Wise Children

It’s early August, and the Wise Children Training Programme team is wrapping up the final week of three week-long training residencies at The Lucky Chance in Frome. Over the lunch break on the very last day, Emma grabs her fluffy mic and sits down with Ian Ross, John Leader, Helen Comerford, Katy (Mary) Owen, Riddell Elridge and Laura Keefe to reflect on what these vibrant weeks have meant — for the company, the trainees, and the future of theatre-making (and teaching the practice of Emma and Wise Children). Behind-the-scenes insights, big laughs, and a glimpse into how Wise Children is reimagining training for the next generation of artists.

It's Monday evening and it's a rare day off at Wise Children.  Emma has been busy with her fluffy mic recording the company as they get ready for a preview of North by Northwest.  She also talks about getting notes in the street whilst she was out on a run...  You can find out more about North by Northwest and all of Emma's work by visiting www.wisechildren.co.uk. Remember to hit like and subscribe. Thanks all. x  

NXNW Episode 2  In this episode we dive into the magic, mayhem, and magnificent theatricality of North by Northwest—Emma’s latest production. How do you take a classic Hitchcock film, famous for its high-octane chases, iconic suspense, and cinematic flair, and transform it into a breathtaking piece of live theatre? Joining Emma for this episode is the inimitable Katy Owen—a longtime Wise Children collaborator and a master of mischief on stage. Together, they unpack the creative process behind adapting this cinematic masterpiece, the joys and challenges of bringing its larger-than-life moments to the stage, and what audiences can expect from this thrilling new production.  Katy is joined by a large cinnamon bun - you'll have to listen... Also, Emma talks to sound designer and composer Simon Baker as the York Minster bells ring out on a Sunday morning.  Remember to like and subscribe!  

We're back with a new season of podcasts all about Emma's new production - North By Northwest.  We are mid-rehearsal with a room full of revolving doors, suitcases, and suits.  Join us as Emma talks about the show, the epic plot and how she might bring some of those iconic scenes to the stage. 

It’s busy here at Wise HQ—so much is happening, as always. We managed to steal a surprise day off to catch our breath and bring you all up to speed. In this episode, we’ll chat about the latest goings on, including news about Little Match Girl at The Lucky Chance. Plus, we’re gearing up for North by Northwest, coming your way this spring. Not to mention Wuthering Heights heading out on its international tour.  So, grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s catch up. 🎙️ Please hit like and subscribe - it really does help.    Photo credit - Richard Grassie  

To celebrate our 2nd year of The Little Match Girl at our home, The Lucky Chance, we teamed up with our local community radio station Frome FM to create a special one-off programme.0. This one's a little different to our regular podcasts as it assumes that you know nothing about Wise Children or even theatre!  So it's a very good place to start.  Hosted by Emma Rice with Simon Baker and features music from Wuthering Heights, Blue Beard, and Romantics Anonymous. 

Buddha of Suburbia at the RSC Stratford is now up and running and truly delighting audiences. We recorded this just before the first-ever dress rehearsal - so as Emma Rice talks to the creative team about the process you can hear hoovers, resets, and a fight call.  It's all going on in this crazy half hour.  You'll hear all about the process of bringing Hanif Kureishi's iconic novel to the stage from Rachana Jadhav - Set Designer Vicki Mortimer - Costume Designer Helen Johnson - Associate Costume Designer Jai Morjaria - Lighting Designer Etta Murfit - Choreographer & Intimacy Co-ordinator Surenne Somchit - Deputy Stage Manager Simon Baker - Sound Designer Steve Tanner - Production Photographer We've also some music from Niraj Chag Remember to hit like and subscribe to stay up to date with everything Wise Children and Emma Rice.         

On the eve of the final rehearsal room for Buddha Of Suburbia Emma takes the company on a trip to see our other production - Blue Beard.  This one was recorded entirely on the coach journey from Stratford Upon Avon to Birmingham.  The ultimate school trip!  

We're back in rehearsals with Emma's new production - The Buddha of Suburbia - adapted from (and with) the book by Hanif Kureishi.  This time we're at the RSC in Stratford Upon Avon.   In this episode, Emma talks about the acting company and the process of cutting work early.  We've also got some sneak peeks at the music by Niraj Chag.  

We recorded this on Sunday afternoon after a week of final previews, a press night and a load out. The show is now in several trailers heading to Home Manchester.  In today's episode, Emma reveals that she had a speech planned... and we get to hear it.   (This is the full edit. We managed to cut a whole section of material in the edit).