A pioneering theatrical experience is set to captivate audiences at the Edinburgh Fringe, as Derbyshire-based siblings David and Charlotte Alnwick prepare to unveil what they claim is the world’s first ‘found footage’ horror stage show, an innovative fusion of genres designed to blur the lines between reality and illusion.
The concept of ‘found footage’, popularized by films like “The Blair Witch Project,” typically involves presenting a work as if it were a discovered recording made by characters within the story. The Alnwicks have ingeniously adapted this cinematic technique for a live audience, promising an immersive and unsettling encounter that transcends traditional theatrical boundaries at the prestigious Edinburgh Fringe.
Their production, titled “The Dare Witch Project,” serves as both a parody and a terrifying exploration of the found footage trope. The narrative begins innocently with what appears to be a work-in-progress screening of a horror documentary, only to rapidly escalate into a living nightmare as the on-screen terror menacingly breaches the fourth wall, escaping into the physical space of the theatre and engaging directly with the audience.
David Alnwick, a renowned magician and psychological illusionist hailing from Wirksworth, elaborated on the inspiration behind the show, stating his long-standing passion for both horror and comedy. He highlighted that while “The Dare Witch Project” has been in development for approximately six months, the intricate techniques employed within the performance are the culmination of many years of dedicated experimentation and refinement in the field of psychological illusion.
Drawing parallels to the groundbreaking work of figures like Derren Brown, Alnwick explained their objective to apply the fourth-wall-breaking nature of found footage films to the stage. Recognizing contemporary audiences’ heightened skepticism compared to the 1990s, the show leverages sophisticated psychological illusion to meticulously manipulate perception, compelling viewers to genuinely question the reality of the unfolding events and ponder if what they are witnessing could, in fact, be real.
Describing himself as an ‘occult illusionist,’ David notes that much of his magical repertoire is infused with spooky or supernatural themes, a natural progression from his early fascination with magic and the profound influence of watching Derren Brown. This thematic alignment perfectly complements the chilling narrative of “The Dare Witch Project,” enhancing its eerie and immersive atmosphere.
The collaborative synergy between David and Charlotte Alnwick is the cornerstone of their creative output. For nearly a decade, this brother-sister duo has consistently crafted compelling mixed-media performances, with Charlotte overseeing the writing, directing, and world-building, while David takes center stage as the performer. Their combined expertise ensures a fast-paced, engaging, and psychologically stimulating experience for theatre-goers.
This year marks their fifteenth venture to the Edinburgh Fringe, a testament to their enduring presence and innovative spirit within the festival scene. Charlotte remarked on the unique duality of the Fringe, where despite its annual familiarity, each visit feels distinct yet comforting, a place where diverse artistic expressions, from gymnastics to bagpipes, coexist vibrantly, underscoring the festival’s unparalleled atmosphere of creative freedom and exploration for pioneering shows like this horror theatre.
