10 Questions from Feel More - Jack Albert Cook

In the run up to the launch of Feel and Feel More we’re spending some quality time with our brilliant cast and creative team. We threw our ten challenging questions at Feel More writer Jack Albert Cook who brings us a bit closer to his piece “Luke” performed by Ben Fensome

1. Introduce yourself and tell us a bit about you.
   My name is Jack Albert Cook and I am one of the writers for Feel More! I’m a born a raised Geordie, but for some reason the accent has evaded me (most people think I’m Welsh). I have been writing for about 4 years now, having done a BA in Drama and a MA in Scriptwriting at Bath Spa. I moved to London just over a year ago and have had the best time so far!

2. How do you feel today?
   You know what, I thought I’d be hungover, but I actually fresh as a daisy. So I’m in a great mood!

3. Tell us a bit about your character in “Feel More”
   My character is a bit of weirdo, but weird people are the best. He’s warm, funny and emotional as heck. He’s bloody brave as well.

4. What’s the best thing you’ve seen at the theatre and why?
   Oh god…it is probably a toss-up between The Inheritance and Callisto: A Queer Epic. Both made me ugly cry, but in the best way. The Inheritance blew me away, especially the writing. I still don’t understand how Matthew Lopez wrote that. Callisto was so beautifully acted and captured so much emotion and heart in it. The last scene absolutely broke me and brought me back to life all at once.

5. If you could be any sort of biscuit what would it be?
   Ringtons Ginger Snap. Hands down.

6. What are your 3 favourite songs and why?

   “Pure Shores” by All Saints…epic ethereal gold.

   “All Fired Up” by Matt Corby…I want this to be my first dance song at my wedding to my non-existent partner.

   “How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful” by Florence and the Machine…blew my mind when I first heard it and it still has the same effect now (the brass section at the end is actual brilliance).

7. Do you have any pre-show superstitions or rituals?
   Because I’m a writer, the fear of seeing my work on stage for the first time is a lot, so a large glass of wine is probably my pre-show ritual.

8. What would the title of your autobiography be?

   Memoirs of a Gay-Sha: Jack Cook’s Journey, I’M STILL HERE.

9. What do you like most about the world of Feel / Feel More and why do think people should buy a ticket?

   It’s real, it’s everyone and there is something in it for every person who sees it to relate to. It’s shattering and funny and full to the brim with heart. I think it shows people that they’re not alone in a way too. It’s like watching the world being reflected back at you.

10. Tell us something surprising about you that people might not know.

    When I was 17, I came ridiculously close to legally putting ‘Gatsby’ in my name because I loved the book so much. Thank god I didn’t.

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Jack is the writer of “Luke” in “Feel More” which is directed by Jess Barton and performed at The Space, London this February. Tickets are on Sale Now. We’re still working on a way to insert “Pure Shores” onto the “Feel” Spotify playlist. (Jack’s still trying to work out which of the Appleton sisters he’s going to be) You can follow Jack on Twitter @JackAlbertCook

Proforca Theatre Company is a fringe theatre company based in London. You can find us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ProforcaTheatre. Tickets for “Feel” and “Feel More” with its new prequel “Before Feel” are on sale now from space.org.uk

10 Questions from Feel More - Ben Fensome

In the run up to the launch of Feel and Feel More we’re spending some time with our brilliant cast and creative team. Next up is the very talented Ben Fensome who chats to us about his role as “Luke” in Feel More in a great new piece written by Jack Albert Cook.

1. Describe yourself in Five Words
   I am tall and messy.

2. How do you feel today? ·      
   Good thanks! I’m very much looking forward to reading the monologue Jack Albert Cook is writing for me.

3. What actor do you most admire and why?
   Got to be Meryl. I wrote a whole blog once watching all her films and still not bored.

4. If you could play any role that you haven’t played so far, what would it be and why?
   I’d be positively terrible at it, but I’d love a crack at Coriolanus. Something about that hot-headed, hyper-masculine, proud, soldier thing that is completely alien to me I’d like to explore.

5. What’s the best thing about living in London?
   World class West End theatre, if that’s too expensive tonnes of excellent fringe theatre, if that’s too expensive, plenty of amazing free galleries/culture to take advantage of.

6. What scares and excites you most about acting?
   I’m mostly scared of not being able to (for whatever reason) tell a character’s story believably. Most excited by those rare transcendent moments where everything seems to align, and you really feel in sync with the character, the other performers and the audience.

7. What’s been the most challenging thing you’ve ever done on stage?
   I co-wrote a play with a friend from drama school in which we played a couple from the age of 21, every seven years (the title incidentally), up to when they are 86. Ageing a character through a very subtle physicality was a huge challenge and surprisingly was a lot more of an emotional process to both ourselves and the audience than we first realised, but it proved to be an extremely rewarding experience.

8. What’s your favourite line from any piece of theatre?
   It scares me how much I relate to: “I will do such things - what they are yet I know not - but they shall be the terrors of the earth!” from King Lear on a daily basis.

9. ·What do you like most about the world of Feel / Feel More and why do think people should buy a ticket?
   For Feel More I love the idea of taking little snapshots at a group of disparate people and what it will reveal about life in London at this fairly tumultuous time whilst also being funny.

10. Tell us something surprising about you that people might not know.

    A couple years ago I did my Grade 2 piano exam (alongside all the 7 year olds) and plan this year to do my Grade 3.

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Ben is an actor and writer based in London and plays “Luke” in “Feel More” written by Jack Albert Cook. we’re lining him him up for a super masculine starring role in a future production of Coriolanus. Find out more about Luke and a night to remember by buying tickets for Feel More on sale now. You can follow Ben on Twitter "@BenFensome

Proforca Theatre Company are a theatre company based in London. You can find out more about the world of Feel by James Lewis by visiting our website or following us on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram @ProforcaTheatre

10 Questions from Feel More - Kelly Gray

In the run up to the launch of Feel and Feel More we’re spending some time with our brilliant cast and creative team. Next up is our brilliantly bubbly Kelly Gray who chats to us about Feel More and her brand new character (inspired by ABBA no less!) Elise - written by one of our brand new writers Paul Bradshaw!

1. Describe yourself in Five Words
   Positive, Persistent, Loud, Impatient & fun!

2. How do you feel today?
   Exhausted but excited!- i’m currently in panto with just 1 week to go and Santas coming!!

3. What actor do you most admire and why?
   The one actor that I’ve always looked up to and who was actually the reason I wanted to act is Goldie Hawn. I think she is amazing- hilarious, beautiful and talented. I also love how family orientated she seems to be.

4. If you could be any sort of biscuit what would it be?
   I would be a hobnob, because they are slightly old fashioned, a bit nutty, sweet, a sucker for coffee and people are always pleased to see them.

5. What three things would you take to a desert island with you?
   A big lilo, music and gin

6. What would the title of your autobiography be?
   “Following My Dreams (and other bad life choices)”

7. What’s been the most embarrassing thing that’s happened to you on stage?
   I once had an incredibly quick change and when I ran on for my next number my dress was tucked in my knickers- I didn’t realise for the whole song!

8. What’s your favourite line from any piece of theatre?
   “Is like what Ginger Rogers said to Fred Astaire… Anything you can do, I can do better… and in heels!”~ La Cage Aux Folles.

9. What do you like most about the world of Feel / Feel More and why do think people should buy a ticket?
   I absolutely love the idea of Feel/Feel more, everyone has things going on in their lives but we don’t ever look at the stranger on the tube opposite and realise what struggles they are going through. If something terrible happens to us we automatically think the world has stopped but it hasn’t, people carry on with their lives and the earth carries on turning. Feel/Feel more really makes you think and for me any piece of theatre that is thought provoking is worth seeing.

