60 Seconds With… a Playful Child ‘June Bug ‘

Briefly introduce yourself/your company…
Ragamuffin Productions was formed by Sargil Tongol, Christian Krushel and myself, Ashley Chodat. After graduating Douglas College’s theatre program, we wanted to continue collaborating together. In 2019, we did Legoland by Jacob Richmond for three runs: Surrey Little Theatre’s Debutheatre, the Dramatic Work’s Series at Vancouver Fringe and Replay Festival with Staircase Theatre. Tying into the name Ragamuffin, our mandate is “creating off the wall theatre for the unconventional. Shows that challenge audiences to celebrate the deviant and outlandish.”

What is it that makes your work/company unique
Our company focuses on supporting emerging artists and providing opportunities for them to develop their skills. I think what’s unique about June Bug is our one person show is double cast. Both Pamela Carolina Martinez and Gabrielle Nebrida-Pépin are brilliant in the role. Also two performers, means two different interpretations so see it twice 🙂

What kind of experience do you hope audiences will have during your show?
I hope audiences will find joy and rediscover their inner child. June Bug has such a playful imagination, as we see her bring objects to life and embody different characters. There’s a lot of nostalgic references and humour, too! I’m hoping that lands!

Without spoilers, tell us what you think audiences will remember most about your show?
June Bug’s outer space adventure. I can’t give too much away, but it’s one of my favourite moments! I think audiences will also remember the ending. No spoilers, but it’s heartwarming.

What do you think is the best thing about the Fringe?
The variety of shows! There’s so many to chose from! I love how Fringe offers something for everyone. I also admire how passionate and hard working Fringe artists are. It’s not easy to self-produce and tour shows.

What is the most important thing you hope audiences will take away from your show?
I hope audiences leave feeling comforted and supported. June Bug struggles to understand unfamiliar emotions and is reluctant to come to terms with her circumstances. That being said, I can never predict what audiences will take away from our shows. It changes a lot from person to person.