Collaborator Profile Caroline Wigmore - Sutton STEAMS Ahead
Collaborator Profile: Caroline Wigmore
Caroline Wigmore is a playwright and producer. For Sutton STEAMs Ahead, She produced the The Queen’s Bee for the Stories from the Sheds project, a play aimed at families with young children, inspired by Sutton’s historical figure, Sarah Sprules.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I write musicals and plays and have written and co-written various works such as, The Queen's Bee, Elizabeth Holmes - How to Bleed Dry in Silicon Valley (which is development). Also, Pigs Might Fly from Michael Morpurgo's Mudpuddle Farm. The Velveteen Daughter and many more.
How were you involved in Sutton STEAMs Ahead?
I wrote and produced The Queen's Bee, working with actor Shaunna Duffy and puppet maker Petra Port. The Queen's Bee celebrates a local historical figure, Sarah Sprules (1836-1912), who owned local lavender fields. She was also the purveyor of lavender to Queen Victoria.
Actress Shaunna Duffy gave capivating performances of 'The Queen's Bee' which was written and produced by Caroline Wigmore.
Were there any highlights and/or take-aways from being part of Sutton STEAMs Ahead?
It was rewarding bringing this true story to local audiences who hadn't previously been aware of Sarah Sprules and the royal connection and a joy to see children and parents engaging with it.
What does STEAM mean to you?
I work professionally as a theatre writer/composer and believe that it is incredibly important for children to engage with the arts at an early age both for enrichment and education. I have a particular interest in projects that build community, support learning, help families and celebrate local history.
What’s up next for you?
I co-run Honeywood Mice, a free children's music, art and play group that meets weekly at Honeywood Museum, Carshalton.
Have you worked with us as part of the Sutton STEAMs Ahead programme? Contact us to potentially feature in a Collaborator Profile. Send an email to suttonsteamsahead@sutton.gov.uk.