10. Tell us something surprising about you that people might not know.
    I have the biggest phobia of Orca whales, its so bad I’ve never been able to watch “Free Willy” without shaking with fear!

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Kelly plays “Elise” in “Feel More” at The Space this February. Tickets for “Feel” and “Feel More” are on sale now from www.proforca.co.uk/boxoffice. We’ll make sure that Kelly has a “whale” of a time in rehearsals.

You can find Kelly on Twitter @Kelsmgray and you can also follow Proforca Theatre Company on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ProforcaTheatre. Check out more from the world of “Feel” and “Feel More” as well as our new prequel “Before Feel” at www.proforca.co.uk

Proforca Blog - Alex Knott, Writer - "Feel More"

In the run up to our February 2019 productions of #ProforcaFeel and #FeelMore we threw open the doors of the Proforca Blog to our new collaborators, writers and Production Team. Taking over the blog for a look at crafting a “Feel More” monologue is the brilliant Alex Knott!

It was the middle of last summer, at the height of the Edinburgh Fringe, when David first mentions Brenda to me. 

(Get me, sounds like I’m writing Breakfast at Tiffany’s).

Me, a little bleary eyed, more than a little exhausted and running on fumes, the manic flyering energy that most Fringe participants generate and the Underbelly gin. David, looking far more composed, with a cup of tea in front of him that I will later discover seems to materialise literally wherever he goes.

 David is explaining the idea behind the ‘Feel’ universe.  - “It’s like the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but for theatre”.

This idea of an interconnected world, or maybe, better, one interconnected story, all branching off from James Lewis’ initial play, seems like it provides an almost endless supply of opportunities to the writers involved. The idea of the basis of the project being on a tube platform is immediately intriguing. 

This is a project about the way we live now, about our generation, about how Millennials fail to connect with one another. It is, certainly a play for now, and is added more irony and poignancy by the fact that ‘Feel’ is set in the run up to the EU referendum. Now, in the wake of that decision, and with so many of the most crucial decisions teetering on the edge, that play is going to feel like something of a harrowing warning. A warning that, possibly, we’re far too late to heed.

“There’s any number of strands in the play that writers could pick up on. Stories that could be told.”

Possibilities.

“There’s a woman at the station. She’s never seen, only mentioned. Brenda from UKIP.”

That’s the only mention of Brenda that day. For now. 

Jump forward to a morning in mid-November, on the first day of the projects. Both projects. This is where the teams behind ‘Feel’ and ‘Feel More’ (the series of stories from the world of Feel, all written by new playwrights) will meet and hear the play out loud for the first time. I mention to David that with our names laid out on cards, in front of our allocated chairs, it feels like we’re making Broadchurch. 

That’s not a bad shout, to be honest, as there is something televisual in the style, the energy of the play. It wouldn’t make a bad TV series. Or radio play. This is where the possibilities are endless. Stories could continue to populate this world. A whole world of disconnected Londoners. Born and bred Londoners, or those who simply find themselves in this city for better of worse. The opportunity to tell a thousand lonely stories. There isn’t a clear endpoint for a project like that.

By this point, David has asked me to pick up the story of the woman from UKIP. I didn’t want to write a monologue criticising the Leave campaign, or trying to get cheap laughs at UKIP’s expense. That would be the simplest option. Instead, I want to try and tell a story that makes you feel for Brenda. Maybe for just a handful of minutes, you can see her side.

“The most important thing is that the monologues are relatable, and that these are people we’d like to spend time with.”

David throws me a look.

“Except Brenda from UKIP.”

Challenge accepted, David. I think to myself.

Now a few weeks down the line, and some words have been written. They’ve yet to be edited, but the page isn’t blank any more. I’ve tried to give Brenda a voice that she’d be proud of.

I don’t believe that theatre is a soapbox; it isn’t there to shout politics at an audience through a loudhailer – so you’ll have to buy a ticket to see what a coconut shy and game show prizes might have to do with Brexit or UKIP. 

The words are going to be spoken by Demelza O’Sullivan. There’s a date in the diary. The show is going on. From that initial conversation in Edinburgh, the woman at the train station has some words to speak. Soon it’ll be out of my hands, and into Demelza’s, to discover if she has a voice.

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Alex Knott is a Director, Actor and Writer who lives in London. When he’s not wondering where all the tea is coming from he is a writer and director with Bag of Beard and Boxless Theatre. You can follow Alex on Twitter @AlexKnott95

Proforca Theatre Company are a fringe theatre company based in London - our productions of “Feel” and “Feel More” head to The Space, London from Feb 5th to 17th 2019. Tickets for all performances are on sale NOW. For more information follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ProforcaTheatre #TeamFeel.

10 Questions from Feel More - Demelza O'Sullivan

Brenda lives! In the run up to the launch of Feel and Feel More we’re spending time with our brilliant cast and creative team. First up (and repping for the Midlands!) We have the brilliant Demelza O’Sullivan who features as “Brenda” in “Feel More” by the equally brilliant Alexander Knott. Find out about Demelza right here!

1. Describe yourself in Five Words
   Shy, strong-willed, clumsy, daft, generous…

2. How would those that know you best describe you?

   I actually think I’m quite an introvert but my friends always describe me as ‘bonkers’ (I can’t think why!) It’s probably because I’m always up for a laugh and will try pretty much anything once. I am also a risk taker and try to live by the motto ‘To live in fear is not to live at all’ as Corey Feldman once said in the classic 80’s film ‘License to Drive.’ I do have a problem with starting conversations with people I don’t know though as I am a bit socially awkward.

3. What actor do you most admire and why?

   I love Emma Thompson. Not only is she an amazing actress but I was also very lucky to meet her recently. She was so charming and friendly; she spoke to every single person in the room and made everyone feel really important. She’s also has the most amazing skin!

4. What’s the best thing you’ve seen at the theatre and why?

   I go to the theatre a lot but I recently saw ‘The Lieutenant of Inishmore’ by Martin McDonagh at the Noel Coward theatre and it was brilliant. It has been my favourite play since I read it at college and I’ve always wanted to see it on stage. It was the funniest thing I’ve seen in a very long time, so much funnier than when I read the script to myself as I can’t do the Irish accent. The acting from all of the actors was superb but it did have a very handsome actor in the lead role…

5. If you could play any theatre role yet you haven’t, what would it be and why?

   I love musicals; I grew up watching them because my mom was a big fan. I never really get to play happy, funny characters so I would love to play Dolly in ‘Hello Dolly.’ I’m not musical theatre trained so would probably get booed off the stage but the character of Dolly is just so scheming and hilarious. I love Barbara Streisand and the film version is one of my favourite films. I remember watching it over and over as a child. It’s the film that made me want to act. 

6. What scares and excites you most about acting?

   The most exciting thing about acting is the uncertainty of it all. You never know what role you are going to play next and it’s so much fun getting to meet new people all of the time. I love theatre because of the adrenalin rush you get before each performance – there’s nothing else like it. The scariest thing is also the uncertainty of it all! The continual search for work and not knowing whether you are going to be able to afford to pay the rent next month is difficult.

