Over the past few months, we’ve all found ourselves trying new things. Languages, baking, home-made face masks… And all with varying degrees of success.
Nevertheless, we managed to fill our free time with far more variety than repeated visits to the mall. If you’ve embraced new experiences, it doesn’t have to end as life in the city returns to normal.
In fact, this one could be just what you’re looking for.
Better still, it’s an opportunity to support the UAE’s theatrical community while they wait to be able to return to the stage proper.
With five shows taking place across Thursday July 16, Friday 17 and Saturday 18, Ashputtel! promises to bring you the story of Cinderella – but not as you know it. In more ways than one.
This is an interactive theatre event, taking place on Zoom. And not only can you watch from your living room, but you’ll be able to interact with, and shape the story as it goes along.
Put together by Bark At A Crow and MXB Studios, the performance is based on the original 1812 fairy tale by The Brothers Grimm. Our protagonist, Ashputtel, lives a life of poverty and servitude at the hands of her stepmother and stepsisters. Aided by a mysterious forest creature, she manages to break free, and heads for the palace to win the heart of the prince.
Audience members will need to help Ashputtel complete her tasks, join her in a party at the palace, and perhaps also help her get even with those sinister stepsisters.
With actors performing from both Dubai and London, prepare for a truly global performance that can be watched wherever you are in the world.
“Zoom means we’re not limited geographically,” said Shereen Saif, a Dubai-based actor and dancer who plays Ashputtel’s mystical aid in the show. “There is a global audience. We are pushing boundaries and taking a leap of faith with this experiment, but we aim to create a slick, entertaining show.”
Tickets for the 45-minute performance cost Dhs75 per one Zoom code.
Round up your household and get involved.
Show timings: Thu July 16 and Fri 17, 4pm and 9pm; Sat 18, 9pm. Timings in GST. Visit www.barkatacrow.com for tickets.
