Behind the Scenes

Recently we have been knee deep in rehearsals for our version of HMS Pinafore. Here are a selection of behind the scenes shots of rehearsals and the set construction phases. Mostly we like to re-use elements from previous productions then update them with tweaks and paint. Ultimately we need to buy our own set of scaffolding, as it is so versatile.   Continue reading Behind the Scenes

Performing on the Globe Theatre Stage

To summarise my experience with the Teachers Go Global programme has been the hardest thing to write. To say the experience was life altering seems trite, but so true. For most of my life, I have never really felt “at home”. This has extended to frequent moves, an extended list of places I don’t want to live, and a need to be near a certain … Continue reading Performing on the Globe Theatre Stage

Back on the Bandwagon

It has been a crazy, crazy year. This year Theatre has become my priority and taken over so much of my life. I have had the best time, from directing, to writing, to creating, to performing. This has included working on original projects, working on my Masters in Creative Writing (scriptwriting), traveling to London to study and perform at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, devising, starting a … Continue reading Back on the Bandwagon

The 12 Plays of Christmas – Day 8 – Pericles, the Prince of Tyre

Welcome to Day 8 and 2018!  Yay!  Today brings us to one of my favourite Shakespearean plays – “Pericles; The Prince of Tyre”.  Over the last few years I have become obsessed with trying to win this award for the most unusual choice of play, which has led to me reading a number of unusual Shakespearean texts.  “Pericles; The Prince of Tyre” has it all, … Continue reading The 12 Plays of Christmas – Day 8 – Pericles, the Prince of Tyre

The importance of your Backstage Tech Crew

Obviously we all know that the tech crew are the unsung heroes of the theatre. They work long hours behind the scenes, thanklessly, often to be disregarded by the cast in the wings. However, it is these guys that are the heart and soul of a team. Actors have one job- to do their character well. The tech team always have the whole cast, and … Continue reading The importance of your Backstage Tech Crew

Why Community Theatre Matters

Last night I sat listening to the audience of a packed community theatre. People laughed at the jokes, but to themselves. Then we had the intermission, with tea and chocolate biscuits. This audience stood around chatting, and sharing a snack, becoming a community. In the second half the laughter was full force, out loud and happy. Why the change? Well, before the intermission, the audience … Continue reading Why Community Theatre Matters

Roger Hall’s “Book Ends”

Earlier this year I agreed to direct Roger Hall’s “Book Ends” for the Greytown Little Theatre.  Why this play?  I am still not sure what drew me to it, partly I think the challenge of dealing with older gentlemen, as generally I spend my days with the young. I have had a ball working with these lovely chaps over the last few months, but it … Continue reading Roger Hall’s “Book Ends”