in a row it all soon feels like home. Bit tired today as I sat up watching the news until 3am. The riots in London seemed dangerously close to our composer's home in Enfield so I thought I'd better keep an eye out for him.

Today's been a nice sunny day here in Edinburgh. Lovely audience in again today - so nice to meet so many regulars. Thanks for supporting the show. Did a photo shoot this morning with a couple of the other puppets at the venue.

Went to see The Beta Males this afternoon. Sorry lads but I thought your show was very disappointing (because you're bound to read my blog). I wonder if you need to be under 30 to really enjoy sketch comedies. Once you've seen a couple of 5 start shows, other ones have trouble matching up to them.

No celebrities spotted today.

It's raining in Edinburgh...and my shoes are leaking

2011-08-07T14:27:00.000-07:00

Started off the day by going to see 'The Butterfly Effect' by Variete Velociped - a Swedish band. What a gem. Three amazing musicians and such humour - Andy and I both cried when we left at the sheer joy of the show (how soft!)

Anyway, with the rain still falling heavily in Edinburgh I decided I couldn't cope with my leaking old shoes any longer so headed off to Schuh. Dangerous move. I ended up with another beautiful pair of Simple shoes; Zak got some Converse with question marks all over them; and Erin got the most beautiful pair of flowery Doc Marten's.

Gorgeous aren't they?

First Show done....

2011-08-06T11:26:00.000-07:00

Lovely audience for our first show and so nice to see so many familiar faces from previous years at the Fringe. Thank you so much for coming back.

It's been a wet one here in Edinburgh and we got drenched on the way to Zoo Southside. I seem to have booked to see any shows with puppetry in and now realise that that was probably a bad idea. It's not that we are super critical, it's just that we have seen so much puppetry that very little surprises us. Just saw a very strange little show 'A Day in November'. The puppetry was great as was the puppet but the story was about a 100 year old puppet deciding to die. I'm so glad it wasn't any longer than 40 minutes. It's hard to watch such ernest stuff.

Most amusing aspect of today was watching Zak get chatted up on the bus by an Edinburgh teenager who was completely off her head. She spotted him as she got on with her mates and made a beeline to sit down next to him. Then she tried to engage him in conversation - "Hello" "Give us one of your badges!" What a charmer!

No show tomorrow so we're off to watch lots of other people's shows.

First Performance at the Fringe today!

2011-08-06T03:15:00.000-07:00

Our Fringe 2011 adventure starts today, and we've got a lovely big audience in - very nearly sold out in advance sales. So no reviews yet, and I don't think we've got any reviewers in until Monday.

Yesterday we were out watching shows. We saw two puppetry acts and to be honest they were quite bad. Thankfully our last show of the day was from Humphrey Kerr - Dimmock Watson Nazi Smasher and that was truly engaging and hilarious.

Zak and I are having a small celebrity spotting competition (we mean out and about in Edinburgh not on stage): so far I have seen Phil Jupitas, Dave Gorman, Stephen Frost, Andrew Maxwell, and Mark Watson. Neither of us managed to see John Malkovitch though.

Hello Edinburgh

2011-08-03T01:57:00.000-07:00

We're back in our lovely flat in Gayfield Square. Sadly there's not a tram in site. I was really looking forward to nipping about on them and now it all looks like it's never going to happen. Good news this year is our bus stop has been reinstated! So no long trek back up Leith Walk when we come home weary from a late show.

Yesterday saw us get out show into the Scottish Storytelling Centre (in the rain). Andy then spent the day rehearsing. Erin and I popped in to say hello to everyone and the welcome we got was really like returning to a family. Thanks for that... particularly Jo, who is always so pleased to see us (and us, her).

It was all relatively quiet. I love seeing Edinburgh like that before all the mayhem starts.

Today is the first day of the Fringe with some of the big venues doing previews of their shows. We are off to see 'Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines', and our Fringe favourites 'Morgan and West'. As they are at the Gilded Balloon that will also mean an opportunity to have a delicious pancake.

Oh and by the way, Andy is being very rude about the waterproof that I bought yesterday. Who comes to Edinburgh without a waterproof. Well, me. So I nipped off to T K Maxx and found something that I thought would do... you may get to see a picture of it if you are lucky. Andy says I look like a coach - does he mean I look as big as a bus?

REVIEW: Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows Part II (12)

2011-07-17T13:42:00.000-07:00

Eight of us went to Cambridge Picturehouse to see the midnight showing of Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows part II. The audience were suitably attired and it was a really nice experience to watch the last of these much loved films in such company.

The film grabbed me from the start. This was going to be an all action rollercoaster of a film in comparison to the teenage angst and journey of the first part (which I adored). It's so hard to take a much loved book and turn it into a film - there are always going to be parts missing that the reader wishes were still in there. The film is magnificent and is a totally fitting finale to this incredible series of films and books.

4 1/2 stars

Garden Farm Festival

2011-07-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we trekked up to Derbyshire to visit our old neighbours who have taken on running a farm in Lea, near Matlock. We were delighted to be asked to perform 'The King's Got Donkey's Ears!' in one of their barns, and despite the weather we had a lovely big audience. Even Skip the farm dog joined in.... he seemed to know what Scruffibus was saying to him.

REVIEW: Brides Maids (15)

2011-06-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

I liked Kristen Wiig in 'The Flight of the Conchords' and so hoped for great things from this film. She didn't disappoint. It's witty and edgy right from the start. The characters and friendships are convincing.

There's a lot of talk about this being a feminists movie, but I think that's doing this film a disservice. It's just a brilliant piece of cinema in it's own right. It definitely deserves a place next to 'The Hangover' as a breathe of fresh air after so many bad wedding films.

The cringy humour is played to its fullest and it's so nice to have decent lines for women in a film. I'm tired of them not getting the best jokes and quite often the two dimensional characters. This film goes a long way towards redressing that balance.

The sharp dialogue means that you totally want the evil boyfriend to be dumped, and the lovely cuddly cop to get the girl.

4 1/2 stars

REVIEW: Bad Teacher (15)

2011-06-29T14:17:00.000-07:00

To be honest, I just don't know what makes anyone want to create a film like this. What is it trying to be - a comedy? I didn't laugh once. The casting is totally off - Cameron Diaz is suppposed to be a rubbish teacher but there isn't anything in the film that would make you believe that she would have ever gone into such a profession. Justin Timberlake is laughable and his acting appalling. Don't waste your time and money seeing this pile of drivel... Go home, log in to Lovefilm and rent something decent instead.

No stars.

Downsview Guest House, Ashford

2011-06-27T03:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend we were in Kent. Lovely audiences in Folkestone - and what a treat to be there while the Triennial was happening. The town was buzzing. We had a great meal in Googies!

We stayed in one of the nicest guest houses we've ever been in. Nothing was too much trouble for the owners and the rooms were magnificent. Don't bother with the noisy large hotel chains in Ashford - opt for this lovely, spacious and quiet retreat.

Billy Goats Gruff celebrate 400th show!

2011-06-18T06:24:00.000-07:00

We're just about to perform the 400th show of 'Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tails'. The cast would just like to say a big thank you to everyone who has been to see them. They are still going strong but are about to head for a well earned rest in the shed at the bottom of the garden!

Edinburgh Fringe Programme is out!

2011-06-09T08:52:00.000-07:00

The Edinburgh Fringe programme arrived in my letter box yesterday and, believe it or not, I have managed to get through the whole thing with my highlighter pen and sticky markers and I'm thrilled to say that there are loads of shows that I am really looking forward to. I haven't felt quite so excited by the line up the last few years but there are some real corkers in there this time.

New Perspectives Theatre Company are doing "Those Magnificent Men" - lovely advert!; Arkle Theatre Company are performing "The 39 Steps" which is one of my all time favourite stories; Morgan and West: Crime Solving Magicians (their new show - should be simply fantastic).

Calm before the Storm

2011-05-22T10:17:00.000-07:00

After the madness of the Easter holidays, it's been really nice to take a breather and concentrate on building the new show. Although there has been a slight diversion while Andy makes a new 'Scruffibus'. Hope everyone will like him as much as the old one.

We have got our copy and image into the Edinburgh Fringe and now we will sit back and wait for the Fringe brochure to come out on June 10th. Then we will be madly promoting the show.

Something Exciting's happening in Bedford

2011-03-15T07:06:00.000-07:00

If you live in Bedfordshire then don't miss your chance to take part in an amazing event this weekend. The empty shops at Castle Quays will be filled with exciting events. I myself am really looking forward to taking part in Lisa Tilley's Junk Jewellery workshop. There's live music, workshops, exhibitions and all sorts of events. Starts at 10am on Saturday and Sunday. Make sure you don't miss our three little exhibits on the street opposite the museum. We are away on tour so couldn't actually be around to take part but we thought we'd be there in spirit.

Those Billy Goats are now romping all over England!

2011-02-26T06:27:00.000-08:00

Arabian Nights has now been retired to one of the five sheds in our garden, and those Billy Goats Gruff are very happy to be out and performing again. Andy's had a busy half term touring and all the shows have been sold out, so that's great!

Happy New Year

2010-12-27T05:02:00.000-08:00

We plan on making this quite a busy year - we're going to be actually performing four of our shows in one year! Something which we haven't done for a long time. There's still one month to catch Arabian Nights which will then be retired. From February onwards, it will be then be Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tails, followed by The King's Got Donkey's Ears! from July to early October. Then we'll be bringing out our brand new version of The Elves & The Shoemaker.

All public performances are listed on our website: www.widdershins.co.uk

Bedford School Theatre - what a gem!

