Eleanor Higgins talks In PurSUEt at VAULT Festival 2023

We spoke to writer and performer Eleanor Higgins about taking part in VAULT Festival 2023 with her show In PurSUEt.

Can you sum up your show in five words?

Silly, scary, stalky, serious and psychotic

Why Sue Perkins?

This is a question we get asked a lot! We’re big fans of Sue, she is one of those celebrities that has such a universal appeal and is generally loved by everyone. She’s reached a sort of a national treasure status. At one point we were thinking of using Moira Stuart, but kept coming back to Sue. She’s funny, quirky, good natured and relatable. Why not Sue?

What do you want the audience to take away from the show?

I think a central message we love for people take to away from the show is one of hope. When reading its premise, we find there can be a divide between the people that have had celebrity crushes growing up, and go in with a sense of affiliation towards the central character, and those who find her obsession unnerving. By the end, we hope audiences walk away relating to our protagonist far more than they expected. And know that if you’re willing to face your demons, your life can change at any point.

What excites you most about taking part in VAULT Festival 2023?

The tunnels! No but in all seriousness, this is my first time performing at VAULT Festival so I’m super thrilled to be part of it. It’s the biggest arts festival in England and has such a wide and eclectic programme of shows. I’m excited to see all of the other wonderful artists. There’s a real sense of community and camaraderie amongst the performers, staff and audiences and that’s just a lovely thing to be part of.

What’s next for Bush Productions?

If I told you I’d have to kill you! But really, it’s been such an exciting time. In PurSUEt has another five months left of national tour. Then we have a new project coming up that we’re finally able to talk about (a little bit!) It’s very much a WIP that we’re calling WANTED. It looks at the themes of what it means to be wanted in this world, until you’re not, whilst also being wanted by the police. Watch this space!

See In PurSUEt at VAULT Festival 25^th – 26^th February and 4 – 5^th March, more details here