Spindle Collective is back to bring chills to your spine with their latest work, Síofra. Natalia Bushnik and Kathleen Welch are the creative minds behind SAMCA, Síofra, and the forthcoming SpilleHOLLE. I get to ask them about these shows, about their process, and what audiences can expect from Síofra.

1. Could you please introduce yourselves and tell my readers a bit about your roles with Síofra?

We are Natalia Bushnik and Kathleen Welch, and we run an award-winning horror-theatre company, spindle collective. Most recently we produced the first ever Toronto Horror-Theatre Festival in January, to sold-out audiences. Now we’re back with a new folk horror play titled ‘síofra’. We co-wrote the show, and Kathleen is serving also as our Director and Music Composer.

2. Síofra is the second part in a trilogy the two of you are creating. Where did your inspiration for this trilogy come from?

We are both drawn to traditional folktales and their themes of parenting and fertility. By taking known lore from varying countries and putting them in a historical context, we discover relevant stories that are confrontational and current. The Dark Mother Trilogy follows the journey of motherhood over the course of three plays set in three different countries. síofra’s core story is the journey of a new mother.

3. What draws you to creating musical elements for your theatre?

Music is a big part of folk and folk horror tradition and, although we might not include music in all of our future productions, for now it has been a wonderful way to build on the world and atmosphere of the play. The music that is infused in the show doesn’t drive the plot, but it does drive the play forward in a way that is under the surface. Plus, it’s fun to create!!

4. What are you excited for the most from the rehearsal process?

It will be a whirlwind! With a cast of 9 with only 2 weeks of rehearsal in a small black box studio, this will probably be our most ambitious adventure yet! Time constraints mean we need to buckle in, and oftentimes close deadlines lead to the best creativity!

5. What can audiences expect from Síofra?

Audiences will likely be deeply disturbed and craving a guinness. Good thing that The Roy is right next door for a pint!

I want to thank Natalia and Kathleen for taking the time to answer my questions. Síofra runs at the Red Sandcastle Theatre from June 17 – 28. For more information and tickets, visit: https://ticketscene.ca/series/1513

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