Paperbirds

Paperbirds is a devised theatre company renowned for their socially and politically engaging performances. These performances blend verbatim theatre (theatre created entirely from other peoples words, i.e. 'I love you mum I promise I won't die') with physical theatre. The company was established in 2003 by Jemma McDonnell and Kylie Walsh. Key Characteristics are:

1) Verbatim Theatre

- Use real people's words, collected from interviews and conversation to create a script

- helps to portray authentic stories and current social issues

2) Physical Theatre

- Performers use their bodies and movements to create images, emotions etc without relying on sets

- The movements are stylized, expresses and symbolise complex ideas

3) Multi-rolling

- Actors would play several characters in a single piece. the changes are usually visible and obvious.

4) Direct Address

- Actors speak directly to the audience

- 'breaking the fourth wall' creates a more personal and engaging experience for the audience.

5) Social and Political Themes

- Their work always focuses on important societal issues (e.g. poverty, human trafficking, feminism and mental health)

- Raising awareness and provoking thought is the central aim