2010-09-08T13:03:00.000-07:00

We just performed at Bedford School Theatre. What a lovely audience! Thanks for all your lovely comments after the show. I just wanted to let anyone know who reads this what a gem this theatre is. Don't be put off by the fact that it's in the grounds of one of the most beautiful private schools around. Treat yourself to a gentle stroll through such a lovely place and discover a world of theatre as far away from tribute bands as you can possible get. I'm off to see Bane I and II there on Friday 17th September. It's a lovely space with comfy seats and amazing programming. Are the good old days of the Bowen West back - I think so. We just want even more shows and for that to happen, the staff need to know that the audience is out there. So come on all you Bedfordians..... support your local theatre!

Probably the last review we'll get from this Edinburgh

2010-08-29T04:49:00.000-07:00

Fringe Family: Mary Brennan

26 Aug 2010

The Songbird, Royal Botanic Gardens ****; The Night Keeper, Hill Street Theatre ***; Arabian Nights, Scottish Storytelling Centre ***

Three lost tales of Scheherazade are on offer in Arabian Nights, above, along with a bountiful array of strikingly artful puppets, props and scenery.

Andy Lawrence is such an absorbing storyteller – affable, whimsical, with a twinkle of roguish humour – that you’d cheerfully listen to him just yarning of tricksters and gullible fools, and poor men whose quick wits save them from evil genies. But Lawrence seemingly isn’t content just to paint with words. He and the Theatre of Widdershins have come up with sumptuous miniature sets that see the bazaars and buildings of Baghdad and Samarkand emerge, appropriately, from within books.

There’s not a video graphic in sight, just good old-fashioned storytelling and puppetry that sees an hour simply speed past.

Turn up early, or linger on at the Scottish Storytelling Centre afterwards – there’s a beguiling ‘hands-on’ installation beside the cafe where little fingers can open doors or search inside nooks to discover more of the stuff of stories.

Couple of quiet days....

2010-08-20T03:38:00.000-07:00

Well, the Edinburgh school term has started and so our audiences have dropped off - although they are still as enthusiastic. In fact, they are buying even more CD's than before so hopefully they are new audiences that have just discovered us. We've had really mixed reviews of the show, and yet again we haven't managed to be short listed for a Total Theatre award - despite this being our most visual show. It's quite hard to keep your morale up when the mediocre reviews come in. We work so hard and put so much effort into the shows, and really in terms of children's theatre, our work is up there with that of the best companies but yet there doesn't seem to be any real recognition of theatre for children. I've been to see a few shows for children but to be honest they've been awful - and then you read that they have got 4 and 5 star reviews and you realise that so many reviewers have absolutely no idea about children's theatre. As long as it makes them laugh and keeps them from running around for an hour then it's a hit. I'm seriously worried that society is "dumbing down" too far. Children need inspiration not more fart and poo jokes! Even stand ups seem to resort to jokes about bodily functions!

By the way, if you do feel the need for fart and poo jokes then The List Operators is for you.... otherwise stay well clear!

The Stage

2010-08-18T12:14:00.001-07:00

Arabian Nights

Theatre of Widdershins

Scottish Storytelling Centre until Monday August 30, 2010

Most stories coming out of Baghdad at the moment are not really suitable for kids, but this show is different. Arabian Nights celebrates a time when Scheherazade told the Persian king a different tale every night for 1001 nights.

Three of Scheherazade’s stories are compellingly recounted in this puppet show, lovingly created and performed by Andy Lawrence.
The smell of incense hangs heavy in the air. Lawrence sits in a corner calmly playing a drum – which he invites children to tap before the show begins.
We then meet a penniless, bearded trader ("it's Santa" a child cheered), a gullible man who mistreats his donkey Mustafa Carrot, and a lazy fisherman – OK, the last one’s probably not Baghdad-based.
The tales are all beautifully told, although the main attraction here is the puppets themselves. Big, goggley eyes and elaborate costumes mean that children remain engrossed throughout and ensure messages about animal cruelty and staying positive despite adversity are absorbed.
An hour was perhaps too long for the youngest in the audience. But even they will take home happy memories of stories that celebrate a part of the world that has been a war zone since before they were born.

Review by Lauren Paxman

Published online at 13:25 on Tuesday 17 August 2010

Only 3 stars from The Big Issue!

2010-08-18T12:11:00.000-07:00

Arabian Nights

17/08/2010

Sights, sounds and scents of exotic East @ The Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh

Arabian NightsThe Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh3/5
You walk into the theatre and are automatically hit with a strong smell of incense which conjures images of a busy Arabian market. The storyteller, exotically dressed and sitting in front of a simple yet effective set, taps a drum to a slow rhythmic beat, encouraging the children to take a turn, also adds spice to the atmosphere and transports you to a magical Middle East of myth and legend.

Andy Lawrence is the narrator and puppeteer bringing to life three tales demonstrating a tryptic of moral messages – The Dream, The Fool and His Donkey and The Fisherman and the Genie.

He describes these as “lost tales” and there is perhaps a reason for this. They are not strong storylines, but Lawrence impresses in other ways especially with his use of multi-sensual theatrics, which compensate for the relatively substandard tales.

The many puppets used throughout the performance, including a flexible belly dancer, grumpy old lady and scruffy donkey were all hand-crafted by Lawrence and they are beautiful creations, but to a child – and even some adults – they can appear rather scary, especially when left lifeless.

One man, a simple set, three stories with life affirming messages and beautifully crafted puppets all add up to an entrancing 60 minutes.
Beth Eckersley

Fest Mag's review

2010-08-18T12:08:00.001-07:00

Arabian Nights

Tuesday 17 August by Louise Black and Fin Rutherford

Show info

Arabian Nights

Outside John Knox House7–30 Aug, not Sundays, 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Louise Black says...

Bedfordshire puppetry company the Theatre of Widdershins have built a strong reputation at the Fringe for their adaptations of fairy tales and legends. This year, storyteller Andy Lawrence leads us deep into the Middle East, enticing us from the initial waft of incense into a mystical world of folklore and fairies, belly dancers and donkeys.

A master of his craft, Lawrence weaves three tales of wonder, enhanced by emotive music and elaborate puppets of all shapes and sizes. The colourful set is astounding, full of secret compartments and surprises, every nook and cranny serving a purpose. Props hidden within props leave you guessing and gasping in amazement at the intricacies of the design and stage management. It is no mean feat to engage an audience of such a wide age range, but this production does so effortlessly. It's an inspirational example of how powerful and accessible an art form storytelling can be.

Fin Rutherford says...

Arabian Nights is a fantastic puppet show that I really enjoyed. I got a real feel for the show as soon as I walked in with the colourful lighting, the relaxing drumming music, the sweet smell of perfume and the creative scenery.

The storyteller was brilliant and held my attention throughout. He told three different tales using lots of amazing puppets of all shapes and sizes that popped out of nowhere. He also used props in a clever way, like the storybooks on stage that opened up to reveal different items that set the scene. Each puppet had a different voice even though there was only one man – that was cool! There were also lots of funny bits like the belly dancers and the flying carpet.

The hour flew by and I didn’t want the show to end. Tickets are selling fast so if you don’t want to miss this wonderful show you better be quick!

Just 4 stars from The List this year....

2010-08-15T00:51:00.000-07:00

Arabian Nights ****
Source: The List (Issue 665)

Date: 14 August 2010
Written by: Kelly Apter

Tales from old Baghdad

As soon as you walk into the Storytelling Centre, you’re met with the exotic aroma of burning incense. That, and a stage filled with promise – middle eastern and otherwise. Andy Lawrence and his company, Theatre of Widdershins, have built up a formidable reputation at the Fringe in recent years. We’ve come to expect intricate sets that reveal surprise after surprise, beautifully crafted puppets that come alive in Lawrence’s capable hands, and well-loved tales re-told in his inimitable fashion.

With Arabian Nights we once again score all three, even if it’s not quite the triumph of previous productions such as The Kings Got Donkey’s Ears or Elves and the Shoemaker.

Of the 1001 of Scheherazade’s tales available to him, Lawrence has chosen three – The Dream, The Fool and His Donkey and The Fisherman and The Genie. He calls them ‘lost’ tales – mainly because Disney and its ilk haven’t got their hands on them. But perhaps there’s a reason for that – they don’t have the strongest of plots.

That said, Lawrence does wonders with them. Three giant books sit piled on top of cushions, each one containing all manner of puppets and props, with special mention going to the hat that grows ears and the smoke-producing genie bottle. Lawrence can’t put a foot wrong when it comes to set design and storytelling, but on this occasion, he’s the main event, not the material

Public reviews

2010-08-13T02:59:00.001-07:00

Ed Fringe 2010: Arabian Nights – Scottish Storytelling Centre

Writer: Theatre of Widdershins

Director: Theatre of Widdershins

Reviewer: Deborah Klayman

The Public Reviews Rating:

Finding something engaging enough to take children to is always a challenge in the festival, particularly when you have children of varying ages. Fortunately, Bedfordshire-based Theatre of Widdershins are a company you can rely on, with every production offering superb sets and storytelling, and practically perfect puppetry.

The audience enters to a smell of incense and the sound of drumming. The storyteller takes his time meeting the children in the audience and letting them play the drum before settling in to recount his stories. In this version of Arabian Nights, we hear three of Sheherazade’s lost tales rather than the expected Aladdin and Ali Baba, and each is ably narrated and performed by the incomparable Andy Lawrence. The first story is about a man called Jadha, who journeys a long way to find wealth and happiness. The second is about a talking donkey, and the third a fisherman and a genie: each tale is entertaining and unique with the wonderful Widdershins puppets to assist Andy and delight the audience.