7. What’s been the most challenging thing you’ve done on stage?

   I recently played the character of ‘Maggie’ in Anna Jordan’s ‘Yen’ which was an amazing but challenging role to play. She is a diabetic, alcoholic mother who leaves her young sons on their own in a flat to fend for themselves. It was a physically and emotionally demanding role in which I had to swear a lot and also smoke for the first time ever. I learned a few new words! I also set fire to my eyelashes but I don’t really talk about that part…

8.  If you could swap lives with anyone for the day who would it be and why?

   I would like to swap lives for a day with Eleanor Tomlinson who plays the character of ‘Demelza’ in BBC’s Poldark. Obviously this is because my name is Demelza and not for any other reason, DEFINITELY not because Aidan Turner plays Ross Poldark…ahem…moving swiftly on!

9. What do you like most about the world of Feel / Feel More and why do think people should buy a ticket?

   I love how Feel / Feel More tell stories that are relevant to today’s society. Sometimes the themes are ones that we don’t often talk about, like loneliness or depression, but people are out there feeling these things and their stories need to be told. There are also heartwarming stories to be heard about love and happiness. I love how the writers create characters that the audience can relate to and empathise with. You really do find yourself getting drawn in to their worlds. There is something there for everyone and that’s what drew me to the project. If I wasn’t in it, I would definitely be watching it so get a ticket before they sell out!

10. Tell us something about you which people might not know…
    I am one of twelve children!

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When she’s not setting fire to her eyelashes outside Aidan Turner’s dressing room in the hope that he’ll make better wife choices in the future, you can catch the brilliant Demelza as “Brenda” in “Feel More” at The Space this February. Tickets for “Feel” and “Feel More” are on sale now from www.proforca.co.uk/boxoffice.

You can find Demelza on Twitter @DemelzaO and you can also follow Proforca Theatre Company on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ProforcaTheatre. Our web address is www.proforca.co.uk

Director's Blog - Unboxing Reading Gaol

I miss the postman, most of the time, so I’ve never really noticed what a keen interest he’s been taking in my mail. Until I met him this morning and he told me that I had the most exciting post on his round. If only he knew the amount of theatrical nonsense he delivered and I’d managed to accumulate over the last three years. I wonder if he knows that behind my front door was Lady Bracknell’s handbag, almost the whole of Saucy Jack’s bar (complete with Glitter Boots) and one very expensive customised small stage box from the first version of Reading Gaol. Our postman is only one small part of helping to create the worlds we’ve put together the last three years, and that little stage box is about to head to a much bigger stage than the last time we saw it, alongside today’s package, with lord alone knows what’s inside.

So what’s it all about? Well, the marketing describes Reading Gaol as a “remix” of Oscar Wilde’s classic “Ballad of Reading Gaol” with five new pieces of writing and storytelling with some physical theatre thrown in for good measure. We use the original work by Wilde as a “framing” mechanism to tell the stories of five prisoners each with their own voices and personalities. You’ll find out more about them and their stories in the weeks to come – and I’m sure some of them will pop up here in the next few weeks.

Reading Gaol is really a darker, more unexplored version of Oscar Wilde’s story. We’re all familiar with the lighter, more comedic elements of his work, but the end of his life was altogether a darker affair. From respected society figure to dying in poverty and disgrace, the end of his life was as far removed from the sparkling and witty figure we’d all prefer to remember him as. We’re choosing in this version to use Wilde’s story as in inspiration, a look into one man’s darkest hour as a parallel with Wilde’s own story (but with our usual twist on proceedings – so expect a more “modern” and fresh version of the show than we staged last year.)

For this new version of the show, we’ve gone back and revised some of the staging a little bit, (we’ve got more space to play with, for a start) and we’re going to be looking at using some of the more practical elements offered by Theatre N16 in its brilliant, brand new space at Styx in Tottenham. We’re going to really bring home that brutal sense of incarceration for the audience and push our actors a little bit more than in the previous production, so if you saw the production before, you’ll definitely be seeing something new and interesting in this new version. The brilliant thing about Reading Gaol last time was the fact that it made people talk in the pub afterwards, and we hope that this will be the same this time. One of the things I love about my job is sitting in the audience watching people’s reaction during the show, and I’m excited to see what you make of this brand-new version of the show.

We’ve got a brilliant cast for this version of the production, and we’re delighted to be introducing some new performers to our growing family. I’m really looking forward to spending time with them and seeing what they bring to Monster, Guardian, Human, Innocent and Hero. We have five really strong pieces of writing from Cat, Simon, Erin and James and it’s also a dream to welcome back Harriet Lambert and Erin Read to Team “Triple Threat” and produce a bigger, more exciting version of one of our first true collaborations together.

So, look out for updates from us in the weeks to come. We’ve got a load of plans for some blogs, lots of behind the scenes stuff and more content as we chart our journey back into the dark, and I really hope to meet some of you either in the run up to the show or in the bar afterwards. Grab your tickets while you can, this one is going to be special.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got five prisoner’s uniforms and five mail sacks to unpack. I wouldn’t want the postman to think I was ignoring him, would I?

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David is Artistic Director of Proforca Theatre Company and director of Reading Gaol (2018). You can find follow him on Twitter and Instagram @DavidBrady83. Reading Gaol is adapted from "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" by Oscar Wilde and features new material by Catrin Keeler, Simon Marshall, James Lewis and Erin Read. Associate Directors Harriet Lambert and Erin Read.  

Reading Gaol is performed at Theatre N16 Monday 23 July - Thursday 2nd August 2018. Tickets are on sale NOW from www.proforca.co.uk/box office. Use discount code "Early10" for 10% off your tickets. You can follow Proforca Theatre Company on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @proforcatheatre and via our website at www.proforca.co.uk 

10 Questions from Feel / More with Kieran Faulkner

We sat down with some of our brilliant cast and crew prior to our production of "Feel / More" which returns to the King's Head Theatre next week! We'd love to take this opportunity to introduce you to Kieran Faulkner who features as "Charlie" in a piece by the writer of "Feel" James Lewis. We sat down and gave him our "10 Question Challenge" and here's what he had to say for himself! 

1) Describe yourself in 5 words
Actor, gig lover, professional sleeper

2) Tell us a bit about your character and what you like most about them?
Charlie is a regular guy who has an average 9-5 life and never does anything particularly strange. When he considers doing something completely out of the ordinary it makes him reconsider everything. He's great at looking at the bigger picture and evaluating things fairly which I like. He's also quite cheeky which I really like. 

3) What is it that you like most about Feel / More and why do you think people should buy a ticket?
Sometimes an evening of monologues has the potential to be a mixed bag but I think Feel / More works with every single one. What I like most is the warmth and honesty of each speech. It shows through in absolute spades in the way that good writing should. If you buy a ticket you won't be disappointed. 

4) What's your favourite theatre production and why?
That's a toughie. It's very hard to pick just one. Straight play would probably be Angels in America. The revival at the national last year blew my mind. Musical would have to be Les Mis, its something I performed in youth theatre several times and I have a very personal connection to it

5) If you could play only one more role for the rest of your life what would it be and why?
If I could play Bottom from "A Midsummer Nights Dream" forever and ever I would be very happy. Its just so utterly silly and amazingly fun to play, plus you get to wear a cute pair of donkey ears which is a bonus. I'd love to do it again if not forever

6) Whats the best piece of direction you've been given?
One piece of direction that stands out was when I was told to be "more like Hugh grant" during an audition. I didn't get the part so obviously I need to rewatch Notting Hill

7) Which actor do you admire and why?
Once again too many to name. If pushed I'd say Ian McKellen. To do this for that long and to be that consistently good for that whole length of time is something I could only aspire to. That and I really wanna play Magneto...

8) What would the title of your autobiography be? 
"Playing Pretend" (Plus at least 200 pages would be dedicated to useless advice like surviving moshpits, how to get the best out of a Tesco meal deal etc...

