Rebel Sparks (formerly The Gramophones) took part in our Artist Residency programme in 2019, developing the aerial theatre show Aidy the Awesome.
Rebel Sparks held their first R&D at artsdepot, working with Composer Darren Clark, Aerial Choreographer Gwen Hales and performers Farrell Cox and Deborah Sanderson.
They plotted out the story of Aidy the Awesome, explored movement and worked with young girls and their Grandmas to test some of the ideas! This was followed by weeks of R&D in Derby looking at the aerial elements of the show. The full production was initially delayed due to Covid, but at the end of the lockdown Rebel Sparks were able to fully stage and film the show.
A year later, Aidy the Awesome was able to tour the show across England to multiple venues! It was nominated for a Fantastic for Families Award and received excellent reviews:
★★★★ “Fast-moving and feisty – a comic heroine for girls to emulate” – The Stage
★★★★★ “Equal parts panto, circus and musical … sure to leave the children for whom it is intended hungry for more theatrical experiences.” – The Reviews Hub