In addition to the storyteller and puppets, atmospheric music and wonderful scenery are employed to make this experience memorable. It was a pity that Sheherazade wasn’t utilised more and that perhaps one of the stories wasn’t more well-known, but the kids didn’t seem to mind and sat rapt for the whole hour. A wonderful production, and a delightful company that you will want to see again and again.

Runs until 30th Au

First review - and it's 5 stars!

2010-08-11T00:46:00.000-07:00

Fringe Review

Edinburgh Fringe 2010

Arabian Nights

Genre: Children's Theatre

*****

Venue: Scottish Story Telling Centre

Low Down

Andy Lawrence, superb storyteller and puppet-maker extraordinaire, is happily back at the Fringe with the latest offering from Theatre of Widdershins – and what an offering it is! The show is pure magic; funny and entrancing from start to finish, you’ll wish there was time for yet more stories when then show draws to close. I can’t think of a better place to take your children and everyone you know alongside them. A wonderful time is guaranteed.

Review

As I settled into my seat at the Scottish Story Telling Centre, it was immediately clear that before me was a very special production. Full of beautiful and intriguing items, the set glimmers mysteriously in the stage lights as the ever-watchful storyteller (Andy Lawrence) gazes on. There were excited whispers in the audience -‘where do you think the puppets are hiding?!’ - and with the dimming of the house lights the buzz of audience expectation was happily proven justified.

The show is inspired by the tales of Arabian Nights, and puppets galore soon appear from hidden nooks and crannies, prompting audible gasps of amazement. Lawrence proves himself to be a skilful puppeteer, as well as an engaging storyteller, and as he brings each character to life all found themselves hanging on his every word. The characters he presents are wonderfully named and amusingly detailed, and the craftsmanship involved in the puppets is truly astounding. Lawrence makes all the puppets himself, and each is perfectly suited to its part in the story.

This is a faultless production. So often theatre aimed at children tries to get away merely with silly words and a bit of a sing-a-long, but the Theatre of Widdershins are far above such cheap tricks. They give the audience so much: a wonderful story of adventure, mild peril, and whimsy; beautiful and effective sound design and music (by Martin Thornton); and so many fantastical things to look (and laugh) at. It is clear that an incredible amount of work has been invested behind the scenes, and Widdershins are reaping the magical benefits.

This is a company who just get it. And the real triumph of the show is that everyone, young and old alike, had a simply wonderful time.

It is my great pleasure to give this show 5 stars without hesitation. May there be many more!

Reviewed by Rebecca Tay 10/08/2010

Website :
http://www.theatre-of-widdershins.co.uk/

1pm

Scottish Story Telling Centre

Lovely new pics

2010-08-10T02:29:00.000-07:00

Andy managed to cope with the photo shoot that we had organised, despite the fact that us three were in the audience giggling at all the silly faces he had to pull. Hopefully some of the papers might pick up the images and then come and review the show?

Went to see two shows yesterday. First was 'Reel to Reel' in the Pleasance Grand - this was "cheese on stage". This is probably the first show that I've attended at the Fringe where I've actually felt young - the average age of the audience was about 70. The songs they covered were all from the golden days of movies... 'Diamonds are a girl's best friend'; 'Singing in the rain'; 'Hit the road Jack'; etc. Unfortunately, they felt the need to string the songs together with a terrible story about twins who don't really get on but have to travel the world in a race to see who will inherit the family business. You can guess what happens. Still the other 749 people in the audience loved it despite it's cheesiness and sang along (badly) to the songs all the way through, and then gave them a standing ovation aftewards.

The second show we saw was 'Idiots of Ants'. We expected good things from this as it had received high praise from a friend - but was a load of pants it was! Idiots of Pants!!! It was awful. I've given it 1 star and that was only for the sound effects sketch. The rest was awful and if I hadn't have been trapped in the middle of a row, I would have left. Are people so easily pleased these days? There wasn't an original joke, or any rapport with themselves or the audience. I don't know which of the 4 comedians irritated me the most. That was one of those shows where you wish you could get the hour of your life back to spend more fruitfully cleaning out your bin!!!

Oh, the sound of the pipes.

2010-08-07T10:19:00.000-07:00

Arrived at our venue today just in time to watch the Pipefest procession go by. Boy, was it loud! So many pipe bands filing down the Royal Mile and then the High Street - it was a really amazing sight.

Video of the Pipers

So we've now done our first show to a full house - sorry that it was so hot in there! Lights, so many people, etc made it a bit stifling. Everyone seemed to enjoy the show and there was lots of great feedback. Long may this continue.

We've had a day off from seeing shows ourselves but treated ourselves to lunch out at Valvona & Crolla. It's an amazing Italian shop but in fact, as vegetarians, we weren't that impressed with the food in the cafe. We prefer Vittoria's up Leith Walk.

Ovid's Metamorhposes

2010-08-07T04:14:00.000-07:00

What a hit this show is. Entertaining, educational, and extremely funny. The cast are all very good and equally strong which makes for great dynamics between the characters. I don't think I had realised how wonky the Greeks were until I saw this.

As for us, well, it's our first show today and it's sold out so that's brilliant. Feeling nervous and hoping that all our loyal audience will like this show as much as the others. This bit is always nerve-wracking. Let you know later how we got on.

First shows at the Fringe

2010-08-04T13:01:00.000-07:00

First two shows at the Fringe. The List Operators for Kids - oh dear! Aren't audiences tired of fart, poo and bottom jokes? Where were the lists? There were only two proper lists in the whole show and a whole lot of padding. These guys are comedians and it's make me even more sure that a lot of comics have absolutely no idea what kids find funny. Jason Byrne is the only person that I've seen do both kids humour and adult humour brilliantly. Children have more sophisticated humour than this. Vomitting green stuff at the end?

The second show we've seen was 'Keepers'. This was a moving and intense piece of theatre about the isloation of two lighthouse keepers. There was some amazing physical theatre, and the live music and sound effects guy was just totally brilliant. Amazing piece of theatre that everyone should see. I love it when you see something so brilliant at the Fringe... these two characters were so totally engaging.

Back in Edinburgh again....

2010-08-04T01:19:00.000-07:00

Seven hours in the road yesterday, and now we're back. And back in our lovely flat as well. Can't wait for Andy and Zak to get here tonight so our Edinburgh can start proper.

Esh and I are off to see our first two shows today at the Pleasance Courtyard - The Light Operators and Keepers. Let the fun begin!

Relaxing week in Hunstanton???

2010-07-23T11:40:00.000-07:00

Well I thought that I was going to have a lovely relaxing week in Old Hunstanton to prepare for a hectic Edinburgh to come.... but now the Lawrence's have decided to vist (and stay) en masse!!! What will this mean for me: a week of catering for 16 people - and I hate cooking. Perhaps I can keep taking the dogs for long walks to escape! Good idea.....

I'm really looking forward to seeing the house that we are staying in. It's so near the beach, I think it might be a dream.

Help.... more shows please!

2010-07-05T08:26:00.000-07:00

Due to the fact that we only have 4 shows booked for July, Andy is having to turn his energy to something else. And that something is our garden..... it now looks completely devestated. He's decided not to build a new show this year but I, and my plants, are now beginning to regret that decision. Can't that man relax at all?

I may have found something to save us. I suggested that it might be a good idea if he got fit before Edinburgh. So now as well as walking the dogs for an hour every morning, he is also disappearing off on his bike for several hours every evening. So expect to see a more svlelt Andy performing this year.

Tickets are selling really well for the Fringe so far. It's much more scary when you don't have any funding behind you, or anyone helping you with the PR. But I'm enjoying the challenge now that we have sold out at the Fringe for the first three days. There are still tickets available at the venue for those days so please book soon and grab yourselves some cheaper tickets.

Arabian Nights | Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2010

2010-06-19T05:54:00.000-07:00

Arabian Nights Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2010

The Fringe programme is here and tickets are available to buy online. It's always so exciting for us this time of year. Can't wait to see all our Edinburgh friends again.

New Arabian Nights CD available

2010-06-05T02:29:00.000-07:00

We're very excited here as we've just received a delivery of 1,000 Arabian Nights CDs. They are looking brilliant, and we're quite proud of them.

Applause Rural Touring

2010-05-16T08:12:00.001-07:00

Lovely weekend touring some most gorgeous village halls in Sussex. Particularly impressed yesterday - and must admit rather jealous - of the village hall in Cooksbridge. Solar, wind turbine, heat exchanger - never seen anything like it before. I really want one of those in Potton! Will someone buy me one, PLEASE????

Easter Tour

2010-04-04T03:39:00.000-07:00

We arrived at our flat in Harrogate on Friday evening, and settled in with a very nice meal. Our first venue on our tour was Pocklington Arts Centre yesterday. What a beautiful theatre. The audience were so nice and so enthusiastic - I hope that we get invited back. Massive thanks to Dave, our techie, for all his help getting everything in and out, for tea and biscuits and for doing a fantastic job with the lighting.

We've got a couple of days off now in which to explore Harrogate. On Tuesday we'll be in Barton Under Humber - another new theatre to us.

Harrogate here we come...

2010-03-31T10:34:00.000-07:00

Just about to leave to start our Easter tour off in Harrogate. Staying at a lovely flat and then taking the show to Pocklington, Barton-under-Humber and then Harrogate. New theatres for us - so if you know anyone who lives in the area ask them to come along.

The new show is going down really well. It looks amazing in village halls as Andy has completely excelled himself with this set. Sand dunes behind, arabic temples, jars, jewels, flying carpets, belly dancers and an enormous blue genie.

