Five questions for kids' theatre company Purves Puppets
The company behind Pips and Panda tell us about their 26 years on the Fringe
1. This is your 26th year on the Fringe – what keeps you coming back?
‘There’s a special holiday atmosphere unique to Edinburgh, and families are already excited when they arrive. Even the kids have often seen a lot of theatre. They expect – and they get – the best.’
2. What do you think are the key ingredients for a great kids show?
‘A really original idea, but one where everybody says “Of course! Why didn’t I think of that?”. Plus you need action-packed adventure, fun and music that gets everyone going. The plot should always be on the move.
3. What has been your best experience at the Edinburgh Fringe to date?
‘When we looked into the audience to discover Lenny Henry laughing his head off at our show, and meeting him afterwards.’
4. Why should people come and see your two Fringe shows, Pips and Panda Meet the Three Bears and Nessie the Loch Ness Monster?
‘Because our style is really unique. Not only puppets but computer animation are combined in our spectacular shows. Lots of puppeteers sit on stage and illustrate their stories with puppets, but we perform complete plays and you don’t see a single human until the play finishes. Both stories are especially written for their age group: 1-6 and 5-100!’
5. What three words sum up Purves Puppets?
Giant-sized, Scottish and original.
Pips and Panda Meet the Three Bears and Nessie the Loch Ness Monster, Fairmilehead Parish Church Hall, 01899 220631, until 18 August (not 12), times vary, £8.