Walking the Tightrope

by Mike Kenny

A story of family, loss, and the poetry of the circus. Every year right at the end of summer just before the leaves turn brown and fall from the trees, Esme comes to stay with her Nanna and Granddad… But this year something is different; Nanna Queenie is gone. Though Grandad and Esme do the fun activities they usually do, things aren’t the same without Nanna Queenie. Grandad can’t bring himself to say that Nanna has died, so he explains that Nanna has joined the circus.

$12.00

Quick Details

  • Type: Play
  • Estimated Run Time: 75 minutes
  • Availability: Available for productions in the United States and Canada
  • Cast Size: 2-3 roles

Full Details

Roles:

  • Esme
  • Grandad
  • (optional) Nanna Queenie, non-speaking

The following resources are included in each performance license:
  • Permission to photocopy the PDF script for your production so there is no additional cost for these assets.

The following resources may be added to you license for an additional fee:
  • Logo/Media package

Mike Kenny

Mike Kenny is one of the England's leading writers, specializing in young people's theatre. He is the recipient of numerous awards, was included in the Independent on Sunday's list of Top Ten Living UK Playwrights and his plays are performed regularly throughout the UK and all over the world. In 2013 he was given an Honorary Doctorate of Letters by Nottingham University, England.

Originally produced by New Perspectives, UK, in 2000


Winner of the 2009 Dora Mavor Award for Theatre Direct’s Outstanding Production and Outstanding Performance for Theatre for Young Audiences

Walking the Tightrope was the first recipient of Arts Council England’s Award for Playwrighting for Children & Young People.

Photos of production at Wheelock Family Theatre in 2020

Photos of production at Wheelock Family Theatre in 2020

Photos of production at Wheelock Family Theatre in 2020

Reviews

“

Sometimes, but not very often, the planets align, the Gods smile down, and all the pieces fall into place creating a perfect storm of creative energy that brings about a truly miraculous result. That is certainly the case withWalking the Tightrope.

- Stage and Cinema
“

Walking the Tightrope sets the bar high for quality children’s theatre.

- LAist