GCSE Drama sadness

2010-03-16T15:19:00.000-07:00

My son is taking GCSE Drama and he very excitedly got the script for Grimm Tales by Carol Ann Duffy and set about working out how best to stage Hansel & Gretel. Unfortunately, no one else shared his enthusiasm - stating that they thought the examiners wouldn't be impressed by panto!!! They obviously have no idea of the quality of writing that our current Poet Laureate has created. I saw Grimm Tales at the Young Vic about 15 years ago and was completely wowed by it. The staging was fantastic; the writing was brilliant; and the acting was superb. Instead he is having to do the Holocaust - a very worthy subject but something which he knows very little about.

Wonderful Wiltshire

2010-03-14T04:13:00.000-07:00

Just been touring in Wiltshire. Thanks for the lovely welcome and enthuasiatic response to the new show. I'm just sorry that we don't seem to be there more often but Rural Arts Wiltshire like to vary the acts on offer so we do come whenever we are invited.

Massive thank you to Liz and Peter for putting us up in their house. That was the best breakfast I've had in ages.

Going Back to Edinburgh - this time UNFUNDED!!

2010-03-11T09:20:00.000-08:00

We've just signed up to go back to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival again - although this year we weren't lucky enough to get a grant. So it's a bit scary.

Audiences much smaller

2009-08-28T11:30:00.000-07:00

Well, we've had a really quiet week this week. The audiences hit an all time low today - there were about 20 people. What a shame that 5 star reviews; hot picks and top ten must sees just don't have the same effect when you are doing children's theatre. We have resisted flyering. Not sure that was the right decision but we just couldn't face it. We've been spoilt by the last two Edinburgh's when there was no nned to flyer.

Anyway, to finish Edinburgh we're off to the Power Plant tonight. That's at the Botanic gardens and looks very promising.

The Big Issue

2009-08-27T09:25:00.001-07:00

Fringe benefits for kids
18/08/2009

Most parents have schlepped up and down Edinburgh’s Royal Mile in August, waiting for a tug on the arm to instigate another 10 minute stop while our children stare at an acrobat or a man dressed as a fly.

It’s a decent day out in the sunshine but it’s worth considering that there are now numerous Fringe shows aimed squarely at kids, and some of them are even quite good.

For my six-year-old daughter’s money, the best (she’s seen) is Rapunzel and the Tower of Doom (Scottish Storytelling Centre, until Aug 30). A combination of old-fashioned story telling – narrated with wit, a proper sense of magic and brilliantly funny voices by Andy Lawrence – and charmingly homemade-looking puppets, this is an imaginative and well-judged presentation. The story elements that children know and love are all present, no abseiling princesses here, but there are enough modern touches, like the geeky lovestruck Kevin the Teenager character, to keep the story fresh and unpredictable.

Fringe Review - sounds like they like the show!

2009-08-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

Fringe Review
Edinburgh Fringe 2009
Rapunzel and the Tower of Doom
4 stars
Venue:
The Scottish Storytelling Centre

Low Down
Not only is the set wonderful, but the puppets are also beautifully designed, making this show a feast for the eyes and a visual spectacle for the imagination to chew on for some time later. What should also get children's imaginations going - and those of the adults too - is the darkness of the story, which Theatre of Widdershins have bravely reinstated, reclaiming Rapunzel from the realm of cheery, Disney-fied fairy tales.

Review
The Theatre of Widdershins has a long track record of producing quality children's puppet shows - 'Rapunzel and the Tower of Doom' is a worthy addition to their canon. A single man - apparently a fruit and veg seller - uses puppetry, silly wigs and a big hat to tell the story of the girl with the infamously long hair. I say 'allegedly'...Andy Lawrence is wasted on selling fruit and veg, and his sales patter is doomed form the moment he cheerfully points out that his stock is all plastic. Luckily, he's a winning and engaging story teller, chopping and changing between different voices with astounding ease; he doesn't even need the puppets/costumes some times.

The problem I've always found with fairy tales presented for children is that the original darkness and horror (the 'Grimmness', if you'll pardon the pun) is often either watered down or just removed. That leaves some fairy tales feeling pretty tame. Widdershins are braver than that. Most of the chilling darkness from the beginning of the Grimm tale is present and correct, especially in the figure of Mrs. Smith (a green witch with burning eyes). They've expanded here and there, filling in some detail and cheered it all up a bit, but in such a way that stays true to the spirit of the Grimms by focussing on entertaining the little ones.

What is particularly lovely about this production is that set, comprised of several fruit boxes that each contain a whole world. I lost count of the number of times something new was folded out of an innocent looking box or flap to subtly change the onstage environment. It must be a nightmare to fold it all back in again, but Lawrence seems happy to go through this nightmare with a smile every day. There's clearly a lot of care, attention to detail and love invested in the set alone, never mind the show as a whole. The puppets are also beautiful, and you really want to try sitting near the front on the right of the audience if possible; that way, you can really appreciate Rapunzel weeding a garden with such meticulous skill you'd be forgiven for forgetting she was a puppet.

It's not often you can say that a puppeteer has a good rapport with his puppets, but Lawrence really does. They have frequent aside to 'the big fella', a vague nod to them acknowledging their puppet status without being troubled by it. It's another indication that buckets of love have been invested in this winning production.

This is a charming yet dark tale, with some masterful design work going on. It's visually beautiful, and refuses to wrap its audience in cotton wool, but rather lets them have the darker stuff without over-doing it. Sit near the front, or you'll miss the details.
Reviewed by Richard T. Watson 27/08/09

The Scotsman - 4 stars

2009-08-22T14:12:00.000-07:00

Rapunzel and the Tower of Doom

By FIONA SHEPHERD
Published: 22/8/2009

THIS Theatre of Widdershins adaptation of the classic Brothers Grimm fairytale purports to reconnect to the dark roots of the story about the cloistered maiden with the long, golden locks.

But while this handsome puppet version is hardly candy-coated, there’s only so far one can go in front of a nursery-age audience.

Instead, the main strength of this production is its meticulous and imaginative design. The puppets are, by turns, cute, cuddly, comic and, in the case of the witch, wonderfully grotesque. The set, which starts off as a fruit and veg market (allowing for some daft vegetable puns), is not just exquisitely modelled but also cleverly conceived, as puppets and props emerge from hidden compartments and everyday objects such as a ladder are transformed for more exotic purposes in service to the story. Rapunzel’s tower, where she is imprisoned so that none of those pesky boys can get to her, is simply but beautifully realised.

Andy Lawrence, the show’s creator, is a relaxed, sympathetic storyteller in whom kids are happy to place their trust. But he is also a masterful technician, in the vein of Quentin Blake, illustrating his stories as he told them on Jackanory. Lawrence’s measured tone doesn’t miss a beat as he reacts to musical cues and calmly handles the demands of operating all the puppets and adapting the set around him.

Modern references to sleepovers and High School Musical – and the occasional allusion which will drift right over the heads of the kids and appeal to the adults – are casually slipped in without ever detracting from the fairytale.

Occasionally, Lawrence will step off stage and interact with the audience.

Although he is not big on a slapstick approach, there is a little surprise for the front rows near the end, which had the otherwise rapt audience with whom I watched squealing with glee.

Edinburgh Festivals Magazine Review

2009-08-13T11:32:00.001-07:00

HomeFringeKidsRapunzel and the Tower of Doom
Rapunzel and the Tower of Doom
WRITTEN BY AVA DENNIS | 11 AUGUST 2009

The Scottish Story Telling Centre @ 43-45 High Street
7-30 August, 11:00

Andy Lawrence’s performance brings to life an old tale in a way entertaining enough for both children and their parents alike, even throwing in a few puns and jokes for the older members of the audience. The stage is decked out with fake fruit stalls, where a fantastic set of puppets are used to tell the story of Rapunzel. Props are skilfully used by Lawrence throughout the show as he masters the difficult task of holding the attention of his young audience, with surprises constantly revealed by his inventive set.

Lawrence’s background as a BBC designer evidently helps, as his audience is held captivated by imaginative new objects or a change in character. His dramatisations and different voices are brilliant. Children were encouraged to show their enjoyment and they didn’t hold back, laughing and shouting out to the characters – this is the perfect show for children of a young age, and it’s easy to see why he has enjoyed three years of sell-out Fringe shows. The story is easy to follow, simply but inventively told, and I suggest that anyone with young children or grandchildren bring them to hear this tale!

British Theatre Guide

2009-08-12T15:58:00.001-07:00

Rapunzel and the Tower of Doom
Theatre of Widdershins
Scottish Storytelling Centre, The Netherbow
****

The classic tale of Rapunzel is retold by Andy Lawrence of Theatre of Widdershins with a mix of storytelling, music, puppetry, acting and use of masks. The story has a fruit and vegetable theme. There is quite a bit of word play around the names of vegetables … including a collie dog in a flower, and a chilly chilli. There is a lot of interaction with the audience and a comic line at the end which made most grown-ups in the audience laugh.

Andy tells the story with fiery passion and vigour. His use of the stage and props was interesting. There were boxes that flipped open to create different scenes in surprising ways. The costumes were basically masks that depicted different noses hair and hats. Andy was very good at doing the different characters and it was very easy to tell which character was speaking. You didn't even need to see the puppets moving. There was even a bit of singing, although the show was mostly puppetry and acting.

On a slightly negative point, some of the words (liquidise, for instance), may not have been suitable for 4-year olds, but nevertheless, there was enough to entertain the younger members of the audience and enough to entertain the older members as well.

Katya Conrad (aged 10)

Broadway Baby Review - not so good - 3 STARS

2009-08-12T02:33:00.000-07:00

Bloomin’ great fun!

This one-man show features engaging storytelling with a fruit and veg theme. It’s ably told by Andy Lawrence and a cast of adorable puppets who take on the main roles in the classic fairytale about the princess with golden hair who is trapped in a tower by an evil witch, but is eventually rescued by a handsome prince.