9) If you could be any sort of biscuit, what sort of biscuit would you be? 
Those chocolate ones with the wrapping you get in selection boxes. Once you get rid of the awkward fiddly wrapping there's something really nice on the inside

10) Tell us something about you which we might not already know?
I once worked security for the Royal Family. It was at Royal ascot. Somebody bought me a gin and tonic. That was the only good part of the day.

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Kieran is an actor from London and takes on the role of "Charlie" in Feel / More written by James Lewis on June 10 / 11. When he's not wanting to be one of the X Men you can also catch him in Sweeney Todd this summer in Edinburgh. You can follow Kieran on Twitter @KEFaulkner93. You can also follow Proforca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ProforcaTheatre and via our website at www.proforca.co.uk. 

10 Questions from Feel / More - Malcolm Jeffries

We sat down with some of our brilliant cast and crew prior to our production of "Feel / More" which returns to the King's Head Theatre next week! We'd love to take this opportunity to introduce you to Malcom Jeffries who features as "Angelo" in a piece by the very talented Simon Marshall and asked him some leading questions about his role, his life as an actor, and some random wildcards to see how he'd cope with some tough questioning!

1) How would your friends introduce you? 
He’s alright when you get to know him . 

2) Tell us a bit about your character and what you like most about them?
Angelo is a lovely guy. A little disconnected from the world being the son of an immigrant. With the result being he’s nor quite sure where he fits in. But despite this fact, even because of it he longs to connect with people. His job as an Uber driver means he can indulge his love of life and people and life a little of their lives. 

3) What is it that you like most about Feel / More and why do you think people should buy a ticket?
In this modern connected world we are in fact more distant and disconnected from each other. Feel/More paints these individuals who are a little lost in some way. These stories illustrate that we all just want to be noticed. To belong. To love and be loved. 

4) If you could play any role yet that you haven’t what would it be and why?
Tough question. I’m a big Beckett fan so any character in one of his play. Also Richard III would be wonderful to play. 

5) What's the best piece of advice you've been given?
Be simple. 

6) If you could swap lives with someone for the day who would it be and why?
I wouldn’t swap my life. I’m doing exactly what I want.

7) What scares you and excites you most about acting?
I’m not sure I ever feel scared by acting. When I played Macbeth I do remember thinking I could never do it. It’s such a big role. It’s such a lot of lines. I do remember on numerous occasions I was going to call the director and tell him I just wasn’t up to it and had to pull out. But then I always thought if it scared me that much I should do it just to overcome. Just to prove it wasn’t that scary. 

As far as excited me. Well, I just love the fear of getting up with the text. Working with other actors and directors. For me it’s truly a team effort. I love making mistakes. They teach you so much. But it having the courage to try and knowing that failure is nothing wrong. My favourite Beckett quote is ‘Try again. Fail again. Fail better’. 

8) What's the most challenging thing you've done on stage that you're most proud of?
Macbeth was a massive challenge and supremely enjoyable. But to be honest I’m so proud of my work with Angelo in Feel/More. I mean that honestly. I was so very lucky to have the part written for me by the fantastic playwright Simon Marshall. Plus the creative duo of Erin Read directing and David Brady as artistic director ensured that the character and the production really shone  

9) If you were president for a day, what three laws would you enact? 
Ban nuclear weapons. Unlimited funding for the NHS. Make crisps free for all

10) What three luxury items would you take to a desert island? 
A clockwork/solar powered radio

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Malcolm is an actor from London and originates the role of "Angelo" in Feel / More written by Simon Marshall on June 10 / 11. He f**king loves crisps. You can follow Malcolm on Twitter @malcolmjeffries. You can also follow Proforca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ProforcaTheatre and via our website at www.proforca.co.uk. 

Malcolm also features as "Guardian" in Reading Gaol July 23rd - August 2nd at TheatreN16 - for more information on that production visit www.proforca.co.uk/ReadingGaol2. Tickets are available now and can be found at our website at www.proforca.co.uk/boxoffice 

Director's Blog - All The Feels

In the run up to our March production of "Feel" and "Feel More" Proforca Artistic Director David Brady takes us behind the scenes and into the rehearsal room for "Feel" written by James Lewis and "Feel More" directed by Erin Read.

Hello - been a while since I wrote one of these and hopefully I'm not too out of practice. Its been a busy few months for all of us at Proforca Towers and its great to be back in the rehearsal room putting together a piece of work again. 

Sometimes there's a project which really captures your imagination and drives you forward, and there's a real sense of excitement in the air, and I think for all of us "Feel" and "Feel More" have captured a mood, (or a feeling, if you like) of something special and that air of anticipation definitely seems to be spreading. 

We're full speed with rehearsals - which is always an exciting time as the work changes and evolves and you get to see new things in the piece which you didn't see before. You 'll have to find out what the potatoes are all about, what exactly happened on December 21st and who is Brenda from UKIP anyway and why is she so awful? Our brilliant actors bring these complex people to life and they're a joy to watch and direct. Aside from some brilliant acting we've stood on Lanzarote, built toys out of Kinder Eggs, worked out who can keep a Malteaser in the air the longest and also discussed the merits of stage pants. Happy Times and Places. 

In fact, I can't praise enough our Fab Four - Gemma, Izzy, James and Jonny - not only are they a joy to have in the rehearsal room but they are seriously talented actors. From broad comedy to heartbreaking introspection - they've really got it all between them and their hard work, dedication and enthusiasm in the rehearsal space makes it a joy to work with them. First they'll make you laugh, then they'll make you fall in love with them, and then they'll break your heart. (Bring your tissues!)   

Feel tells the story of four people looking for something, or someone to make them complete. Set in the tumultuous 6 weeks at the start of a relationship, the story takes an emotionally charged look at how the start of something new can challenge your perceptions and what you want from your life, and how you deal with the fact that time isn't necessarily always on your side. (whether that's waiting for a train that never comes or how the universe possibly has a plan up its sleeve for you that you weren't quite expecting)  

One of the joys of the rehearsal process for Feel has been to look at the naturalistic dialogue of the script and see what small nuances we can draw out in each of the characters. Small moments and movements betray what each of the characters are thinking and decisions that they make. Sometimes what the characters don't say is almost as important as what they do, and we hope we're telling a story that will resonate with everyone. The cast have created some really special moments, and i can't wait for you to see them. 

You may have seen that we've also got our fantastic spin-off "Feel More" - which is directed by the super talented Erin Read. It's been brilliant to see these interconnected stories which draw from some of the things we touch on in "Feel" come to life. Not to give too much away, but we've been able to create a little bit of an "expanded universe" so some of the plotlines and themes of "Feel" come to life. Whilst you don't need to see both shows for either to make sense, its been really fun to see how Tom, Jackie, Charlie, Jess, Mona, and Angelo fit into the world of "Feel" - (and its as good as anything that big old Marvel Universe have thrown out there, trust me...)

So hopefully you'll be able to grab a ticket and see these brilliant folk at work telling a story we're very fond of. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to blow up an inflatable double bed. See you at the end of March! 

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David Brady is the Artistic Director of Proforca Theatre Company and the Director of "Feel" at the Lion and Unicorn Theatre in Kentish Town from March 21-31 and Executive Producer of "Feel More" which is performed March 26 and 27.  Tickets on sale now for all performances from www.proforca.co.uk/boxoffice

You can follow David on Instagram @DavidBrady83 and Proforca Theatre on Twitter, Skype and Instagram @ProforcaTheatre. Proforca's web address is www.proforca.co.uk 

Erin Read - Associate Director

In the run up to rehearsals starting for our March 2018 production of "Feel" - we're taking the opportunity to introduce you to our brand new cast and production team. Erin Read is an actress, one of Proforca's Associate Directors, and the Director of "Feel+ (Feel More) .  

