Could you first introduce yourself to the readers?
Hello! I'm Alison Child. I set up Behind The Lines in 2014 with my partner Rosie. We make theatre that relates our own lives to stories we find in the archives.
Could you describe your act for us?
Our new show this year is 'Fall of Duty'. It's about the conflict between a gamer and his history-obsessed mum. It's about anger and love and how to manage those emotions in a volatile world.
Why did you want to perform at Brighton Fringe?
We live here and we had a blast at the Fringe the past two years.
Why did you decide to apply for WINDOW?
The WINDOW application process helps me think deeply and usefully about what we're doing and why.
How did you react to being told you'd been selected to be showcased?
We were hugely chuffed to get selected for the third year running!
How has it helped you so far?
It increases interest in the show and our work in general.
What is the best part of your job?
Having control over what I do and who I do it with.
Conversely, what has been the most challenging?
Making sure my enthusiasm and passion are shared with my collaborators and audiences.
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
I put on one item of costume first thing in the morning and wear it right through to the end of the performance.
What is the process you go through when looking to create a new show? Are you very disciplined or do you need to be strict with yourself?
It happens to me. The subject finds me and inhabits me. I research like crazy, then I write like crazy, then rehearse like crazy. I look back and I can't say I had any choice in the matter.
What do you think has been the most dramatic change to the industry in the last five years?
Cross gender casting is now in the mainstream opening up far more roles for women at long last.
If you could have any other job in the world, what would it be?
Historical biographer.
Imagine you possess the power to send one message back in time to 16-year-old you. What do you say?
Think of yourself as you want other people to think of you.
What advice would you give to young people who want to enter the industry?
Chose a personal project, believe in it, nurture it, rave about it and work other jobs to support it until your passion convinces the world and this gives you a foothold in the industry. Then keep doing the same. People like people with a project they are passionate about. Don't wait for someone else to put you in their project.
Where can people find you on the internet, and find out more about your show?
Here https://www.behindthelines.info/fall-of-duty/
Or by booking here: https://www.brightonfringe.org/box-office/shows/view/fall-duty
Or here: @AllTheNiceG
0 Comments