By the end of the show you’ll probably know more than you knew about Rapunzel the vegetable and certainly more than you ever wanted to know, but that’s no bad thing.

There is something for everyone in the production: enough visual antics to appeal to younger viewers, enough contemporary references to appeal to older kids and lots that grown-ups will find appealing. The structure of the show was a bit carrot-like: top and middle heavy, and the middle a bit long, but the end tapered out well, with some unexpected twists and turns helping the story advance towards its end. Despite the show’s theme, the wordplay was never corny and appealed to a cross-section of ages in the audience. There was quite a bit of direct interchange with the audience, which was very effective and which they youngsters in the audience squealed with pleasure at.

Lawrence’s puppetry skills are admirable and varied, and had his audience enthralled. However, despite defining the main characters easily by focusing on a certain sound or accent, there was some inconsistency in terms of the characters’ voices, with Mr Brusseltop coming over as a strange F1 hybrid of Russian, Scots and English, and the Prince ending up being transplanted from Spanish to Scottish linguistic soil and back again at alarming rates.

For maximum effect, sit in the front rows or along the side edges, or keep to the back if you want to just sit back and enjoy the show in a more passive way. Either way, you are unlikely to be disappointed.

Primary Times Review

2009-08-12T02:31:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered how Rapunzel got her unusual name? According to this version she is named after a rather unpleasant lettuce that tastes of trolls’ armpits and smelly socks! While this show might not encourage children to eat their greens, it will certainly keep them thoroughly entertained for an hour – just as important as healthy eating during the long summer holidays.
Theatre of Widdershins has produced another sell-out, crowd pleaser with Rapunzel. Beautifully crafted puppets ingeniously appear out of the many boxes of vegetables that litter the stage. The vegetable theme runs through the performance - it’s the first time I’ve ever know Rapunzel to have to choose between Colin Courgette and Juan Gonzalez de las patatas bravas!
It is a show full of crazy vegetable jokes, stunning puppets, a charming performance from puppeteer Andy Lawrence and some unfeasibly small garden gnomes. And it’s as much fun for the accompanying adults as it is for the children.
“It was so funny. I loved the witch’s fiery red eyes, and the silly hat that the prince with the funny voice wore. The puppets were really good, and I really liked when the witch and prince climbed the high tower. In fact, I really loved everything about it.” (Amelia, age 5)

5 Stars from The List

2009-08-11T00:58:00.000-07:00

First review in and it's 5 stars from the list.

Rapunzel and the Tower of Doom
Source: The List (Issue 636)
Date: 10 August 2009
Written by: Kelly Apter

Each year, Bedfordshire-based storyteller and puppeteer, Andy Lawrence packs up his bag of tricks and heads to the Fringe. And each year, on arrival, he unpacks a 5-star show filled with unique surprises. Happily, this year is no different.

Rapunzel and the Tower of Doom follows in the beautifully-crafted footsteps of Lawrence’s previous masterworks, The Kings Got Donkey’s Ears, Three Billy Goats Gruff and The Elves and the Shoemaker. His storytelling manner is warm and friendly, peppered with a few good jokes and some intentionally groan-worthy puns. But what really sets Lawrence apart are his sets.

Using a fruit and veg market as his starting point, he has built a hugely inventive collection of boxes, which open up to reveal all manner of people and places. Rapunzel’s family home, the witch’s garden and, of course, the tower itself are plucked from hidden pockets and folds until you start to wonder what’s going to come out next – and from where?!

The Rapunzel tale can easily be told in under five minutes, but Lawrence embellishes and extends it for another fifty without any hint of padding. Re-named characters, always with a fruit or veg spin, keep the audience chuckling. As does the three-pronged approach Lawrence takes to most of the puppets, giving us a small, medium and large version (the last being Lawrence himself).

Although aimed at ages 4+, the imagination and skill which goes into the Theatre of Widdershins' sets would surely be admired by all ages.

Andy steals the limelight.

2009-08-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

Well, there we are sitting in the audience watching a very strange version of Hamlet which involved a bingo game, when Andy shouts out Bingo... and his prize was to take over from the actor the role of Horatio. Can you believe it? Why is it always Andy?

I was convinced he would change the words he had to say to plug our show but he managed to behave himself!

Penny Dreadfuls....

2009-08-06T14:46:00.001-07:00

So now we've got 5 shows under our belts and the Fringe starts properly tomorrow! Juar been to see one of our favourites at Edinburgh, the Penny Dreadfuls. They've produced another brilliant show - so funny. They are the masters of overacting and I think that they may be inspiring some performances in our next production.

This morning, Erin and I went to see The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. It was over 2 hours long which is very unusual for the fringe. And there was no interval. Very serious but fabulously well done.

Yesterday's treat was Cocorico - french mime artists.

So we're starting to really enjoy ourselves and our first show is tomorrow. Will be nice to get started ourselves. Will let you all know how the ticket sales are doing tomorrow.

First show - what was that all about

2009-08-05T07:39:00.001-07:00

Alice through the looking glass. What can i say except i don't think lewis carroll had much to do with this. Tell you more later.

Just testing

2009-08-04T05:33:00.000-07:00

Just checking whether i can blogger from my phone.

We're here in Edinburgh

2009-08-04T02:21:00.000-07:00

We're in our flat in Edinburgh and it's completely lovely - the best so far! Take a look at the piccies. We've also got the nicest landlord. He left us milk, bread, tea bags, coffee, biscuits, wine, beer, pasta, cornflakes, beans, butter, oil, etc.... How generous.

We've really made ourselves at home already. The only person who isn't too sure is Merlin. I think he'll be alright once he's run up Carlton Hill.

Top 30 Show at the Fringe

2009-08-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

Thanks to The List, we've been named as one of the Top 30 shows to see in Edinburgh this year!!! They've given us a lovely write up and I really hope that this will help the show sell well. We really don't want to have to go flyering. I'd much rather spend my time watching other shows than forcing bits of paper onto people who don't want them.

We're busy packing and sorting this weekend ready for the journey up on Monday. I'll let you see some piccies of our flat as soon as we get there. We've no idea what it's going to be like. I've a horrible feeling that it might be a bit tiny.

It's nearly Edinburgh time!

2009-06-07T10:14:00.000-07:00

The Fringe brochure will be out this Wednesday, and then we know that we are getting really near to going to Edinburgh again. We'll be trying to get more press coverage this year - so wish us luck!

If you're coming up to Edinburgh then please do come and see us. We are performing at the Scottish Storytelling Centre everyday except Mondays from the 7th August to the 30th August.

The Edinburgh Book Festival brochure is also out this week. It's a lovely event and on at the same time as the Fringe.

Easter Hols!

2009-04-06T03:54:00.000-07:00

Holidays for most people but not for us. This is the time of year when we hit the road and this year we are in Wales for Easter. We're staying in Hay-on-Wye and going to theatres in Pontardawe, Abertillery, Ludlow and Aberystwyth.

By the way, if there's anyone out there who would have liked a badge from the new show but didn't manage to get one then do drop me a line.

Blogging starts again!

2009-01-19T05:31:00.000-08:00

Well, we're gearing up to for Edinburgh again - so I thought I'd better get in the habit of blogging again. This is the first chance I've had to do this. Sitting in Bedford library's new cafe - The Green Coffee co - with a large latte in front of me, seems like the perfect chance to do this. A cafe in a library - what a treat!!! I think that I will be here most Mondays!

My neighbour, Sarah, is taking part in the London Marathon this year. She hasn't done any running since her school days and she is going to be 40 this year!!! So anyone out there who would like to support her chosen charity - well that would be great. She's running in aid of the Family Holidays charity, something dear to her heart. Here's the link:

Happy Christmas Everyone!

2008-12-23T16:41:00.000-08:00

We've just done our last show of 2008 at Sutton Village Hall. What a lovely event that is and a splendid way to end the year. It's been our busiest year so far. Not sure Andy can manage any more shows than he's done this year. He's feeling burnt out.

We'd all like to wish everyone that's booked us or seen our shows this year a very merry Christmas.

See you in 2009!

Wild Child!

2008-08-21T09:53:00.000-07:00

Hi!!!!
I saw this REALLY good film called "Wild Child" but the only problemo was that it as a bit "WEIRD" for my kind of film.
The good thing about going to the cinema is:
1. YOU CAN GET THE BEST SWEET POPCORN
2. YOU CAN GET A MUNCH BOX AND THAT IS CHOCALATE STARS AND ORANGE OR APPLE JUICE AND POPPY-CORN... YUM!
3. YOU CAN GET ALL COMFY AND PUT YOUR FEET ON THE SEAT IN FRONT OF YOU (be warned coz sometimes people sit there)
3.YOU CAN SEE YOUR FAVE FILM ON A BIG SCREEN
4. YOU CAN NORMALLY SEE A BOWLING ALLEY NEAR THE CINEMA... THREE, TWO, ONE BOWL! YAY I GOT A STRIKE!
5. YOU CAN NORMALLY SEE A NICE RESTURANT NEXT TO THE CINEMA... FOOD!
so that is my top 5 fave things about the cinema.
Bu-bye for now!!!
JT
P.S We're actually going bowling tonight... I REALLY want to win... i'm ver competetive (I don't know how to spell "competetive")

Film for a change

2008-08-21T09:36:00.001-07:00

Still sold out and we've just heard that in fact we managed to sell out every day that's left as well. Brilliant news except for the fact that the Director of The Culture Show wanted to come on Saturday and we can't squeeze him in!!! How unfair is that??

