Canadian clowns Les Foutoukours are bringing their very own brand of charm, humour and acrobatics to this year’s Fringe.
The troupe has been out on the streets of Edinburgh, meeting visitors and showing off their skills, to coincide with the world premiere of their new show Nova, which opens on 1 August.
Nova follows the adventures of two young friends who meet in a magical secret attic to read books and play games.
One day, in the depths of winter, the enchanted candles which provide light and heat go out – the children need to find a way to rekindle the flames before they freeze.
Combining gentle humour, outright hilarity, gravity-defying acrobatics and dazzling juggling, it’s ideal children’s entertainment that will delight the whole family.
Nova marries clowning with a celebration of childhood creativity. It aims to leave audiences with a sense of happiness and remind them that even in dark times there is light to be found.
It also embodies the company’s emphasis on gentleness, audience interaction, and emotional diversity.
The company champions traditional circus clown techniques and seeks to bring wonderment to audiences in every type of venue.
Praise for previous Fringe shows
Les Foutoukours have appeared at the Fringe three times in the past, with their ★★★★★ hit shows Kombini and Brotipo, earning widespread critical acclaim and being described as “masters of slapstick” by The Scotsman.
Brotipo 2022 and 2023
- “Hilarious and comical, that’s Brotipo,” Mix Up Theatre ★★★★★
- “Fast moving and fun,” UK Cabaret ★★★★★
- “A high energy two-person acrobatic show for everyone!” Fringe Review Highly Recommended
Kombini 2019
- “It’s a privilege to spend time with this adorable twosome” The Scotsman ★★★★
- “Holds the attention and delights in equal measure” Broadway Baby ★★★★
-Ends-
Notes for editors
Picture by Duncan McGlynn
Listings Details
- Venue: Assembly Roxy – upstairs (Venue 139)
- Time: 15:45
- Dates: 1 August preview. 2-11, 13-18, 20-25 August
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Ticket prices: Preview £8. Full price £14, concessions £13, family £13
- Advisory: Age 5+
- Tickets https://tickets.edfringe.com
Cast and creatives
- Company Les Foutoukours
- Artistic Director Rémi Jacques
- Musical Director Jean-Félix Bélanger,
- Performers Emma Verhaeghe and Joaquim Verrier
- Set Rémi Jacques and Damien Boudreau
- Costume Rémi Jacques, Atelier M Couture
About Les Foutoukours
Les Foutoukours’ productions in acrobatic clown art have been touring the world since 1997, garnering several awards along the way such as the 2022 Avignon OFF Awards for Young Audiences.
The company has become is one of the most popular in Quebec. They have created 20 productions and reached over 500,000 audience members with their intelligent acrobatic clowning. They blend storytelling, theatre, clown, dance, and circus to offer diverse entertainment. Working with talented multidisciplinary artists, the company has distinguished itself in the performing world of Quebec and internationally.
Nova marks a new phase of expansion for Les Foutoukours (which has its 27th anniversary in 2024), allowing the company to have multiple shows on the road at any one time. This will be the first time that artistic director Rémi Jacques and musical director Jean-Félix Bélanger, have not been on stage themselves. The pair will continue touring the world with their popular shows such as Glob and Oppidum while Emma and Joaquim can take Nova to other venues.
Facebook @LesFoutoukours Instagram @Foutoukours Websites assemblyfestival.com lesfoutoukours.com
Media information: Matthew Shelley 07786 704299 or [email protected]