The Camden Fringe is almost upon us, providing one of the best times in the capital to get into Fringe theatre, and the stories it can tell. To get prepared for the festival, Read About Stuff is running a ‘Five From The Fringe’ interview series, where creative teams answer five questions about their upcoming Festival shows.
In this interview, I chat to Melian Middelkoop and Paulina Cuadra about their new show Take Care.
Can you tell me a little about your show and what audiences can expect?
Our show ‘Take Care’ is about two friends clinging to one another as they’re tested in their romantic endeavours. Izzy can’t seem to get a boyfriend, and Jo has a boyfriend who excites her as much as watching grass grow. The play is like an unhinged girls night that goes in an unexpected direction.
What drew you to this specific story, and why does it belong at the Camden Fringe?
Melian: There’s a lot of focus on romantic love in media, this is a love story of platonic love. I found personally that in this stage of my life my friendships were the most important and loving relationships. I noticed how funny all of my friends were and wanted to represent these funny women on stage.
What has been the biggest challenge in bringing this production to life?
It’s our first time producing our own show, while we’re prepared and experienced in the artistic side of things, everything that comes with producing, such as marketing, budgeting and organising has been a baptism by fire.
How does the design of your show (set, sound, or lighting) impact the presentation of your story?
Paulina: Our design choices were guided by the goal of making our characters feel as authentic and relatable as possible. We put a great deal of thought into their personalities, the way they live, and how they dress, ensuring that every detail reflects who they are. We intentionally kept the set and overall design simple so that the focus remains on the reality of being in your twenties in London today.
If you could sum up the show in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?
Fergalicious
(Definition: Make them boys go loco)
Take Care runs at Etcetera Theatre 5 – 7 August and Hen & Chickens Theatre 9 – 10 August. Tickets are available here: https://camdenfringe.com/events/take-care/