Erin moved to London to pursue a career in acting and to begin studying drama at Queen Mary University of London. Roles include the short films 'Unforgettable', 'Performance' ‘The Straggler’ and the award winning ‘Extra Time’ (2015).

Her passion for acting music, singing and dancing has led her to explore every part of the theatre.  In 2015, she was the Assistant Musical Director for ‘The King and I’ (The Riverhead Theatre) and ‘Oliver’ (The Embassy Theatre) and she assisted with the singing coaching and acted in productions of ‘Fame’ and ‘Footloose’ (2011 & 2012 respectively) at The Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent.

For Proforca Theatre Company, Erin was Musical Director / Assistant Director for "Saucy Jack & The Space Vixens" (Nov 2016) and Producer for the workshop productions of "Feel" (2017) and Producer for "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" (Nov 2017). Her acting roles also include “Cecily” in our production of “The Importance of Being Earnest” (Sept 2017). Erin is Proforca's first Associate Director.

Twitter: @eoread7

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Proforca Theatre Company is a non-professional fringe theatre company, based in London. For more information and tickets, visit our website at www.proforca.co.uk. You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @ProforcaTheatre and find out more information about us and our past performances. 

PLEASE NOTE: FEEL IS BEING PERFORMED ON SELECTED DATES AS PART OF THE "FEEL / FEEL+" PERFORMANCE CYCLE. FOR SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE DATES PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE. 

Tickets for all performances go on sale in January 2018. 

"Feel" - (March 2018) - David Brady (Director / Executive Producer)

In the run up to rehearsals starting for our March 2018 production of "Feel" - we're taking the opportunity to introduce you to our brand new cast and production team. "Feel" is directed by Proforca's Artistic Director David Brady who also acts as Executive Producer for "Feel+" (Feel More).  David is responsible for overseeing the programming, direction and day-to-day management for Proforca's creative projects and is one of our Founding Members.  

For Proforça, credits include "If I Go" - May 2016, (Director / Executive Producer) "Saucy Jack & the Space Vixens" - Nov 2016 (Director / Executive Producer), "The Importance of Being Earnest" and "Reading Gaol for our "Project Wilde" series of productions in Autumn 2017. (Director / Executive Producer)  David was also the Director for the early workshop versions of "Feel" (Director / Executive Producer). 

Also, David is the writer and producer of a number of charity concerts and the Writer / Director of the Pantomimes "Dick Whittington" "Cinderella" and "Aladdin" for corporate performance. 

David originally hails from Coventry in the West Midlands and has lived in London since 2004. He has traveled extensively. His primary career is in Project Management for Global Mobility. He spends a lot of time in a little black box watching actors perform and he says the best part of his job is Proforca giving opportunities to work with some amazing and talented people. 

Instagram: @proforca_david

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Proforca Theatre Company is a non-professional fringe theatre company, based in London. For more information and tickets, visit our website at www.proforca.co.uk. You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @ProforcaTheatre and find out more information about us and our past performances. 

PLEASE NOTE: FEEL IS BEING PERFORMED ON SELECTED DATES AS PART OF THE "FEEL / FEEL+" PERFORMANCE CYCLE. FOR SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE DATES PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE. 

Tickets for all performances go on sale in January 2018. 

Feel - (March 2018) - CAST ANNOUNCED!

After a fantastic response to our call for auditions, we are thrilled and delighted to announce the cast for our March 2018 production of "Feel" and introduce you to our brand new Jamie, Naomi, Karen, and Nick! 

"Feel" is a brand new, modern day love story written by James Lewis which takes a detailed and intense look at the development of two relationships in their very early stages. It tells an emotional story about a search for fulfillment, second-hand love and the hope of one day becoming something better than you are. 

First up, Jamie is played by Jonathon Cooper - who we are delighted to welcome back to Proforca Theatre Company after his very well acclaimed role of "Innocent" in our production of "Reading Gaol." The role of Naomi will be played by Isobel Eadie who is a graduate of Oxford School of Drama. 

Nick will be played by Vincent Bowen, who is also returning to Proforca from his time in "Reading Gaol" where he played the role of "Monster." and fresh from a tour of "Pride and Prejudice" in China we are thrilled to welcome Gemma Wray to the company in the role of Karen. 

"Feel" is directed by Proforca's Artistic Director David Brady.  "I couldn't be happier to welcome Jonny, Isobel, Vincent and Gemma to the company for our March 2018 production of "Feel" - we've spent a lot of time working on and developing the characters and script which we're very proud of and close to and we're really pleased with the results of the casting and development process. I'm really looking forward to working with such a charming and creative bunch of actors in rehearsal and finally introducing the world to Jamie, Naomi, Karen and Nick at long last! 

Rehearsals for "Feel" commence in January 2018 and tickets for all performances go on sale in January. Look out for a proper introduction to each cast member and our cast and production team in the next few days! 

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Proforca Theatre Company is a non-professional fringe theatre company, based in London. For more information and tickets, visit our website at www.proforca.co.uk. You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @ProforcaTheatre and find out more information about us and our past performances. 

PLEASE NOTE: FEEL IS BEING PERFORMED ON SELECTED DATES AS PART OF THE "FEEL / FEEL+" PERFORMANCE CYCLE. FOR SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE DATES PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE. 

Coming March 2018 - "Feel"

We are delighted to announce our very exciting plans for our next production. Coming in March 2018 we are proud to present a brand new piece of original writing entitled "Feel" for a specially extended run of performances. 

“One day, maybe even tomorrow, and maybe only once, I want to wake up and feel it. Feel like today is the day when I'm not going to feel so bloody awful and alone all the time…”

Jamie and Naomi collide on a weekend that will cause them to question everything they ever thought they knew about themselves.

Nick meets Karen and their lives will never be the same again. 

In a world where love can be swiped on a whim and the path of your whole life is determined by the delay of just one train, is there ever the right time to say what you really feel? 

Proforça Theatre Company presents this new piece of writing making its debut in Spring 2018 about a search for fulfilment, second-hand love and the hope of one day becoming something better than you are.

Because sometimes, to follow your heart you have to give it away to someone else.

Feel is written by James Lewis, directed by David Brady and features original Music written for this production by Jason Baker. We are delighted to be returning to the Lion and Unicorn Theatre for this extended run following our 2017 productions of “The Importance of Being Earnest” and “Reading Gaol” Casting and further production team information will be announced in early December. 

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Proforca Theatre Company is a non-professional fringe theatre company, based in London. For more information and tickets, visit our website at www.proforca.co.uk. You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @ProforcaTheatre and find out more information about us and our past performances. 

PLEASE NOTE: FEEL IS BEING PERFORMED ON SELECTED DATES AS PART OF THE "FEEL / FEEL+" PERFORMANCE CYCLE. FOR SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE DATES PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE. 

Running Time : 110 Minutes Approx (15 Minute Interval) 
Contains strong language and adult themes. 

10 Questions from Reading Gaol - Jonathon Cooper

We sat down with some of our brilliant cast and crew prior to our production of "Reading Gaol" which starts next week! Next Up is Actor Jonathon Cooper who takes on the role of "Innocent" in the production, but not before he's tackled 10 of our very tough questions first! 

1) How would your friends introduce you?
Jonny.