Anyway, we've just been out to see 'Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging' - a really nice film based in Eastbourne. Lovely British film about teenage life... Erin missed a lot of it as she had to have her hands over her eyes whenever there was any kissing (which there was quite a lot of). Makes me want to go to Eastbourne. What made the film so good was seeing it in this amazing cinema (Screen 13 of the Cineworld in Fontainbridge). It has massive armchairs and with a coffee table in between each pair of seats. There was so much leg room you could almost layout flat. AND I HAD THE MOST AMAZING COFFEE ICE CREAM. What more could you want??

Erin Berin's Post.....

2008-08-19T12:55:00.000-07:00

Hi!!!!
Hello from Edinburugh! I've just seen these people (good dancers, but not a good type of dance) (I like old dance) who were kinda bad. It was dull and boring and dull and boring... (this could go on FOREVER) My fave show I've seen so far is probably... PLUCK! I'm not very good at typing stuff in so this might be a VERY short blog page.
I REALLY, REALLY, REALLY DON'T WANNA GO!!! This is the BEST holiday EVER!!!! My fave place at Ed is the High Street coz it's just so packed with brilliant stuff like there's a little hat stall (I'm planning to buy this ditzy blue bobbly hat) and, and, and, and... AND SO MUCH MORE!!!
Bye!

Week Three - Edinburgh Fringe

2008-08-19T12:43:00.000-07:00

Still sold out - but we think that our sold out run is just about to end. Thursday and Friday are looking a bit quiet. Schools have gone back and it's definitely making a difference. I'm going to send Erin out flyering tomorrow so that should bring the crowds in. We've had another review - a strange online place called 'Hairline'. Andy has been described a bit cruelly but I'll let you read it for yourselves:

Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tails
2008, Children's shows
The Three Billy Goats Gruff offers delightful stories to be enjoyed by young and old. A lovely set greets us, adorned with clouds and a faraway castle on top of a hill. The sign points back at the Magical Land of Three. Slowly a Sunflower creeps onstage revealing an older man with a waxed moustache and well kept white beard who is our storyteller for the next hour. He proceeds to tell us about having been to the Magical Land of Three and the fact that he has some fabulous stories to tell: The Three Little Pigs, Goldilocks and the Three Bears and the titular Three Billy Goats Gruff.
What happens next is the truly enchanting part as he lifts three large wooden number threes up and at the start of each tale, unlocks each one to reveal compartments containing puppets of the stories he is telling. The storytellers’ wagon is moved centre stage and serves as the platform on which to continue his narration. This too contains various compartments and sections that reveal further parts of his storytelling which are interesting reworking of the originals. They are contemporised but ultimately the characters within the stories are fleshed out quite a bit- why did the first pig build his house of straw? Why did Goldilocks go into the Three Bears House?
Each story is voiced accurately and un-self consciously (all important in children’s shows) and contains enough jokes in the stories to engage the adults as well as the children. The show lasts an hour and is absorbing however it does feel slightly overlong given that it is a large stage and the puppets used seem small in compairison. It is however a brave soul that does a Children’s Show at the Fringe and this mans’ bravery has certainly paid off.
4/5
Catriona Ruth Paterson

We've been up Arthur's Seat again today - and it absolutely poured with rain on us. Dogs love it there even though there are some terrorist swans that want to eat Merlin!

Are only show today was Bale de Rua - a brazilian dance show. None of us really liked it and it wasn't what we were expecting. Still the other 696 people in the audience seemed to love it! Maybe dance isn't my thing.

Thought I'd add a couple of pics of the kids in the flat doing what they do best!

Footsbarn are fabulous.

2008-08-16T07:07:00.000-07:00

Went to see 'A Midsummer's nights dream' last night in Footsbarn's Big Top. What an amazing company. They work so hard, and all take multiple parts. I've never seen Shakespeare done so well.

What a bit of magic to find at the Fringe.

As we've still managed to sell out everyday, we haven't had to spend any afternoons flyering! So, Arthur's seat was where we headed off to yesterday. The dogs were so happy. We made it to the top this year and the views of Edinburgh were fantastic.

Guess what - it's raining again!

2008-08-12T16:43:00.000-07:00

Our show has sold out again today - which is marvellous. Brief excitement of today was that someone from BBC Cbeebies had asked to come and see the show. Andy spent a few hours deciding what his TV name would be - 'Wacky Andy' seemed to be all he could come up with. Then the person from the Beeb cancelled.....

Didn't see any other shows today. Andy and Erin spent the afternoon painting their new boots! Will show you their efforts once they've finished.

FIVE STARS - THREE WEEKS!!

2008-08-11T09:02:00.000-07:00

Three Weeks have just printed their review of our show:

Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tails
Theatre of Widdershins/Escalator East to Edinburgh
Almost entirely sold out for the second year running, this show is the perfect place to take your kids this Festival. The storyteller has come from the magical land of Three with three wonderful stories to entertain you. The performance is full of fantastic puppets and has a bright, colourful set, helping to tell these tried and tested tales in a new and novel way. The Three Little Pigs made me laugh, and the audience were encouraged to join in with the huffing and puffing, which built a strong rapport with the storyteller. Goldilocks has a modern twist, and the Three Billy Goats Gruff boasts the best puppet (the Troll!). Get a ticket while you still can.
Scottish Storytelling Centre, 2 - 23 Aug (not 3, 10 or 17), 11.00am (12.00pm), £7.50 (£5.00), fpp 18.
tw rating 5/5
[dk]

And here's the review from The List:

Three Billy Goats Gruff
Source: The List (Issue 609)
Date: 7 August 2008
Written by: Kelly Apter
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Three is the magic number

He's done it again. Andy Lawrence, storyteller and puppet-maker extraordinaire, has created another perfect kids show. Back at the Fringe for the third year running, following the success of The King's Got Donkey's Ears and The Elves and the Shoemaker, Lawrence proves that going that extra mile makes all the difference.

We can only guess how many hours he puts into designing and creating his sets and puppets - and then be thankful that he does. Tiny doors open to reveal hidden animals, flaps are lowered to transform a forest into a beautiful cottage and puppets appear in all shapes and sizes - each lovingly crafted by hand. As the three tales unfold - Goldilocks, Three Little Pigs and Billy Goats Gruff - you never know what?s going to appear next, or from where. Lawrence himself is an immensely likeable performer who engages the entire audience, young and old.

It's really lovely going into our venue everyday and meeting all the audience after the shows and having a chance to ask them about the show. They all seem really thrilled with the badges that we are giving away. It's such a lovely place and not like anywhere else at The Fringe.

Finally, some excellent shows.....

2008-08-11T02:16:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been quite a struggle to see good shows but we had a really good run of shows yesterday. Met up with the Shohets first thing and went to see the wonderful Dr Bunhead do his stuff. His 'Crash Test Jelly Babies' show is really inventive and brings science well and truly alive in exactly the dangerous fashion that kids particularly like. Especially amazing was watching a grown man (albeit a mad scientist) plunge his hand into a bucket of liquid nitrogen.

Following on from this we went to see the new show from Plested & Brown - an hour of riotous entertainment and comedy. James has excelled himself with their set. Claire and Adam put so much energy into their shows and this is really appreciated by the audience. It has some lovely moments of ad libbing and playfulness with the audience. Catch them if you can!

It's stopped raining, and the festival comes alive.

2008-08-08T11:56:00.000-07:00

Walking down the Royal Mile today, you are immersed in the festival. The rain has stopped and everyone has come out to play. We managed to sell out again today which is brilliant. We had Total Theatre in today to assess the show but unfortunately the show sent her to sleep - so we won't be expecting a great review there.

The only show we went to see today was Circus Oz's 30th Birthday Bash. There's no denying that they are great acrobats but the show was really loud, and it wasn't anything that we hadn't seen before. The best bits were the robot "bad" dog who totally engaged the audience and really stole the show. The kangaroos were also inspired in terms of costume.

Reviews coming in......

2008-08-06T11:45:00.000-07:00

We were lucky starting a couple of days before the official start as it gave reviewers a chance to come and see the show before they got besieged. So this year, we have a List review out already and we've got 5 stars again! Will post the review when it comes online. We also got one from Primary Times:

This is story telling in the style that children love. The Theatre of Widdershins’ Andy Lawrence held an audience enthralled for the duration of the show with his wonderful props, gripping story- telling style, and puppets with so much character you feel you’ve always known them. In this year’s production, he tells the stories of The Three Little Pigs, Goldilocks and the Three Bears and the Three Billy Goats Gruff (yes, 3 is the theme!). This is an ideal venue for this show, as the detail in the puppets and props is easily visible, and children feel sufficiently involved to call out to the puppeteer in their excitement. There is humour to appeal to both children and adults, and the music adds dramatically to the atmosphere – in fact, several children shifted closer to parents, as the music announced the arrival of the wolf or the bears! I would have been happy to bring a wide age range of children to this show, and been confident they all would have loved it. As it was, I brought Andrew and Alex (aged 3 years), who watched wide-eyed, laughed out loud, shouted out answers, and jigged to the music. They talked about it all the way home, and I was even driven to buy the Widdershin’s CD of the show, which I know will be a bedtime and journey favourite. Book your tickets early – this one will be a sell-out.

It's an incredibly damp Edinburgh this year. It has done nothing but pour with rain today making walking about and going to shows a pretty soggy and uncomfortable business. Andy is out schmoozing as he calls it with some of the other artists from the Eastern Region (I think that he is just after free tickets actually). We've only managed one show today and that was by Gonzo Moose (You don't need to know that). There were a few funny moments in it but we didn't enjoy it as much as one of their previous shows 'I am a Viking.

