BGS pupils, in the form of Grapple Theatre Company, took two shows to the 2018 Edinburgh Fringe, Shouty Arthur and Eurydice. For everyone involved it was an unforgettable experience. The reflections of two of those who went, Alice and Emily, are below. You can see photos from their trip on Instagram – search @BGSBristol.
Our trip to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival over the summer was a one of a kind experience that we couldn’t ever relive in quite the same way again. We can speak on behalf of the entirety of our two casts when we say there was never a dull moment through our week of performing our own shows, watching fantastic performances from others, and gulping in the lively atmosphere of 'The Mile'.
In preparation for the trip, we spent a number of hours rehearsing in between external exams and school days, along with a few full days amidst our busy summers. All these hours helped us to bond as members of Grapple Theatre Company to produce the best work we could when we travelled to Scotland to perform in two venues with our two shows.
Shouty Arthur based on the much-loved children's book by Angie Morgan and adapted for the stage by Chris Walker was awarded the “Best Family Show” and “Best Show for Younger Children” by the Edinburgh Fringe Review. Families enjoyed this energetic performance including engagement with the children from our cast.
Eurydice, written by Sarah Ruhl (a modern adaptation of the Greek Myth) was a great hit, exploring the tragedies of love and loss narrated by a ‘chorus of stones’. Our show invited a variety of ages and backgrounds, receiving outstanding feedback and response after every show.
We saw unforgettable performances and gained skill and knowledge that will stay with us as actors forever. We learnt the effort and belief one must have to create a beautiful piece of theatre and it will be an experience for us all to treasure.
Alice and Emily