Of all of these, though, one of the most important things was to know what we wanted, and to focus on that goal. Some will go wanting 5 star reviews, packed houses, an international tour, their big break in the industry... dozens of other things, I'm sure. Believe me, if a young company like us try and tackle even a few of those at once, you mustn't be surprised if you go home with your boxes un-ticked.
Within the industry in general, you come across so many 'fledgling' companies that it would be impossible to see even half excel to the likes of DV8 or Complicite. But I wouldn't want that, even if it were possible. Even if we were one of them.
Don't you think it's great that each August sees hundreds of newly formed ensembles bravely try out something new to the Scotsman critic who has already sat through 4 shows that afternoon? Isn't it wonderful to watch a young company return the following year with a second attempt, be that an anticipated follow-up or a second stab at critical acclaim? That's what theatre and performance are all about, right?
Well, not to most. For far too many, theatrical success is a packed out 600seater, a glowing spiel from the Guardian and a tour extension 'due to popular demand'. It isn't about the family of four who bravely stayed in their seats when they realized they would be the only audience that day, yet walked away with a rare smile on their face and the feeling that they had been privy to an experience tailored just for them. That would be a failure (even by fringe theatre standards) apparently.
Well, I have no idea whether Fairly Tales will impress the critic from the Scotsman, or indeed the lonely family of four, but I know that we're going to spend the best part of a month working as hard as we can towards our goal. And if we can give a few children the inspiration to pick up their felt tips, or take out their notebooks, and go hunting for those stories that are yet to be told, we'll be well on our way to achieving it.
So, whilst we join the thousand-strong collection of artistic expression relocating to Scotland this summer, and whilst we would love our little 50seater buzzing before each show, I know that's not why I'm there. Nor is it why all those other new companies should be. It's to play your part. To tell your stories. To bring them to life.
Fairly Tales is performing from 6th-27th August (not 16th) in the Pleasance Courtyard at 11.30am. Tickets are available here.