Here at Perth Arts Live, we know festival season in Perth/Boorloo (and beyond!) is hectic. There’s a lot to do, see, and plan when arts festivals overlap in such spectacular ways. To help readers make informed decisions about where to spend every moment of their free time during Fringemas just like us, we’re asking FRINGE WORLD artists to ‘take five’ from their busy schedules to answer five questions about their shows. No rest for the weary, eh?
Lead creative Roe Rowe takes five with PAL to talk about her deeply personal show created with her husband and composer Chris : What to Expect When You’re No Longer Expecting, presented by State of Play at the State Theatre Centre from 1 – 2 Jan. About Expecting:
“A show written from the heart including original music as two grieving parents share their story of love, loss and learning to live again. The Rowes share their experiences of trying for a baby, the joy of pregnancy and the devastation of pregnancy loss. The show includes moments of humour in a tragic story that is always honest. It’s time to normalise the conversation. “
Q1 What inspired the show, and what motivated you to bring it to FRINGE WORLD?
Pregnancy loss is something that impacts so many people and yet it is not talked about. Since my husband and I experienced our first loss we have tried to be very open with friends and this has led to conversations in our circles. We have close friends who had never shared their grief with anyone until our openness ended their silence. Our experience led to the creation of What to Expect When You’re No Longer Expecting. It is our way of normalising talking about this experience by sharing our own. Together we are not alone.
Q2 What’s the most unexpected, funny, or interesting thing that has happened during the show’s development?
Listening to Chris tell us how he can’t play certain instruments and then play them perfectly.
Q3 What does the audience absolutely need to know before they come to see the show? (without spoilers, of course!)
While the show includes our loss, it also includes our joy and sharing of some funny moments. The story includes our stories of planning conception around ovulation and our experiences of early pregnancy. It also includes original songs written by myself and my rockstar husband Chris Rowe. For those with lived experience, there will be supports in place for you to take a moment if you need. Please feel free to reach out to Roe Rowe Productions if you are interested in coming but want to know more before you decide if the show is right for you.
Q4 If you could invite any famous person (living or dead) to the show, who would it be and why?
Jennifer Lawrence, she has been open about her lived experience which is so refreshing. She comes across as some one I could have a laugh and a cry with- which is exactly what this show is about!
Q5 What other show(s) would pair well with yours for a delicious FRINGE WORLD feast?
Our show is at 3pm, so stick around after have a hot drink with us and a debrief chat after the show. Then I would suggest heading downstairs to the Courtyard to watch From Naples…with Love! I think listening to Italian jazz would be a lovely way to end the evening and you might even have time for dinner in between.
BONUS ROUND: In 10 words or less, give us your last-ditch pitch to get folks in to see the show!
A story of love, loss and learning to live again.
