PHEW! Well the Arts Council came through and have given me funding to make the Maskelyne project happen next year - 8, 9 & 10th May at the Playhouse Theatre in Cheltenham. John Nevil Maskelyne was a master magician. His illustrious career began when he exposed charlatan spiritualists in Cheltenham Town Hall. He then went on to create illusions that amazed Victorian audiences, and still astonish people today. But why did he explore dark magic? Were his powers supernatural? And who was the mysterious gentleman in black who convinced him never to dabble in darkness again?
NEVER GIVE UP HOPE: I had one play dumped earlier this year with no sensible explanation, but thanks to the fabulous 6ft Stories Theatre Company I finally saw ‘Urban Myths’ brought to life in the Mill Studio at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre in Guildford.
BRAIN STRETCHING: After many long hours online I have gained a Certificate of Mastery in Greek Heroes from Harvard University. I started this in the summer when my brain was being underused, but then lots more things started happening, but I stuck with it and now have a head full of fascinating thoughts about theatre and drama.
QATAR: Still on, but looks like being later on next year now.
UNEXPECTED WORK: Andy and I had a meeting with the local council about a project we had in mind and were asked on the spot to deliver a project called ‘Podsmead Visions’. It's a book of bedtime stories to inspire kids in this deprived area of Gloucester to have ambitious dreams and goals for their future. That’s all done – we’re just waiting for the proof copies to be delivered.
AND FINALLY: There are exciting things happening in Gloucester, and I’m very happy to be a part of the Olympus Theatre regeneration, where I’ll be running the Playwright’s workshops and hopefully doing much, much more. Talks are in progress for projects up to 2016 – watch this space!
