Parking Around

Parking Around, the new and exciting show from circus theatre group Rogue Play, is taking place this weekend. We caught up with Bearwood resident, Niamh Smyth, who's taking part to find out more about it.

It sounds like a lot of fun. How did you get involved and what role do you play?

I first heard of Rogue Play through the audition advertisement for the community project that evolved into ‘Parking Around’. Not only did I love the idea of 12 people from all different backgrounds learning something as exciting and challenging as aerial circus skills. But I had previously been tempted to join aerial circus classes but found the idea of going it alone quite daunting.  

You've obviously really enjoyed the experience.  What are your plans for the future?

Now, I have met some amazingly talented new friends as well as had the pleasure of being trained by some incredible people.  The project will be a positive, humorous and dynamic presentation of park life in which you will be able to see me in an aerial silks routine, a dance and a lifts and acrobalance sequence.

Wow!  So what has been the most challenging thing you've done?

Although the whole training process was physically challenging there were also many mental barriers for everyone involved whether that be being afraid of heights, being able to trust somebody or yourself to keep you safe.  

You are brave. Is this something you would like to do again in the future? 

I think its safe to say I am now addicted to the feeling of accomplishing something new in circus skills every single time I visit Rogue Play, the rate at which everyone improves is an incredible thing to watch and I definitely plan on continuing my journey with Rogue Play.

Fantastic.  

What’s your connection to Bearwood? 

I’ve lived in Bearwood my whole life so it’s the place that I call home.  

We like calling it home too. 

Please tell us your Bearwood All-Star. In other words what, where or who makes you smile in Bearwood?

My Bearwood All-Stars would be a certain 2 houses on St Mary’s Road and Barclay Road; it would be telling to tell you what number!

Niamh, one more question which we like to ask everyone this question is what makes Lightwoods Chippy’s chips orange?

Fairy dust and sunshine. 

Aaah, we love that answer!  

Thanks Niamh for agreeing to the welovebearwood interview.  

We’ll come and see you on Saturday.

Parking Around is on this weekend at the following times and venues.

On Saturday 14th June at at 12pm and at 3pm at Eastside Park Curzon St, Birmingham, West Midlands B4 7AP 

On Sunday 15th June at 12pm and at 3pm at Walkers Heath Park, off Walkers Heath Road, Kings Norton, Birmingham, B38 0AU 

The performances are completely FREE to the public and followed by FREE participatory workshops for adults and children alike.

So come along and get Parking Around!  For more details please visit Parking Around's Facebook page right here!