Sell outs so far

2008-08-05T00:13:00.000-07:00

Two shows done and both sold out. Saturdays show went really well, although yesterday's show had such little children in the audience that it was hard to tell if they really enjoyed it. We have had two reviewers in so far so now just have to wait and see what they say about it. The reviews make all the difference as the run progresses.

As for shows that we've seen - well, again they have been a pretty mixed bag. We started off with a show for Zaki called 'The Sword of Maximum Damage' which is all set around a role playing game. At the time we thought that it was pretty bad, but after watching the next few shows, our feelings about this first show changed. The real low point so far for us was a show called 'James Campbell's Shut Up Stupid'. This was billed as a show for children and I have to say that it is the worst show I have ever seen!! It's so nasty that I just want to make sure that no one goes to see it. It is a horrible mix of cynacism and nastiness, with some very unsavoury elements added in. I really wish I had walked out but I was just desperate to see if there was going to be any saving grace to the show. There wasn't.

On a lighter note (quite literally) our overall favourite show as a family is 'PLUCK: A TITANIC TALE". This was a complete delight from beginning to end. The story was a gentle tale based around three musicians who get work upon the fated Titanic. The musicians are not only very accomplished, but can also sing beautifully and act really well. Enchanting show!

Also good, but not quite so enchanting, was Aeneas Faversham - Victorian Melodrama at it's best.

We're here....

2008-07-31T23:42:00.000-07:00

We had a good journey up to here, found our flat and unloaded everything. Zak is a bit disappointed with the place - nowhere near as plush as last year's but the dogs are with so what you do you expect! I like it, and the dogs are thrilled to be with us (you can tell). Immediately dashed out to buy a copy of The List (Edinburgh's version of Time Out). What a fantastic preview article - couldn't ask for better publicity. Take a look here as it's also on their website:

http://www.list.co.uk/article/10713-three-billy-goats-gruff/

Went to see a show last night - The Sword of Maximum Damage. It was all about a role playing board game - and it was about as interesting as plaing the game itself, and that means not very.

Packing for Edinburgh

2008-07-29T13:51:00.001-07:00

In an effort to get organised, we are packing for Edinburgh now. I have packed my most dowdy and useful clothes and Andy has only packed colourful shirts! Zak has packed the minimum of clothing items but ALL his Magic the Gathering cards. Erin has carefully planned exactly what she is taking and had packed it all correctly and neatly.

We now just have to fit in two dogs, their food; the show; the bits of the next show for Andy to work on while we are there; games; my Wii Fit (essential item of kit); and the four of us.

Will post again as soon as we get there.

Rapunzel & the Tower of Doom

2008-04-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

We're well into building the new show, although it's quite hard to get Andy to actually get down to it! He'd rather be performing. Here's a sneaky look at one of the scarier puppets that appears in the show!

Just to let you all know that we are off to Edinburgh again. We dithered for about 30 seconds and then all decided that we couldn't think of anything else we would rather do over the summer. This time we're performing at the Scottish Storytelling Centre - a beautiful venue!

As for now, we are busy getting ready to launch the cinema in Potton. Well, not quite a cinema but a very large screen and projector, fantastic food and all get together for a viewing of 'Kinky Boots'. For those of you that haven't seen this film, you should treat yourself. It's a really genuine feel good film. Anyway, that's on Friday so we'll see how many people turn up for that.

194 Arts Organisations lose their funding.....and the world is quiet!!!

2008-01-10T14:41:00.000-08:00

The complete horror of the news that some of our best loved theatres will be closing in April is coming to us in dribs and drabs..... and why doesn't it make front page news?? Is it that so few people care? Komedia, Watermans, Norwich Puppet Centre, Creative Arts East to name but a few. We don't even know all the organisations affected as the Arts Council haven't produced a definite list.

We know that it's because of the Olympics.... will there be anything left after the Olympics has been and gone?

Our work all starts again tomorrow. East Hatley are hosting us at their village hall. I think that this may be the way that we will survive this crisis - Village Halls. Thank goodness for all those fantastic people out there who can be bothered to make the effort to book us, advertise the show, and then provide refreshments and a warm, smiling face to greet the audience.

Saturday sees us performing in our own village hall in Potton. And Sunday, sees us at one of our favourite venues - Trestle Arts Base in St. Albans.

Happy New Year!!

2008-01-05T14:09:00.000-08:00

We're a week away from putting on our own production in our own village, and the tickets are really beginning to shift now. It's really nice to be able to do something so local for once, and I just hope that we can sell it out! Little Cornelius does like a big audience to perform in front of.

We've just had a fantastic day out becoming qualified 1st Aiders at St John's Ambulance in Cambridge. Thanks Harvey and Jean for your warm, and patient manner with us all. We learnt so much and the kids haven't stopped practising it since they've got home.

We're going to Edinburgh again....Yeah, yeah, yeah

2007-12-18T11:35:00.000-08:00

We were just beginning to feel a little worried but we have literally just heard that we have been selected to be a part of the East to Edinburgh crowd again. So our lovely little goats will get the chance to be stars!! They can't wait. They were worried that they were about to be retired but they now think they might be discovered.....bless them!

And while I'm here, I just want to say a very Happy Christmas to you all!!

Our first horrible review!!!

2007-08-21T15:39:00.000-07:00

Well, it had to happen eventually; a reviewer who doesn't like our show. But what a review! No one else gets their shows compared to another. We're not too sure what this reviewer was thinking by doing this as the review doesn't help us or the other company. There's nothing to learn or gain from the review - WHAT A COMPLETE WASTE OF TIME.

Still - do read it for yourselves.

The Elves & The Shoemaker ***

ANDREW EATON

QUAKER MEETING HOUSE (VENUE 40)

SILLY BILLY BUM BREATH STRIKES BACK ****

PLEASANCE COURTYARD (VENUE 33)

HERE, performed at around the same time of day, are two radically different approaches to entertaining children. At venue 40, Theatre of Widdershins offer an elaborate, lovingly designed wooden set, lots of puppets and a morality tale about greedy big business leaving a small-town shoemaker in poverty (an anti-corporate message close to this small, family-run theatre company's hearts, perhaps). At the Pleasance, meanwhile, two women jump about on a bare stage making jokes about wee.

Call me childish, but I'll take the wee jokes any day. The Elves and the Shoemaker has a lot of charm, and measuring children's feet as they come in is a lovely way to start things off, but it's an awkward show, with odd ideas about how to ingratiate itself to a young audience. The sight of a middle-aged man using the words "chill" and "wicked" is never far from embarrassing, and the prolonged, elf fashion show left the young audience I saw it with more baffled than enchanted.

I'm not sure if Theatre of Widdershins would approve of Silly Billy Bum Breath Strikes Back, but they could learn a little from Laura Black and Feri Tezcan's brilliant ability to tune precisely into what children find funny - wee, yes, but also a sense of the absurd and the surreal. Between them, Black and Tezcan play naughty children and comedy nannies, play tricks on the Queen, and throw custard pies. I've been told this year's show is more childish than last year's, which I missed. Fine. It has no message, and no educational value whatsoever, but it had parents and children hooting with laughter. That's enough, surely?

The Elves and the Shoemaker until 25 August. Today 2.30pm. Silly Billy Bum Breath until 27 August. Tomorrow 2pm

Anyway, the show went well today despite the review being a big dampener.

This evening we've been to see some fantastic live music provided by Tripod - a group from Oz. What a laugh.

Kids finally get on stage

2007-08-20T14:42:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday saw the kids acting debut. We went to see Modern Cautionary Tales for Children at the Gilded Balloon, and Murray Lachlan Young got them up to die on stage.

We've now managed to sell out our whole run. We had thought we had 40 seats left tomorrow but now, we have none. We just don't know how that all happened but it's great.

***** THE LIST!!!!!

2007-08-18T00:55:00.000-07:00

We got 5 stars!!! YIPPEE! We were so worried that we wouldn't be able to follow last year's success, but the reviewer liked us. It's a big shame but children's theatre just doesn't attract reviewers, and when it does, it's because it's in a venue where they are reviewing adult theatre or comedy. Thank goodness for The List, and Kelly Apter who does believe that children's theatre is important.

http://www.list.co.uk/article/4136-the-elves-and-the-shoemaker/

We went straight out to celebrate.....

Zak's a bit miffed that he can' get in to see a show all about role playing and fantasy but because it's in a pub, you have to be over 18 to get in!!! So he's found a cunning disguise to help him look older!

But I'm not sure if Erin will get away with it..........

Orkestra Del Sol ROCK!!!!

2007-08-14T15:14:00.000-07:00

We've just come back from a brilliant gig at The Spielgel Garden - ORKESTRA DEL SOL. They were brilliant; just like being at a party. Apart from Erin being stood on a lot, the kids really enjoyed it as well, and the venue's really nice. Zak bought the CD so hopefully he'll be dancing in his bedroom.

We're still sold out.... and are so until next Monday! We are all waiting nervously for Thursday when our review will come out in THe List, but the show is going down really well. In fact, it's improved massively since being performed everyday.

Sold out so far....

2007-08-10T14:30:00.000-07:00

We can't believe it....but our shows have all been sold out so far, and we've had to turn people away!! So different from last year. We are sadly aware that this is probably due to the well known title which means we are doomed to do well-known stories for ever more. Still, if we have to do that, then we will definitely be giving them the Widdershins treatment!!

Had a lovely review from the Primary times, but no one else so far. I don't know how other companies get all these reviewers in so early. Andy will definitely have to sack his PR person. Oh no, hang on a minute, that's me! What am I saying?
http://www.primarytimes.net/reviews_theatre.php
Click on the link if you want to read the review.

Sorry no pics today as we are home for the weekend and won't be back in Edinburgh until Sunday.

