Blog

Last month our Monday and Wednesday Drama groups presented their incredible production of ‘Folktales Reincarnated’ – an immersive experience blending live theatre and film. The event was three years in the making and proved to be a smash hit!

Drawing on 1970s folk horror, African folklore, early gothic cinema, and physical theatre, the production shared a world where stories are passed on, transformed, and reborn.

We caught up with some of the creative team and actors to find out more…

Steve Givnan, director and lead facilitator described the process of creating the show:

This is the first production the Monday and Wednesday drama groups have shared for some time. At Under the Stars, the process of devising and rehearsal is as important as the final performance. Along the way, we have seen people grow in confidence, discover new skills and take creative risks together.

We began by asking both groups what stories and themes they were drawn to. There was a strong interest in fairy tales and folk stories, alongside a fascination with darker, more unsettling material. We explored how these traditions overlap - experimenting with genre, movement, atmosphere and forms of storytelling that were new to us.

Folktales Reincarnated reflects our shared belief that stories do not stay fixed in the past. They are reborn through new perspectives, shaped by the people who tell them. While not directly about disability, these works are informed by the lived experience, creativity and imagination of disabled and neurodivergent artists, quietly woven into the fabric of the storytelling.

It has been a joy to make this work together and hope that audiences were left carrying something new - a thought, an image, or a piece of wisdom - to share with others.

We also had the opportunity to speak with some of the cast, all of whom loved the experience of devising and performing in the production.

Sheridan shared how much she loved stepping into her character, describing the role as making her feel confident and excited. She especially enjoyed wearing her light up costume, which helped bring the character to life. She went on to say 'It was nice doing the dancing. Before it I felt quite nervous and shy but once we started I felt, happy and confident. I would like to do it again. It made me feel amazing' On stage, Sheridan captivated audiences with her striking physicality and vivid characterisation, fully immersed in her performance.

Jack talked about how great the whole process has been 'It all came together by thinking about folktales over a two year period. It's a load of stories which we connected together. I loved how everyone had great imagination and everyone had so much inspiration. I had loads of ideas.' Jack particularly liked the fact that they moved around and were close to the audience. He described the show as 'mystical, exciting and unique'

Ken took on his role as Shikondo with remarkable intensity, delivering a powerful performance that left a lasting impression. Ken really enjoyed playing a baddie although he mentioned that his costume was very warm! He spoke enthusiastically about his love of acting and his experience in the production, encouraging others to get involved with Under the Stars. In his own words Ken said 'I felt brilliant after because I like acting and performing.'

Nick described how much he enjoyed and performing in Folktales Reincarnated. He described how his favourite moment was playing the guitar. He also mentioned how much he liked his costumes. All in all, Nick felt that 'it was a great performance and all the performers did a brilliant job'

Leanna described how much she enjoyed playing the Mushroom Goddess and particularly liked her costume, make up and hair. She felt excited when performing and being part of something that everyone enjoyed.

Huge thanks to our amazing production team - Debby for her outstanding work on costumes, sets, and props; David for the stunning lighting design; Rachel for her fantastic input both on and off stage and Anne, our drama project manager, for overseeing the project and ensuring everything ran smoothly. Extra thanks also go to our volunteers, both on and off stage.

And finally, to our audiences - thank you. Your support and feedback have been phenomenal, with 100% of attendees saying they would recommend the show. Here's to the next one!