Andy Joyce spoke to Emma Clarendon about bringing Brainiac Live! to the Garrick Theatre.
Hi, so for those who haven’t seen the show – could you explain how Brainiac Live! works? Brainiac Live is a face paced science show with lots of explosions, experiments, live stunts and things you must not try at home!! Our mission is to entertain the audience with our crazy stunts and teach people a few things along the way. We have four Brainiacs who
will take you on a journey using CO2 powered spinning chairs, liquid nitrogen and even trust the properties of material to see if you can run-through them!
How did you get involved with the production?I went to an audition for a different show and the producers of Brainiac were there and
decided that I would fit right in. I started working with the show ten years ago as the head Brainiac, Brainiac Ned. As well as still performing in the show, I now write and direct the live stage show.
What was it that made you want to be part of the show? As I mentioned it was a bit of an accident when I first got cast for the show, however I knew
the TV show really well and was excited to be involved. As soon as we started rehearsal I knew I’d love it. Also I learnt a few things about science along the way.
Are you allowed to explain what types of experiments take place on stage? Any favourites? We do lots of different experiments and I don’t want to give too much away. I think my favourite is using Liquid Nitrogen. Liquid Nitrogen is -196 degrees Celsius and can be really dangerous and is incredibly cold. You will see us use it to make the gas inside a balloon turn
to liquid as well as make a huge explosion.
Why do you think shows such as Brainiac Live are so important for children to see? I think firstly it is good family fun but with an underlining message about science. I like to think children enjoy the show and take at least one thing away with them to tell their friends or even their science teachers. After all, the children that come to see the show are the next
generation of scientists and if we can inspire them just a little then you never know what they can go onto achieve.
What about your interest in science and experiments – what do you find
fascinating about it? I wasn’t particularly interested in science at a young age – I was much more into my sports. However, after being involved with the show, my love for science has grown daily. We have visited many science labs and scientists in order to come up with new ideas for the show. I like to pass on what I’ve learnt in a fun and inspiring way. I’m always fascinated when we get to meet the children after the show and they tell us about their ideas or theories.
If you had to tempt someone to come along and see the show what would you say?Are you ready to see the most outrageous live science show with exploding dustbins, combusting microwaves, live daredevil stunts and all the experiments you‘re not allowed to do at home? Based on the popular TV show, come join the fearless Brainiacs as they take you on a breathless ride through the wild world of the weird and wonderful. Watch from the
safety of your seat as the Brainiacs delve fearlessly into the mysteries of science – are you brave enough to sit through this hour of mischief and science calamity?
By Emma Clarendon
Brainiac Live! will play at the Garrick Theatre from the 31st July until the 1st September. To book tickets click here or visit: Love Theatre.com, Encore Tickets, See Tickets, Theatre Tickets Direct.co.uk, From the Box Office or Last Minute.com.