list.co.uk/festival Masked Theatre | FESTIVAL THEATRE
Finding Joy
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BEHIND THE MASK Eddie Harrison talks to the people behind two of 2016’s most exciting Fringe shows, both using masked performers to explore diffi cult subjects in innovative ways
T he creative use of masks in theatre ranges from the abstract style of Japanese Noh theatre to the introverted, tortured genius of Frank Sidebottom. Building on such versatility, this year’s Fringe features two English theatre companies attempting to explore the tricky subjects of dementia and homelessness through the original use of masks.
Hailing from Worcestershire, Vamos Theatre is bringing Finding Joy to Edinburgh, which charts the relationship between Joy, a woman in her 80s, and Danny, her grandson. When Joy i nds herself struggling with the impact of increasing dementia, Danny steps up to the challenge of being Joy’s domestic carer, creating a transformative experience for both of them.
Anyone who has experienced caring for a loved one knows the effects of dementia are no laughing matter, but Vamos Theatre founder Rachael Savage saw an opportunity to use light and shade to create a fuller, deeper picture of how a caring relationship can develop. ‘Five years ago, the Hereford Courtyard approached Vamos Theatre to collaborate on a production about dementia. After months and months of research, I wondered if I’d made a huge mistake. All the stories, novels, i lms, news articles, documentaries were negative, depressing and all ended in death,’ says Savage. ‘With my piece of theatre I wanted to celebrate a life, not dwelling on the losing of a person, but the journey to keep trying to i nd the person, and i nd joy and happiness with that person.’
After months of research, Finding Joy was created as a wordless piece using full masks and music to depict Joy and Danny’s interactions, aiming to capture ordinary, everyday interactions and make them into something extraordinary.
4–11 Aug 2016 THE LIST FESTIVAL 87