What has your journey with Forest Forge been so far?
I joined Youth Theatre when I was 7, which would have been probably 2007, maybe 2006, then worked my way right through to the eldest group. Then I joined the Young Company, which is the artist development programme at Forest Forge for over 18’s.
Alongside this I started working at the BIC and the Pavilion as a House Technician, and Forest Forge gave me opportunities to design and run the lights for their performances. Through doing that I got more involved with assisting and shadowing Lucy on Youth Theatre shows- learning what it takes to be a facilitator and trying my hand at running sessions.
In the last year and a half I took the leap and became a freelancer for Forest Forge, running the drama clubs for ages 7-12 on a Saturday, and two adults with learning disability groups.
Can you tell me a little bit about what you’ve been up to recently?
I have been working on the Christmas show ‘A Christmas Carol’, shadowing the director, Lucy, as her ‘creative assistant’ – sort of like an Assistant Director role. I’m there to run lines if anyone needs it, offering a hand in the room, making cups of tea, and looking after people general!
How did you get involved with this opportunity?
I heard about it through the Furnace, which is Forest Forges artist development network. I saw it advertised and went for it- I thought it was such a great opportunity I couldn’t miss it.
How has been part of this opportunity helped your professional career as a theatre maker?
It’s been a gentle wake-up call! I think it’s reinforced that there’s so much to learn, and a reminder of the standard that you have to operate at to make a really good professional show.
You’ve got 5 theatre professionals in a room, and each of them bring something different to the table. It’s so cool to watch them work and see how good they are at what they do- watching them in their element is incredible.
So what’s next for you and your career?
I don’t know!
I’m keen to continue broadening who I work with and expanding my skillset. I’d like to get more exposure to the professional world where people have got 20, or even 50 years of experience to learn from. Maybe I’d even like to try the performing side of things?!
Great. Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
No, I’d just like to thank you for the opportunity.
This Artist Development opportunity was made possible by funding from Arts Council England.