Getting a Drink at the End of the World, Etcetera Theatre
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Would you keep working in a bar if the end of the world was imminent? Would you keep partying till the last moment? That’s what Daisy Hills and Jack Bickford explore in their latest show, Getting a Drink at the End of the World. It promises to make you laugh and cry, as well as challenge you. Sounds like the perfect fringe show to us, and all the more reason to chat with the duo to find out more.
Catch the show at Etcetera Theatre from 7 to 9 August, more information and tickets are available here.
What can audiences expect from the show?
When a world ending meteorite comes crashing down where will you be? Our play finds seasoned bartender Leo and new manager Michelle at a run down cocktail bar working doubles during their final days on planet Earth. Why? Well, someone has to keep this party going! With themes of modern nihilism, climate change and an unlikely romantic bond, Getting a Drink at the End of the World is a must see show that challenges as much as entertains modern audiences, so don’t miss out on this years most important piece of art.
Is this the first time you’re performing the show?
This is the first time it’s being performed and we picked the Camden Fringe for its range of diverse and view-challenging theatre its made in the past. All work in this fringe is original too so its the perfect place to test new writing also as well as the location being a prime spot for our demographic of viewers in a cultural hub.
Being a fringe festival, we all know sets have to be bare minimum, how have you got around this with your set and props?
We have built a handmade pop-up bar using guides online that is foldable and sturdy enough to take enough weight. The challenge of quick get ins and out is one we have been working with for years now so we are quite well rehearsed in breaking down stages and props quickly and efficiently. The bar space is by no means minimal, it includes neon lights, a bottle stock back bar and adjustable beer taps but its designed to be set in a way that our team can break it down in a matter of minutes.
What has been the biggest challenge in realising the writers vision for the show?
The biggest challenge would have to be the sound design, as most of our inspiration tracks would work perfectly fine but as a fringe company we do not have access to licence such bops so we’ve had to be creative in creating tracks that have the sound and feel of some of the classic pop and house tracks.
How important is audience interaction to you?
Our show is a rom com so we not only encourage audience interaction we demand it! If some people aren’t dying of laughter or wiping tears off their cheeks then we’re doing our job wrong. This show aims to make you gasp, weep and cheer for whatever reason you see fit in the moment!
Are there any plans for what comes next after the show has finished its run for you or the show?
We aim to take this show to Edinburgh Fringe as we believe it has a perfect afterlife as its themes will be still be current in five, ten, even 100 years. The goal of touring this show is to challenge as many people as we entertain, as climate dangers are still present in today’s world despite Net Zero claims from some. Shows like this are needed in our artistic landscape now more than ever so that’s why we’d love to keep it going as long as possible.
If you had to describe your show as a colour what would it be?
Neon pink for the flashy Simmon’s bar esc vibe we are looking to emulate.
If your show had a soundtrack, what songs would definitely be on it?
Charlie’s work would feature heavily on it including songs such as 360 or Party 4 Yo. Maybe club classics like 212 from Banks or Rock your Body from Black Eyed Peas.
If budget or reality was not an issue what is the one thing you would love to have in your show?
If budget or real life weren’t an issue we’d hire a real bar and work it as a real bar space for audience members to buy drinks and get out our menus pre show. This immersion may not work but it would be a dream to try it.
What is the most valuable piece of advice you have received during your career and how has it influenced your work on this show?
Don’t wait for the phone to ring. Our company has been founded on those ideals as in such a crowded market, you have to make your own work and not wait for others to tell you it’s good enough. Don’t limit your artist capabilities! If you want to act or write or produce then just do it by yourself for yourself. It won’t be easy but if it’s what you really want then it’s impossible to fail.
Thanks to Jake Bickford and Daisy Hills for chatting about their show, we can’t wait to cry and laugh our way through their nihilistic adventure. If it’s tickled your fancy, Getting a Drink at the End of the World is at Etcetera Theatre from Thursday 7 to Saturday 9 August.
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