Trigger warning: miscarriage

I try to make it to at least one or two children’s shows each Fringe. Children’s theatre is usually how most of us are introduced to theatre, either that or a family pantomime trip around Christmas. It can be such a vital part of a child’s early life, so I like to review some, making sure families aren’t alienated from sharing the love of Fringe!

I went along to see a show called “Seasons”, playing at Paradise Green, and as I arrived in the theatre, I was greeted by a beautiful, colourful cardboard set... and a completely empty audience.

I was the only person who bought tickets to their show and on a 2FOR1 day and all! This is not the first time this has happened to a Fringe show, lots even have days where no one shows up. Other times I have been the only audience member, I was asked by a director or producer if wanted to see the show if I’d rather a refund, but Cardboard Box Theatre saw it was only me and just turned down the house lights to start the show. Absolute professionals!

This was one of the sweetest little shows I’ve seen in a while. It was all about animals in a wee park with their friend, the park ranger, and his wee cat. A magpie has just turned eight, and they are celebrating his birthday. He is given the news that he is soon to be a big brother, and he thinks it is the greatest birthday present he has ever received. Simply ecstatic, he wants to find the shiniest and best present for what he has decided will be a baby sister. He goes off on an adventure with his squirrel pal to the city under the watchful eye of the park ranger’s cat to find that shiny present!

[SPOILER ALERT]

However, at home, something terrible has happened. Time has passed and the egg hasn’t hatched. Seasons finds a way to explain the tragedy that is miscarriage in a way that children can understand and adults find comfort in. I cried and I know you would cry too if you had joined me in the theatre that day

In the UK, it is estimated that 10-20% of pregnancies end in an early miscarriage. I remember even in Ireland as a child that this topic would come up, but it was always hushed away like a shameful secret. I wish I had a show like this when I was a child to help me understand the world around me, rather than thinking I couldn’t talk about it. I feel, for adults, this show will give you recognition and a sense of knowing, if this has affected you, you are not alone, and if not, it might give you the building blocks to show how you could support someone.

Please, please, please don’t let this show have empty audiences. It only runs until the 15th so get your tickets whilst you can!

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