Hijinx Professional & Inclusive Theatre Company Presents Metamorphosis By Franz Kafka [AD]

 

Many thanks to Hijinx Theatre Company for the complimentary virtual invite. [AD - Gifted].

To say the pandemic has taken it's toll on most industry sectors would be true, however the theatre industry is one of the most which has been hit the hardest. That is why it is important to support local theatres, especially even more so now... you can make a donation to Hijinx by clicking here. 

I think it would be true to say that everyone has missed something due to lockdown measures, however escaping to a new world whilst watching someone 'tread the boards' has been one of the biggest challenges for me. However, this is especially a struggle for those who work in the entertainment industry, but creative people have creative solutions. Hijinx overcome barriers everyday to combat inclusion and are a prime example of being innovative to keep their productions running.

I recently 'attended' a Hijinx virtual performance of Metamorphosis; an adaptation of the novella by Franz Kafka. Directed by Ben Pettitt-Wade the show forms part of their retinue for the Summerhall’s online programme for 2021 Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The show features actress Ffion Gwyther, who has recently become a YouTube sensation with her lockdown videos and catchphrase 'cwtch in and have a drink'. As well as music specifically created by award winning BAFTA Cymru Composer Tic Ashfield.

As soon as the virtual invite dropped onto my virtual doormat I was excited to take in the performance, despite knowing nothing about the show. It was a chance to take part in something in the 'real world', where real people would be having real interactions. As a disabled person it can be isolating, especially when you work from home and this was even more so due to the pandemic, so I welcomed the chance to quench my thirst for thespianism. I can confirm writing this now, a few weeks after the performance, the show did not disappoint!

Stay at home, Virtual Theatre

So, how did it play out? The show was delivered into homes, bedrooms, offices and living rooms...basically anywhere you can think of where you can access your computer / smart device. The beauty of using this medium to broadcast the show, means that all actors and audience are kept safe, as there was no need for social distancing. Also that literally anyone could take in the show from their own home, in pyjamas if they wanted! This last fact makes the show literally accessible to everyone, there was no need to work out how to get to the theatre and if there would be storage for my mobility scooter! Also it is a winner for the chronically ill community, as it conserves energy levels by not having to leave your home, heck you don't even have to leave your couch!

Initially invites were allocated via email, accompanied by a Zoom link, which was activated on the day of the performance. Beforehand, information was also sent out about the cast / production members, as well as instructions on how to access the audio description and closed caption options during the performance. Audience members were advised to make themselves comfortable and have a drink to hand, to ensure maximum viewing comfort. As the show began staff were proactive in making sure that everyone was able to access the performance, including answering questions via the online chat and talking through how the show play out for those with visual impairments. 

Hijinx really did go above and beyond in making this event accessible to everyone, including using the 'raise your hand' function if you needed extra support throughout. There was something so nice about being nestled in a comfy blanket, dog in lap and munchies on a side table, that I think made the unique experience of enjoying this production in this way, extra special. 

Laptop on 👍

Comfy     👍

Munchies 👍 

Showtime...

Then, after a timer counts down 10 seconds to showtime the 'curtain is lifted' to introduce us to Ben the friendly Barman, who talks us through the housekeeping rules. Ben also lets us know that we will get a chance to interact with the show by taking part in online polls which influence the actions of the actors. 'Metamorphosis follows the story of Gregor Samsa who wakes up one morning from uneasy dreams to find he had turned into a monstrous verminous bug. He is incapacitated, confined to the house, unable to work and unable to hold his family close. This metadrama sees the cast of 12, all of whom have awoken to a different world, forced to reinterpret their profession, their identity, their very worth to the world'. 

The screen then cuts to the 'Auditions' where we meet the Director who is dressed in a pair of skimpy tiger pants, whilst carrying out various auditions for the play. Firstly we meet Lindsay who appears in total blackness and then flicks on a ring light which is around her neck. Humour is a theme which is prevalent throughout the play, with Richard appearing next with a Welsh flag as a backdrop, and talking in a high pitched voice. Then comes Lucy who is too close to the camera and talks in a Russian accent and next Doug who is joining from a toilet. Finally we meet a frog, well someone wearing a rubber frog mask. 

It is the combination of the Barman's story telling methods, the actors skills, the unique medium of the performance and the efforts of the creative team that make this production feel so interactive. Witnessing the story unfolding, the immersive and interactive nature of the experience and being in my own familiar setting made the performance an indubitable success. 

Having gone into this experience with an open mind, I was completely blown away by the excellent calibre of the show. As a production company Hijinx illustrates how to make the arts more accessible by enlisting the services of disabled actors and making their shows accessible to everyone. There is an important lesson to be learnt here by larger organisations, who are both missing out on an untapped talent pool of actors and paying customers by sticking to a traditional model of performance. Whether you are chronically ill / disabled or would just like to view an outstanding performance from the comfort of your own home, you can find out more about upcoming shows from Hijinx here. 

To Conclude...

One positive note of the pandemic is that it has made so many things more accessible to those who are chronically ill, and has put us on equal footing to everyone else in society. The barriers have been removed, not only to attending social events but also employment opportunities. Having the play set in your own home means there are no accessibility issues to withstand, that would normally prohibit someone who needs mobility aids from attending. All patrons attended via a virtual medium, which meant that no two people were compared or singled out for needing alternative support and that in itself speaks volumes around equality. 

Being that the show is 90 minutes long I would recommend making sure you have a supply of comfy cushions, a blanket and general items for self preservation; such as sweets and a drink. Also, I would take a toilet break beforehand as there is no intermission throughout the show, and if like me you may need to plan ahead. Also, remember to regularly stretch throughout and move positions so your body does not become stiff. I vaguely remember not being able to sleep for hours that night, due to being so engrossed in the show that I forgot to move around, and my body was painful for a fair few hours after. 

Finally, due to the dramatic effects of this show it is necessary to take into mind the quick scene changes and bright lighting effects, which can trigger illness effects if you struggle with loud noises and flashing lights. It is worth bearing this in mind if you have become deconditioned from the special effects having not visited the theatre in a long time. 

To conclude this production was skilfully adapted, thoughtfully delivered and accessible to all - which is no easy feat given the pandemic! Hijinx you pulled it off and a lot of lessons could be learnt from you! So whether you use mobility aids or not, if you are searching for your next immersive theatre experience then this show is for you!

Thanks for reading, and many thanks to Hijinx Theatre Company for the invite. You can find out more about Hijinx Theatre Company here, connect with me here and view other accessibility reviews here.