60 Seconds With… the Author of ‘Hungry for the Children’

Briefly introduce yourself/your company…
My name is Katherine Bransgrove and my company is KB Productions. I am a writer and actress based in Vancouver. I have written “Hungry for the Children: Inspired by the Life of Caroline Norton” and will be playing Caroline Norton in the Fringe production. I am passionate about empowering people through telling the stories of strong, powerful and inspiring women. I am also focused on equal representation for women in theatre, film and television. I have just sold my first script, a thriller called “Found”.

What is it that makes your work/company unique
Our play is unique because we are telling the story of a woman who had a major impact on legal rights for women, but has largely been forgotten in history. In a patriarchal society where women had no rights and were considered the property of their husbands, Caroline Norton had the courage to take a stand and demand custody of her beloved children. This is a story about a mother whose love for her children inspired her to change the course of history. Women have many of the legal rights they have today because of her. Caroline was also a writer and poet, and this play is a very immersive experience where Caroline tells her story in her own words through her writing.

What kind of experience do you hope audiences will have during your show?
I hope that audiences will leave the show feeling empowered to fight for their own rights in their lives. This play also explores the topic of domestic violence and toxic relationships, as Caroline was forced to flee from her abusive husband. If one person develops the courage to leave a toxic relationship after watching our play, we would have achieved something important.

Without spoilers, tell us what you think audiences will remember most about your show?
I think that Caroline’s love for her children and her sorrow at losing them to an abusive partner shine through in this play.

What do you think is the best thing about the Fringe?
Fringe is an amazing place for artists to explore daring, unique and creative ideas. It provides a supportive community where all artists are accepted and have the opportunity to express themselves.

What is the most important thing you hope audiences will take away from your show?
That great changes can occur when we have the courage to fight for what we know is right.