Interview with A Tale of Us show writer Sharon Kanolik

What first inspired you to write A Tale of Us, and why is this story important to share right now?

I wrote A Tale of Us to explore and celebrate the identity change that many new parents experience. I loved becoming a mum but I also found parenting all encompassing, with little space and time for me to process what my new life and sense of self was with a small person in tow. Our society is now further understanding Matrescence and Patrescence; the profound ‘physical, psychological and emotional changes’ and shifts in identity that parents go through after the birth of a child. A Tale of Us gives audiences space to reflect on and honour this experience through a story and sensory journey that appeals to parents and babies alike.

How does the show open up conversations and explore parental mental health?

I think most parents can relate to what the character of Ivy experiences in A Tale of Us. Ivy’s full of love for her daughter- she’s also completely knackered. She feels pressure to hang on to parts of her old life and also to be the perfect parent and ‘enjoy every minute’. Ivy uses a lot of humour to process the everyday moments of parenting that she finds weird, wonderful, absurd or challenging.  Through Ivy I wanted to talk honestly about parental mental health and the vulnerability you can experience, the pressure to seem like you’re nailing it when you’re finding it full on. A Tale of Us holds all of these contrasting feelings that can often be taboo. 

What do you hope audiences, especially parents and caregivers, take away from the performance?

I hope that parents and caregivers feel seen, understood and respected after watching A Tale of Us. That what you’re doing matters and you’re getting more things right than wrong, even if it doesn’t always feel that way! I want parents and caregivers to have a really fun first experience of theatre with their baby. The stay and play after the show also gives families the opportunity to meet and hang out which we hope can build a sense of community and connection amongst our audiences.

What makes A Tale of Us unique in its storytelling or staging?

Before writing A Tale of Us I saw shows that tended to focus on either the babies or the adults in the audience. A Tale of Us includes both babies and adults equally through an interactive, relaxed sensory journey. Throughout the piece there’s a lot to see, hear, touch and play with to spark your baby’s curiosity. The show has been made by an experienced team of award-winning theatremakers, all of whom are also parents. We’ve paid lots of attention to make a lush and special experience for parents, caregivers and babies.

If someone is hearing about the show for the first time, what’s one moment or aspect you’re most excited for them to experience?

Without giving any spoilers there are some surprises towards the end of the show that will delight parents and babies alike. Every performance is different depending on how the babies interact with the show so it always feels fresh. We can’t wait for you to see it!