2) Tell us a bit about your character and what you like most about them?
Innocent is a leaf caught up in a storm. As his name would suggest, he's not guilty of the crime he was accused of committing. But what's most heartbreaking about him is that he isn't sure whether he is ultimately responsible. It's a great depiction of how we can blame ourselves out of confusion or biased learned behaviour; Innocent is used to being trodden on.

3) What is it that you like most about Reading Gaol and why do you think people should buy a ticket?
It's taken aspects, characters and nuances from a fantastic poem and magnified them. They are all built to exist at opposite ends of the spectrum, socially and morally. But they all exist with one thing in common, and that is where the poem bridges the gaps between them. 

4) If you could play any role yet that you haven’t what would it be and why?
That's a tough one...I'm not sure I have a straight answer. I think what I say will probably be different month to month. I read Jack Thorne's rendition of Woyzeck recently, so right now that's my answer. Last month it was Judge Brack from Hedda Gabler. When I'm in the right age bracket, my ultimate role would be Iago. He's the villain that everyone gets behind - to succeed in winning over the audience...even when you're plotting against the title character...

5) What's the best piece of advice you've been given?
"Good acting is being confident enough to be private in public - so don't hide onstage."

6) If you could swap lives with someone for the day who would it be and why?
If it can be anyone: John Barton; 24 hours inside his head and Shakespeare would probably be a whole lot less intimidating. If they have to be alive: Sir Ian McKellen; self-explanatory really. Not for Magneto or Gandalf...they were great; but he is a titan of classical stage acting. 

7) What scares you and excites you most about acting?
In acting I get most scared about boring the audience, or losing my focus and becoming sloppy. I get excited about the exact opposite frankly; having an audience hooked and feeling absorbed in what you're telling them. Sorry, that sounds really fluffy, but it's true. For a few hours I can get lost in my imagination, and taking the audience with you is an incredible feeling.

8) What's the most challenging thing you've done on stage that you're most proud of?
Portraying the Creature in Nick Dear's Frankenstein. I've never done something so physically or emotionally demanding.

9) What would the title of your autobiography be?
I dunno...'The Adventures of a Chocoholic on Stage'..?

10) Tell us a random fact we may not know about you...
I was a world bronze medallist in the BUCS World Karate Championships in Slovakia when I was 20.

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Jonathon is an actor from London and plays the role of "Innocent" in "Reading Gaol" which starts this week. This is his first performance for Proforca Theatre Company. Don't ask him what's in the box because he doesn't know, honest. You can find out more about Jonathon from his Mandy Actors profile which you can find here. 

"Reading Gaol" is being performed on November 2nd - 4th 2017 at the Lion and Unicorn Theatre. Tickets are available now and can be found at our website at www.proforca.co.uk/boxoffice or via www.lionandunicorntheatre.co.uk

10 Questions from Reading Gaol - James Bowen

We sat down with some of our brilliant cast and crew prior to our production of "Reading Gaol" which starts next week! We'd love to take this opportunity to introduce you to James Bowen prior to taking on the role of the ever so slightly unhinged "Monster" and asked him some leading questions about his role, his life as an actor, and some random wildcards to see how he'd cope with some tough questioning!

1) How would your friends introduce you? Hopefully as James...

2) Tell us a bit about your character and what you like most about them?
"Monster" is an enigma of a human; what I enjoy most is his detachment from any emotional spectrum. I enjoy the  "psychopathic" role: the research I've done has brought these new, intuitive choices that are hopefully quite playful - finding new ways to upset an audience sounds wrong - but... 

3) What is it that you like most about Reading Gaol and why do you think people should buy a ticket?
I like the dual narratives: without giving too much away, the links between the poem and the stories being told are becoming more clear to me. I think the underlying message of the piece grows as the piece develops, rather than being "spoon fed" which I think is important. Audiences will connect in some way to the stories, though hopefully not mine so much.

4) If you could play any role yet that you haven’t what would it be and why?
Christopher in Curious Incident. I vividly remember reading the book in about 4 nights. Incredible writing which translated so well onto stage.

5) What's the best piece of advice you've been given?
Be Selfish. Not in a rude way(!) - more for self-preservation. 

6) If you could swap lives with someone for the day who would it be and why?
Gregory Porter or if he's too busy, Jez Butterworth - just to know how they do it?

7) What scares you and excites you most about acting?
Scares: Performing as a character that I find too much of myself in or being "lazy".
Excites: Holding an audience's attention - even for just a bit.

8) What's the most challenging thing you've done on stage that you're most proud of?
"We Had a Black Dog", definitely. To try and portray mental health and its effects on individuals and those around them is really f*cking hard. Being able to add a voice to that  conversation felt really empowering.  

9) If you were president for a day, what three laws would you enact? 
Destruction of all nuclear deterrents, a ban on all future presidents coming from an Entertainment background (boring is best), and monthly 'Attenborough' day. He might not be around much longer so it's important he knows he's loved...

10) What three luxury items would you take to a desert island? 
I am going for very pragmatic choices, hopefully. A flint, because I have not watched enough 'Bear Grylls'; a machete, and a recently - tuned piano.  

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James is an actor and lives in Egham, Surrey, and originates the role of "Monster" in Reading Gaol" this November. If he asks you to play Backgammon then you should probably be very, very scared.  You can follow James on Twitter @jvbowen1. You can also follow Proforca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ProforcaTheatre and via our website at www.proforca.co.uk. 

"Reading Gaol" is being performed on November 2nd - 4th 2017 at the Lion and Unicorn Theatre. Tickets are available now and can be found at our website at www.proforca.co.uk/boxoffice or via www.lionandunicorntheatre.co.uk

10 Questions from Reading Gaol - Myles Delahunty

We sat down with some of our brilliant cast and crew prior to our production of "Reading Gaol" this November. First up is Myles Delahunty prior to taking on the role of "Human" and asked him some leading questions about his role, his life as an actor, and some random wildcards to see how he'd cope with some tough questioning!

1) Introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about who you are. 
I am an Actor who has recently moved to London, i'm a huge film fan, and have recently acted in my first professional film role. I'm also a Singer and an Illustration artist and use a lot of my spare time painting all kinds of things. 

2) Describe your character in one sentence. 
He is a being who's happiness has been entirely stolen by Loss, and is continually haunted by his past. 

3) What is it that you like most about Reading Gaol and why do you think people should buy a ticket?
It's an entirely unique and game changing take on an Oscar Wilde poem, and it holds the lens up to the intricacies of Humanity and it allows you to see within the lives of these prisoners in a very intimate way. 

4) Which theatre people (performers or creatives) do you admire and why?
I admire the Theatre Actor Denise Gough, as she has strived toward her acting goals all of her life, even through incredibly tough times and relative poverty. She is an incredibly unique actor who sticks to her unique visions of a character, and creates performances that astound. 

5) What do you like most about working with Proforca? 
Proforca is an incredibly comforting and friendly environment for Actors and creatives alike, allowing freedom for artistic expression.

6) What's been the best piece of acting advice you've been given and why?
Be in the moment and let the characters personality, emotions etc channel through you. 

7) If you could be in any one piece of theatre what would it be?
'Romeo and Juliet' as Romeo 

8) Who would play you in the dramatic retelling of your life? 
Thats a tricky one, probably Chris Hemsworth. But thats probably because i want to be Chris Hemsworth.

9) if you could change something about living in London, what would it be?
I'd add more Trees.

10) If you weren't going to be an actor, what one other job would you like to do?
Marine Biology, working in the Bahamas. 

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Myles is an actor and artist from London. For Proforca he previously played "Lane / Merriman" in "The Importance of Being Earnest" and will take on the role of "Human" in "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" in November. Whatever you do, don't make off with his cucumber sandwiches.  Myles is represented by Allsorts Agency and you can find his details here. Follow Proforca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ProforcaTheatre and via our website at www.proforca.co.uk. 

