Interview with Tika Mu’tamir, The Firework-Maker’s Daughter

Hailed by The Spy in the Stalls as a “world of sparkle and spectacle”, Polka Theatre presents a brand-new production of The Firework-Maker’s Daughter this festive season. Directed by Lee Lyford, this show for young audiences is based on the much-loved, award-winning book by Philip Pullman. The Firework-Maker Daughter follows Lila on the quest of a lifetime as she faces friend and foe on her illuminating journey of self-discovery. We caught up with Tika Mu’tamir, who plays Lila to find out more about this production.

To begin with, can you remember where your passion for theatre first began, and what moments or influences set you on the path toward becoming a performer?

In my school in Malaysia, the UK physical theatre company ‘Frantic Assembly’ came to do a residency. It was the first time I devised storytelling through the body, from then on I fell in love with how theatre had many different ways of executing and expressing itself. I also had a brilliant drama teacher in school who believed and saw something in me before I had the confidence to see it in myself.

You’re starring in Polka Theatre’s brand-new festive production of The Firework-Maker’s Daughter. For those who may not know the story, can you give us a quick synopsis of it?

Lila, the daughter, wants to be a Firework-Maker just like her dad, but her dad feels afraid to let her pursue it. She goes on a big, scary adventure to pass the final test so she can become a true firework-maker. It involves self-igniting fireworks, a fire-fiend, pirates, a white Elephant, and trying to save her father’s life!

What can audiences expect from this production - is this something which parents will enjoy just as much as young people?

It’s definitely a very explosive show as well as very touching and intimate. When looking out into the audience, the parents want to lovingly pull their children in, whilst the kids are at the edge of their seats, hungry to take it all in.

What initially drew you to the role, and what have you enjoyed most about stepping into this story and bringing your character to life?

Lila is a very determined and committed girl, I wanted to play her strength, so children could be inspired by her authenticity and being true to herself. I’ve enjoyed how physical and focused Lila is to play. She is very balanced, knowing when to take control and when to go with the flow.

Where have you drawn inspiration from when developing your character of Lila?

My very creative nieces, they take play and joy very seriously and love to get lost in their own world of making and creating – nothing and no one can stop them.

You’ve worked on productions for young audiences before. How does performing for children differ from performing for adult audiences, and what do you find most rewarding about creating theatre for this age group?

Children find it easier to get lost in the world and let imagination take them. It’s also a lot quicker feedback if they enjoy it or not! I love seeing the awe and inspiration children take from seeing creativity on stage. They give such amazing energy in return, if they feel the same presence, consideration and effort is being offered and given to them.

The theatre, Polka Theatre, is recognised for its imaginative shows. What has it been like collaborating with this creative team?

Wonderful, it was a very inspiring and talented room. Everyone created from their expertise with curiousity and excitement. It made it so easy to immerse myself in the world because they committed and delivered by bringing their beautiful visions of the story onto the Polka stage.

The story explores themes of courage, creativity, and following your dreams. Are there particular messages or moments in the show that resonate with you personally?

Me choosing a path of acting got a lot of push back from my school peers. I was the first person in my school in Malaysia to apply for a straight acting degree and it was seen as risky and an unrealistic career choice. I’m lucky I had support from my family and teacher and the courage and passionate drive to follow my creative dreams. 

Now I get to do what I love because I choose what I love.

What do you hope young people—and their grown-ups—take away from the production when the curtain falls?

How important and freeing it is to be yourself and to also love and nurture those nearest and dearest to you.

Finally, why should people book a ticket to see this show over the festive period?

There are so many fun, exciting and beautiful things to see, hear and feel in The Firework-Maker’s Daughter. The story takes you by the hand and brings you on such an epic, heart-warming adventure!

The Firework-Maker’s Daughter plays at Polka Theatre until 18 January.