It’s the Economy, Stupid!, a critically acclaimed production that captivated audiences at the Edinburgh Fringe, is embarking on an extensive UK tour. This innovative show, developed by Joe Sellman-Leava and Dylan Howells, and directed by the renowned Katharina Reinthaller, looks into the complex world of economics through a personal narrative and theatrical magic.
The production has resonated with viewers, selling out performances during its Fringe run, and is now set to reach a broader audience across the UK.
Exploring the connection between economics and personal lives
Joe and Dylan’s production is not your typical economic lecture. Using creative elements such as paper bags, an old board game, and projection mapping, they weave the story of Joe’s family, who lost their home during the early 1990s recession.
This personal tale is intertwined with an exploration of economic forces that continue to shape our lives, from the housing crisis to the rising cost of living. The show’s objective is to demystify economics, making it accessible and engaging, while also highlighting the human impact of economic policies.
The unique approach to discussing economics
It’s the Economy, Stupid! takes inspiration from James Carville, who famously encapsulated the economic concerns of the 1992 American Presidential election with the phrase. The show merges storytelling, magic, and auto-fiction to reveal the consequences of low financial literacy in a world dominated by money.
The production invites audiences to reflect on how the economy influences politics and contributes to ongoing crises, including climate change and the cost of living.
The creative team behind the show
The production is the result of a two-year collaboration between Sellman-Leava, Howells, and Reinthaller. Each brings a unique perspective and energy to the project, resulting in a show that is described as “mischievous, moving, and magical.” Sellman-Leava, who also stars in the production, emphasizes the importance of understanding the economy in shaping our world, particularly in relation to current global challenges.
A journey through the UK: Tour dates and venues
The UK tour will take It’s the Economy, Stupid! to various locations, giving audiences nationwide the opportunity to experience this powerful performance:
- 10th September: Old Woolen, Leeds
- 11th September: Down Town Kitchen & Café, Burnley
- 17th – 18th September: Tobacco Factory Theatres, Bristol
- 8th October: Auditorium, Exeter Phoenix
- 11th October: Tolmen Centre, Falmouth
- 12th October: The Old Library, Bodmin
- 14th – 16th October: Pleasance Theatre, London
- 18th October: Harrogate Studio Theatre, Harrogate
- 19th October: Norwich Theatre, Stage Two
- 22nd – 23rd October: The Everyman Studio, Cheltenham
- 24th October: Proteus Theatre, Basingstoke
- 25th – 26th October: Camden People’s Theatre, London
- 28th – 29th October: Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal Bath
This tour not only offers entertainment but also a thought-provoking examination of the economic realities affecting everyone today.
Praise and accolades
The production has received glowing reviews, with The Stage commending its blend of the personal and political, and Playbill highlighting the show’s charm and educational value. The List praises the show for stimulating both idealists and cynics, while The Arts Hub describes it as an “impassioned call to action.”
It’s the Economy, Stupid! is a performance that challenges audiences to think critically about the forces that shape our lives, making it a must-see as it tours the UK this autumn.