"Reading Gaol" is being performed on November 2nd - 4th 2017 at the Lion and Unicorn Theatre. Tickets are available now and can be found at our website at www.proforca.co.uk/boxoffice or via www.lionandunicorntheatre.co.uk

An Earnest Q & A with Ross Kernahan

In the run up to our performances of "The Importance of Being Earnest" We sat down with some of our brilliant cast and crew. We sat down with Proforca Leading Man Ross Kernahan who has swapped his saxophone in space for a most wonderful Bunbury in the role of Algy in our production of Oscar Wilde's "The Importance of being Earnest"

Describe yourself in 5 words
Nonchalant, obsessive, patient, restless, contradictory, reckless.

Tell us a bit about your character and what you like most about them?
I suppose Algy’s lack of filter is what I most enjoy. He is a wonderful embodiment of the ‘Dandy’ of Wilde’s time: he doesn’t care what people think (or so he says) and combined with his wonderful control of language it allows him to come out with some outrageous, charming, witty and at times insightful philosophies for life; and that in turn is enormously in fun to play - I get to turn my filter off too.

What is it that you like most about Earnest and why do you think people should buy a ticket for this production?
It’s language. Wilde is a master of language, his ability to turn a phrase, to change a passing remark to something deeply cutting and witty, his hilarious and improbable situations which itself remark on the absurdities of his time and time indefinite. It’s a fantastic and fantastically wordy script which is a joy to read and perform - pair that with a relaxed theatre setting, a couple of drinks, and a few key Proforçatwists - what isn't to enjoy? 

What's your favourite theatre production and why?
Hard question. I couldn’t possibly say a favourite - but of all the styles out there I think I know the type of theatre I most enjoy. Visceral, antagonistic, unapologetic, over flavoured and over stylised if anything, willing to challenge peoples perception, sometimes uncomfortably and radically in order to start a dialogue. Work by writers and directors such as Martin Mcdonagh, Sarah Kane, Beckett etc. Weird, for lack of a better word I suppose. I’d prefer to watch something which is overt, seemingly impentirable and jarring in style or intention where true meaning is buried, needed to be clawed out. To that extend recent things I’ve seen I’d have to mention are ‘Woyzeck’ directed by Jack Thorne - the production elements were astounding, the chilling soundscape, beautiful lighting, stage tech and discreetly evolving set - also the re-working of the script was glorious and gave it new life for this modern age. Also for it’s sheer remorselessness I have a special place for ‘The Book of Mormon’. I’m not huge on musicals and I don’t want to spoil it but my god - go see it - and if you do go see it after reading this and absolutely hate it - tough. I suppose thats what I most love about it; it’s completely unashamed but with a smile.

If you could play only one more role for the rest of your life what would it be and why?
If I ever get to play a lead role in an RSC production or at the Globe Theatre I would die happy. Thats it - I’m done. I have a huge place in my heart for the Bard’s tales and would take a role from any one of them and perform it for the rest of my life. I don’t understand myself my own pull towards the Early Modern Period - perhaps because I specialised on the subject during my time at university - but I just love it. The language, the real humanity of the characters, the wondrous ideas of the supernatural and of course the importance it has on the course of Theatre future cannot be understated. If not a Shakespeare I’d have to take a role from Beckett - probably - and ironically - from ‘Endgame’. The nature of the play seems to lend itself to the idea of ‘eternity’ although I’d likely lose my mind before long.

Whats the best piece of direction you've been given?
It’s not actually direction, but advice given to me before an audition. It was many years ago in a group audition, the panel walks in and with them a man in a black leather duster, gambler hat, very cool looking, older, long white hair and donning these breathtaking crimson cowboy boots. Let’s just say it spoke to me. He says to us, in the clear yet worn tone - ‘right. Well, likelihood is some of you are nervous. Fine, but... forget it, it won't help you now. Stop thinking about it. Feel it. Don’t be afraid and breathe. Do your speech as you had done in your bathroom mirror last night. As you did when you mouthed it on the bus or repeated it as you were making dinner. I have a phrase I often say that apparently my students picked up on, and as a present they got me this lighter with it’s inscription.’ He produces a shiny brass zippo. ‘It simply says...”fuck it”, and that my friends is my advice to you.’’ Words to live by.

Which actor do you admire and why?
One of many I admire would be have to be the actor’s actor Lawrence Olivier. No surprise. His reputation and work in film, theatre, the impact he had on Shakespeare needs no introductions from me, but it is his work he did for the community - bringing theatre to the many - particularly through his work as the founding director of the National Theatre which i find inspiring. That is what I want to achieve at some point in my career, to change the norm of a divided. tough and often elitist industry, art form and essential part of culture. I often find myself staring at his statue outside the theatre on the Southbank. Go have a look.

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Ross is an actor from London. For Proforca he previously played "Sammy Sax" in "Saucy Jack and the Space Vixens." and will take on the role of "Wanderer" in "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" in November. His hair doesn't curl naturally, with our without the help of others.  Ross is represented by MacFarlane Chard and you can view his Mandy Actors profile here. Follow Proforca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ProforcaTheatre and via our website at www.proforca.co.uk. 

"The Importance of Being Earnest" is performed 27th - 30th September and "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" is on November 2nd - 4th 2017. Tickets for both shows in our "Project Wilde" series are available now and can be found at our website at www.proforca.co.uk/boxoffice or via www.lionandunicorntheatre.co.uk

An Earnest Q & A with Erin Read

In the run up to our performances of "The Importance of Being Earnest" We sat down with some of our brilliant cast and crew. We sat down and grilled Proforca Assistant Director and now our very own Cecily Cardew on life with Oscar, Weaponising tea and cake, and her other inspirations.

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself
I'm a 21 year old actress, dancer, singer and musician.  I am also currently in my last year at QMUL sudying Ba(Hons) Drama and working as a Publishing Assistant and an Usher - I like to keep myself busy!

2) Tell us a little bit about the character you play in "Earnest" 
I would describe Cecily as an intelligent and witty free-spirit who runs rings around the men in her life.

3) What do you like most about "Earnest" and why do you think people should buy a ticket? 
I think the best thing about Earnest, and about all of Wilde's work in fact, is how the language and characters' speech is so beautifully well crafted that even if you read it completely devoid of emotion you can't help but find the work funny.  So if you are looking for a hilarious show put on by a cast of incredible actors you should buy a ticket for our show!

4) Which actor / performer do you admire the most and why?   
Oh my goodness I wouldn't know where to start, there are so many performers I admire - I admire anyone who is lucky enough and driven enough to work in the job that they are most passionate about.

5) What's been your favourite Proforca moment so far? 
My favourite Proforca moment has to be when I got the phone call from David to invite a relative unknown (me) to be the Musical Director for their run of 'Saucy Jack and the Space Vixens'. (And the rest is history...)

6)  What's the best piece of advice you've been given?
Treat every rehearsal like a performance because that way you are putting enough energy into the rehearsals to really push yourself to be the best you can possibly be.

7) What show would you like to be in? 
I would love to be in 'Chicago' - I love the songs and really enjoy Fosse's jazz dance style!

8) If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be?
My dream holiday would be a round the world trip stopping off at all the famous historic ruins like Herculaneum and Pompeii in Italy and the pyramids in Egypt - I love all of the history behind them!

9) If you could change something about living in London, what would it be? 
If I could change one thing about living in London, it would be the prices! Being a student in London is hard work!