So many shows

2007-08-05T13:28:00.001-07:00

We're now feeling like Fringe professionals. We can navigate our way to most venues, sneaking in and out of the crowds of tourists, to arrive at our venue just in time. Haven't missed any of our shows yets!!

Today, was 'BANG ON' which was really enjoyable but not a patch on Stomp. Yesterday we watched 'The Terrible Infants' which was completely brilliant. Just the right mix of live music, professional performers and great drama. Watch out for them...

It's now pouring with rain here, which is actually really nice as it makes the streets a bit quieter. Our flat is on the top floor so we've got the sound of the rain beating on our skylights -lovely.

Tomorrow is our first show and we're really hoping that it will be a sell out. The ticket sales have gone even better than we would have imagined possible. Let you know tomorrow how it went.

First Shows

2007-08-01T15:39:00.000-07:00

The Fringe is now underway, although not officially yet. We've been to two shows so far and Steve and Andy are out at some dodgy puppetry this evening.

First show - Time Gairden - enjoyable little romp following the actors around. Check out the Kelpie!

Second show - The boy and the dog who walked to the moon - brilliant acting but not a meaty enough story for me.

Tomorrow, it's at least five shows if not more. Hope my Edinburgh legs kick in soon, because the Bedfordshire ones are tired out!!!

Ticket sales have gone a bit mad today, for our show. We've been selling about 5 tickets a day and today 40 tickets have gone. It must all be hotting up... looking forward to doing our first show on Monday.

Lovely Edinburgh

2007-07-29T16:37:00.000-07:00

What a lovely place Edinburgh is. So compact, so beautiful and it's got a whopper of a hill right in the middle of it! Amazing.

Our journey was very easy. Steve (my Bruv) and Martin both went on the train, and Andy, me and the kids went up in the van. Nice and quiet on the roads and we had a really quick, smooth journey. The flat is lovely and it's only draw back is that it is five flights of stairs up, but what a view.

Been out for a curry and have just staggered back up all those stairs. Off to bed now as I'm completely shattered.

We're here.

2007-07-29T16:36:00.000-07:00

The Van is Packed......but there's no room for us!

2007-07-28T14:38:00.000-07:00

Having spent the whole day unloading and loading the van, sorting, washing, packing and cleaning, we are now wiped out. Why is it so hard to go away for a month??? I'm still here at 11 at night printing posters and trying to get Harry Potter onto my iPod. Have just got back from delivering our dogs to their holiday home - back with Mummy and Sissie!

Will post tomorrow some lovely piccies of our flat (cross your fingers that it's lovely!)

MangleMarsh Fayre '07

2007-07-20T14:27:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we held the first ever Manglemarsh Fayre in our garden, and our neighbours garden. It was a beautiful day and over 100 people came and took part in the festivities. We had a puppet show - Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tails; a jazz duet; a fantastic melodeon player; games and workshops - wand making, mosaics, puppet making and windmills. Thanks to everyone who helped make the day such a fabulous success. We have raised enough money to go ahead and book some professional theatre to come to Potton, and to start our very own Film Society.

Sad State of Small Arts Centre

2007-07-03T16:27:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend we heard that another four small arts centres were under threat of closure. Amongst this number is a favourite venue of ours - Tower Arts. We love this venue - it's size and intimacy and the lovely audiences it always seems to get. I worry that the general public have no idea what is happening to culture in the name of the Olympics. Apparently, we have been told that we should be happy as we'll have the opening ceremony to celebrate culture.

25 days to go.........

2007-07-03T01:56:00.000-07:00

Well, everything is hotting up now. It's only 25 days until we leave for Edinburgh and inbetween now and then we are holding a festival in our garden!!! Are we mad??? Andy is busy digging toilets (it's a glamourous life) and I'm trying to sell tickets, cut the grass (inbetween all the rain) and get all the preparations for Edinburgh finished.

This year, we're giving away badges to everyone who comes to see the show. Cute designs. Take a look!

Anyway, if there is anyone out there who hasn't heard about the MangleMarsh Festival then it's happening here in our gardens, and Andy's performing 'Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tails' and then there will be a host of live music. Great food all day.... Just get in touch if you're interested in coming. It's on the 14th July, by the way.

Back home again..

2007-06-23T10:17:00.000-07:00

After an exhausting 9 hour journey through the storms, we have returned. We visited 7 schools in the last 4 days and were really pleased to meet so many people. Especially impressed with George Herriot School, Royal Mile Primary and St George's School for Girls. Thanks for your lovely hopsitality and enthusiasm, and hope to see lots of you during August.

Stayed in a nice Guest House that actually allowed the dogs.

For anyone out there who doesn't know Edinburgh very well - Henderson's is a fantastic Vegetarian restaurant (albeit with a confusing pricing system). We had a fantastic meal there and listened to live music.

Took the dogs onto Athur's Seat - which is also a must!

Edinburgh Again.....

2007-06-16T18:14:00.000-07:00

Today has been a mammoth attack on my admin. I need some piece of mind to know that I haven't left something urgent in my intray whilst we drive to Edinburgh for the week. The kids have got friends staying for the weekend, so therefore I have hardly seen them... and it means that I have some time to tackle the dreadful paper piles on my desk. It's now 2.15am and I feel like I have actually got somewhere. All contracts done, and all bills paid, and still my in tray is 4 inches thick.

We are in full Edinburgh mode now though.... deadlines for advertising, and promoting the show. We are taking 'The Elves & The Shoemaker' to the Quaker Meeting House this year and it's so exciting to get the ticket sales figures day by day. The show is selling much better than last year.

I am more determined than ever to keep this blog going. I've even bought the cutest little USB modem for my MAC - so nothing should stop me!!

Back to Bloggin'

2007-04-06T06:11:00.000-07:00

Sorry I disappeared for so long. The new show was a nightmare to get sorted but now we are back in circulation and we're very pleased with the show. Check out our website for places that you can catch it - www.widdershins.co.uk.

News is that we are off to Edinburgh again this year. We loved it so much that we're delighted to have been chosen to go again. I'll try and write a lot more and keep everyone up to date. Well, I never was as good as my friend Leesie as doing the diary thing - but I promise to try.

2006-11-09T10:00:00.000-08:00

Sorry we haven't been very conversant recently but I've been bogged down under a huge pile of admin and homeschooling the kids!! I feel like I'm right back at school and it's certainly doing my brain the world of good. Andy has disappeared into his workshop and hasn't been seen.... I believe that the elves are being created as I type this. Green hands have been spotted through the window, and the sight of tiny little boots.

We're off to the Isle of Wight in just over a week to help adults learn to make puppets and spread the word far and wide.

Ireland here we come

2006-09-01T09:53:00.000-07:00

The van is repacked and this time has all our bikes on the back. We're off to Skibbereen for a week and I hope that it's going to be relaxing. I'm not convinced as we really have to sort out the new show as I've taken so many bookings for it already. We've never been to this part of Ireland and so we're pretty excited. Andy's got a new bike so I don't suppose we'll be seeing much of him - probably just his rear in the distance!!! Will post up a message once we've arrived.

The Wonderful World of Widdershins

Happy New Year!

The Elves & The Shoemaker - sell out tour!

Home again... and admin again!

Fringe Review - 4 stars

Fringe Review

Edinburgh Fringe 2011

The King's Got Donkey's Ears

Genre: Storytelling

Venue: Scottish Storytelling Centre

Low Down

Review

Website :Theatre of Widdershins

Broadway baby review - 4 stars (Ian Billings)

Lend me your (Donkey) ears

Wet Wednesday in Edinburgh

Settling in....

It's raining in Edinburgh...and my shoes are leaking

First Show done....

First Performance at the Fringe today!

Hello Edinburgh

REVIEW: Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows Part II (12)

Garden Farm Festival

REVIEW: Brides Maids (15)

REVIEW: Bad Teacher (15)

Downsview Guest House, Ashford

Billy Goats Gruff celebrate 400th show!

Edinburgh Fringe Programme is out!

Calm before the Storm

Something Exciting's happening in Bedford

Those Billy Goats are now romping all over England!

Happy New Year

Bedford School Theatre - what a gem!

Probably the last review we'll get from this Edinburgh

Couple of quiet days....

The Stage

Arabian Nights

Only 3 stars from The Big Issue!

Arabian Nights

Sights, sounds and scents of exotic East @ The Storytelling Centre, Edinburgh

Fest Mag's review

Arabian Nights

Show info

Arabian Nights

Just 4 stars from The List this year....

Public reviews

Ed Fringe 2010: Arabian Nights – Scottish Storytelling Centre

Writer: Theatre of Widdershins

Director: Theatre of Widdershins

Reviewer: Deborah Klayman

The Public Reviews Rating:

Runs until 30th Au

First review - and it's 5 stars!

Fringe Review

Edinburgh Fringe 2010

Arabian Nights

Genre: Children's Theatre

Venue: Scottish Story Telling Centre

Low Down

Review

Website : http://www.theatre-of-widdershins.co.uk/

Lovely new pics

Oh, the sound of the pipes.

Ovid's Metamorhposes

First shows at the Fringe

Back in Edinburgh again....

Relaxing week in Hunstanton???

Help.... more shows please!

Arabian Nights | Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2010

New Arabian Nights CD available

Applause Rural Touring

Easter Tour

Harrogate here we come...

GCSE Drama sadness

Wonderful Wiltshire

Going Back to Edinburgh - this time UNFUNDED!!

Audiences much smaller

The Big Issue

Fringe Review - sounds like they like the show!

The Scotsman - 4 stars

Website :
Theatre of Widdershins

Website :
http://www.theatre-of-widdershins.co.uk/