Since 1995 Simon Schofield and his female co-performers have travelled all over the world with their unique act that combines dance, music, theatrical expression, and props that include a rotating platform, and a giant bubble. They have performed at Street Theatre events, festivals, and corporate events all over the world
Suite101: What is your background in performing arts?
Schofield: “I started performing as a juggler at the age of 20 – that’s what really got me going. I had done a few school plays and been in the local youth orchestra, but variety and circus is where I found myself.”
Suite101: Where did the name Heir of Insanity come from, does it have any special meaning?
Schofield: “Heir of Insanity is a twist on a Primal Scream track name. Probably means different things to different people, but I like to think it refers to the acceptance of the alternative – with maybe even a duty to show the world alternative emotions.”
Suite101: What's been the highlight of your career so far?
Schofield: “So many special events – from beaches in Thailand to farmer’s fields in Wales, from Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square, from the rooftops of Shanghai to the streets of Ludlow – as long as the audience are happy, they are all incredible.”
Suite101: Is there any prop or piece of equipment you'd love to work in to your act given the chance?
Schofield: “We are always trying to develop what we do, the equipment we use, and the set we surround ourselves with. We have worked a lot with inflatable sets and structures in the past, perform on revolving podiums and have designed our own aerial rigs. We are currently working on a new show that will involve a new set/structure design, so we are very excited about that.”
Suite101: Are there any limits to the amount of moves etc you can do? How do you manage to keep things fresh and original?
Schofield: “We are limited only by our imagination…..and administration, and health and safety, and insurance, and equipment maintenance, and time travelling to and from gigs, and the exertion of touring, rigging, de-rigging, late nights, early mornings…then there’s the physical strength. We love what we do, which keeps it fresh and exciting. We also try and develop new shows, or embellish existing acts, all the time – ever looking to make it better.
Suite101: Can you tell us a bit about the different shows you perform? Is there a favourite with the audiences?
Schofield: “It’s probably best to check the website for the different shows that we perform. I love them all.”
Suite101: What are your hopes for the future of Heir of Insanity?
Schofield: “To carry on entertaining people, and showing them something different.”
Suite101: Where can people see you perform in the future?
Schofield: “Much of our work is not confirmed until last minute – such is the nature of the world at the moment. We are considering having a date sheet on our website, but in the meantime people can email us through the website.”
Also on Suite101: Street Theatre events in the U.K
Lauren John - Lauren is a freelance writer from Chelmsford in Essex. She has been writing professionally since graduating from University with a Higher ...
