‘Horrible Histories on Steroids’ ★★★★★
The Reviews Hub
Award-winning theatre company, Rubbish Shakespeare Company are joining forces with Silly History Boys to proudly present the first UK Tour of The Story Forge: Make Your Own Myth – a hilarious hour of high-octane adventure, told through their distinctive fusion of clowning, silly storytelling, physical comedy and live music.
The Story Forge: Make Your Own Myth is an immersive, all-ages family show, where two larger-than-life history professors and a live musician make new myths from children’s ideas. Audiences will be led through a triptych of tales: the origin of the place they live; the creation myth of a donated item; and a hero’s journey – where an audience member will prove themselves a legend.
Produced to chime with Rubbish Shakespeare Company’s mission of ‘Theatre for All’, this ‘choose your own adventure tale’ was developed in response to a lack of new stories for children. Using a flexible scripted framework, each show will reflect the local community, as stories are drawn from their imaginations and experiences. While the storyline is inspired by the ancient classics – giving audiences a recognisable starting point – each show allows children to make original stories, whilst also providing a first time performance experience for many young people.
“It’s been a blast! Sharing the stage with these amazing children is incredible, you really see them light up and come alive. As a performer, this has been one of the most fun and rewarding shows I’ve ever been a part of. Honestly, the kids steal the show every time, and we wouldn’t have it any other way! They’re the real stars, not us. You really see how naturally storytelling comes to kids.
We created The Story Forge largely because children just aren’t being exposed to enough new stories. That New National Literacy Trust study really hit home – only 35% of 8–18-year-olds actually read for pleasure? That’s crazy! We think a big reason is the lack of fresh, original stories out there for them. So we’re doing our bit to change that by creating three brand new stories every show!” Lee Hithersay – Artistic Director of Rubbish Shakespeare Co.
“When I was at school, drama was the only part of my time I enjoyed and luckily I have been able to make a career out of it. This tour is an amalgamation of a number of strands. When I am not spending my time with the Rubbish Shakespeare Company, I spend time in re-enactments at stately homes and historic places. Couple that with the historical knowledge of the Silly History Boys and the tour logistic skills of the Rubbish Shakespeare Company and here we are!“
“The great part about using mythology, is that the children become the heroes of the story. I even remember one occasion when a lad came up with noise- suppressing headphones on. I knew from that he must be somewhere on the autistic spectrum, but something else was also definitely true. He really joined in and enjoyed himself. So much so, his mother watching on had tears of joy running down her cheeks. In general it’s suitable for any children between five and early teens. There’s no telling what their imagination will come up with aided by our props!”
So… who is the God of dog poo bags? What ancient crime was Marmite the punishment for… and why was it inflicted upon us? Will it be Greek? Viking? Ancient Babylonian? They haven’t a clue! This silly iliad – or silliad, if you will – is completely unique every single time it’s performed, as three new myths are forged from the unhinged minds of the audience – and a boatload of cardboard props!
This is the show that puts the Marvel in Marvellous, but only if that’s the universe or area of world mythology the audience suggest. To be in that audience when the show reaches a theatre near you please check out their website.
