KooKoo the Birdgirl

Overview

There has never been someone quite like Minnie Woolsley, aka KooKoo the Birdgirl. That was the billing the American entertainer received when she starred in iconic 1932 horror film Freaks. Yes, the movie's not-so-subtle title, as well as her distinctive stage name, paint quite the picture.

Woolsley suffered from a rare congenital growth skeletal disorder that made her look avian in appearance, which is what brought her to fame; however it's the reality behind the sideshow that motivates the Metro Arts production that shares her adopted moniker. Sarah Houbolt dives into the history of the weird and wonderful part of travelling circuses through the lens of her inspiration, resulting in a bizarre and completely unexpected performance.

Across four shows from November 3 to 5, KooKoo the Birdgirl will unleash its unusual delights, though heading to the venue on November 2 is also recommended. That's when Freaks will screen, giving context to Houbolt's show — and gifting audiences the chance to see the classic movie in Metro Arts' cinema.