10) If you weren't going to be an actress what one other job would you like to do and why?
If I wasn't an actress I would work in something related to history - I am fascinated by the stories of our past and how people lived around the world.

Erin is an Assistant Director and one of Proforca's founding members and is an actress based in London. Erin is also one of the contributing writers to "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" You can find Erin and some of her other projects on Twitter @eoread7. 

Follow Proforca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ProforcaTheatre and via our website at www.proforca.co.uk. 

"The Importance of Being Earnest" is performed 27th - 30th September and "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" is on November 2nd - 4th 2017. Tickets for both shows in our "Project Wilde" series are available now and can be found at our website at www.proforca.co.uk/boxoffice or via www.lionandunicorntheatre.co.uk

An Earnest Q & A with Catrin Keeler

In the run up to our performances of "The Importance of Being Earnest" We sat down with some of our brilliant cast and crew. Next up is Proforca founding member Catrin Keeler, who's swapping her brassy Northern lasses and leopard print for something a little bit different. Kris Jenner better watch out! 

1) How would your friends introduce you? 
Probably as ‘this is Cat. She’s been on gameshows.’ 

2) Tell us a bit about your character and what you like most about them?
I like Lady Bracknell’s complete and utter interest in herself and the position she has clearly worked so hard to get to. She literally doesn’t acknowledge anyone else’s existence unless they can assist her with her standing in society, but woe betide anyone who threatens that - then she’s like a viper! The fact she admits herself she came from nothing makes it all the more glorious. I'm convinced she'd have been the Victorian equivalent of WAG, Trophy Wife or Kris Kardashian.......

3) What is it that you like most about Earnest and why do you think people should buy a ticket?
It’s a classic case of misunderstanding and crossed wires. And it will be interesting to see it completely stripped back and the focus being purely on the text and the rapport rather than big bustles and victorian frocks. 

4) If you could be in any theatre production, what would it be and why?
The Book Of Mormon. An impossibility without a few physiological changes I admit, but it’s so gloriously offensive and brilliant I would contemplate those changes if I stood half a chance...

5) What's been your favourite Proforça moment so far?
There have been a few which have given me belly laughs. [I won’t name and shame but cable tossing springs to mind ;)] The whole being part of a group that can both play hard and work hard is brilliant as it creates an outlet for creativity and fun outside of the normal working day. And meeting my real life love interest (who we're nicknaming Lord Bracknell now!) through the group. Yes, I’m being soppy - get over it Lady B!

6) If you could swap lives with one celebrity for the day who would it be and why?
Andi Peters. That bloke literally has the life of Riley. That’s not a job!! He’s flown all over the place just to cajole people into spending premium rate prices to win what is probably the equivalent of his yearly salary. And he gets to go everywhere on holiday for free. It’s a tough life Andi - Hats off to you lad!

7) What scares you and excites you most about acting?
What scares me the most is involuntarily vomiting all over myself when on stage. I used to have terrible stage fright and gave up acting for a long time because of that fear. That and/or my legs collapsing underneath, and me writhing and screaming for an ambulance. 

What excites me is being able to leave Catrin Keeler at the door and put on my new persona. It could never get boring.

8) What's the most challenging thing you've done on stage that you're most proud of?
I once played Pogo from Pond Life when I was in my early thirties. She was an 18 year old who had learning difficulties and it was an incredibly difficult scene where she can’t cope and has a breakdown. I was told after I’d made one of my hardened producer friends cry. Making people cry (for the right reasons) will always make me proud!

9) If you were president for a day, what three laws would you enact? 

• Nobody with a bodily function for a surname will ever be allowed a position of any remote power in any walk of life. Ever.

• Nobody should ever have to pay to pee in public toilets.

• 3 day weekends.

10) What three luxury items would you take to a desert island? 

• Marmite
• Soundtrack to the Book Of Mormon
• A dog.

Cat is a founding member of Proforca Theatre Company. She previously played "Becky" in "If I Go" in May 2016 and was Producer and Costume Designer for "Saucy Jack and the Space Vixens." Shane Meadows, if you're out there, she's waiting for your call. You can find Cat on Twitter @CatrinKeeler . Follow Proforca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ProforcaTheatre and via our website at www.proforca.co.uk. 

"The Importance of Being Earnest" is performed 27th - 30th September and "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" is on November 2nd - 4th 2017. Tickets for both shows in our "Project Wilde" series are available now and can be found at our website at www.proforca.co.uk/boxoffice or via www.lionandunicorntheatre.co.uk

An Earnest Q & A with Emma Dodwell-Groves

In the run up to our performances of "The Importance of Being Earnest" We sat down with some of our brilliant cast and crew. First up is our amazing "Miss Prism" Emma Dodwell-Groves, who is swapping the plastic smuggling, space trucking, vixen-loving lifestyle of Frottage III for something a bit more civilised. (Well, we think she's civilised but judge for yourself!) 

1) Describe yourself in 5 words.

Quiet, subtle, mysterious, humble, boring. The complete opposite of all of those.

2) Describe your character in one sentence.

My perspective on Miss Prism is that she is a prudish know it all, with a not so deeply repressed romantic, even saucy streak.

3) What is it that you like most about Earnest and why do you think people should buy a ticket? 

Wilde's witty repartee. It flows perfectly off the page and you almost wish you and your friends spoke that way nowadays. You should buy a ticket because this production refreshingly shines the spotlight on the playwrights words without being bogged down by the 'period piece' aspects. 

4) What's your favourite piece of theatre and why?

Gosh. Um. That's hard. Can I pick two? I'd say 'The Last 5 Years' because it utterly destroys me. There is also something just incredible about the two simultaneous perspectives and how a solo can communicate a two person conversation without half the words. My other favourite is the Rocky Horror Picture Show, because I love a gender ambiguous, filthy, tongue-in-cheek romp. 

5) What's been your favourite Proforça moment so far?

Maybe when I had a gallon of glitter poured down my cleavage while having to act dead on stage. I don't know if dry glitter qualifies to use the unit of 'gallon', but I promise, when it's poured down your boobs, it feels like a liquid. (We commend the performance of the actress for her brilliant ability to "play dead" under very difficult circumstances.)

6) What's been the best piece of advice you've been given and why?

You do you, boo. 

7) Who would play you in a film of your life? 

Jennifer Lawrence. Because she's awesome. 

8) if you could time travel, where would you go and why? 

Wherever I went in history, I would prefer to be privileged. There's no point traveling back to medieval times and being a serf, or back to ancient china and being a 5th tier concubine. So as long as I get to be comfortably established, I would say perhaps Ancient Rome; decadent, artistic, academic and sexually liberated. 

9) if you were president for a day, what three laws would you enact?

1) More hugs
2) Free sanitary products and contraceptives
3) Basic tests on topic comprehension in all democratic votes

10) Tell us a piece of salacious and scandalous gossip worthy of Oscar Wilde himself! 

I have, on occasion, forgotten to wear undergarments. Mr. Worthing would not approve.

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Emma is an interculturalist and musical theatre lover originally from Hong Kong who moved to London in 2016. For Proforca she previously played "Chesty Prospects / Shirley Tri-Star" in "Saucy Jack and the Space Vixens." Her range of accents in rehearsals is legendary. Follow Proforca on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ProforcaTheatre and via our website at www.proforca.co.uk. 

"The Importance of Being Earnest" is performed 27th - 30th September and "The Ballad of Reading Gaol" is on November 2nd - 4th 2017. Tickets for both shows in our "Project Wilde" series are available now and can be found at our website at www.proforca.co.uk/boxoffice or via www.lionandunicorntheatre.co.uk