A PLAY aimed at explaining marriage breakdown for kids has led to more adults appreciating ­contemporary dance.

Natasha Gilmore discovered the link through Barrowland Ballet's twin productions of Tiger and Tiger Tale, now running at Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

The dual shows which trace the breakdown of a marriage and the effect it has on a family from the perspective of both the parents and their daughter have already received rave reviews.

"What has been interesting for us is that people bring their children to Tiger Tale though they might be hesitant to see contemporary dance.

"Often we've had people bring their children and then they decide to come back and see Tiger. They seem to feel they're more willing to take a risk," explains Natasha, who recently choreographed The River, ­involving a cast of 150 dancers on the banks of the Clyde in her contribution to Festival 2014.

Tiger Tale is told from the point of view of a young girl: she conjures up a tiger to change things in her family life that aren't necessarily how she wants them to be.

In Tiger, the focus shifts to the parents' outlook, the breakdown of their relationship and the need for change within it. They have lost their connection and love for one another and the arrival of a wild tiger makes them re-­examine their life.

The two shows were first conceived when Natasha worked with theatre director and playwright Robert Alan Evans.

"We realised the breakdown of a sexual relationship isn't interesting to children, it has no relevance to them. This gave us the freedom to really go in depth and explore different ideas," says Natasha.

"The adult show is a bit longer - there is an optimum amount of time for children to be quiet and sit still. I think we're really pleased we did take the risk and make two versions of the piece."

l Tiger Tale is at venue 150@EICC, 150 Morrison Street, Edinburgh, at 2pm until August 19 and Tiger is at the same venue at 6pm until August 19. Visit www.edfringe.com for tickets.

angela.mcmanus@eveningtimes.co.uk