See Me Change

Why the Changeling? Doesn't it conjure up images of an old play
written by a DWM and esoteric philosophy?

The Changeling is a short story taken from Tokyo Cancelled by Rana Dasgupta. Throughout the devising process we focused solely on the original source for its transition onto stage. Some festival-goers may associate the title to other references with popular culture; however, we aim to appeal to all audiences with a story of companionship.

The mix of puppetry and music suggests an integrated, adventurous
theatre but how do the two relate within the creative process? Does
one or another form lead the work?

Our work revolves around ensemble devising; the process began with members from all disciplines working together. Each aspect of the play whether it be puppetry, music, performance or film was represented in the initial stages of the creative development. Through this, the importance of telling the story fuelled our cross discipline experiments.

How does 2020 look within the play? Is it a dystopia or a utopia? Is it recognisable to us in 2010, or has there been major changes within society?

The setting of 2020 is recognisable to a contemporary audience, yet the world has shifted with surreal elements seeping into the society, particularly the rising population of changelings. A dystopia is created through the outbreak of smallpox; the fear of disease and death leads to wide spread destruction, gangs set out to sterilise society killing more than the disease itself.

The individualism of city life is apparent as people shut themselves in their homes to avoid human contact - only the brave ones venture onto the streets.

Beyond the futurology, the play grapples with the nature of friendship. Is this something that the novel prioritises, or has the transition to stage emphasised this theme?

We have focused on the importance of companionship, which is a key theme in the novel. The bond formed between two strangers explores loss, loneliness and the importance of human connection before death. The journey of Bernard and Fred is used to explore wider themes relating to the world outside their run-down hotel room.

What traditions of theatre have influenced this piece?

Our creative process has been influenced by theatre companies and practitioners who explore different methods of storytelling. In particular, our influences range from Jacques Lecoq, Philippe Gaulier, Peader Kirk and Nick Philippou along with companies such as Blind Summit Theatre, Improbable, Frantic Assembly and Kneehigh.