We have a small but mighty core team!
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Kiz Crosbie
Artistic Director / CEO
kiz@mortalfools.org.uk |
Helen Ferguson
Creative Producer
helen@mortalfools.org.uk |
Zoe Anderson
Programme Coordinator
zoe@mortalfools.org.uk |
Rachel Horton
Audience and business development
Rachel.Horton@mortalfools.org.uk |
Craig Spence
Production Manager
craig@mortalfools.org.uk |
All about our Associate Artists:
As well as our core team, we have an ever growing team of fantastic freelance associate artists who support and deliver the work of Mortal Fools. This means Mortal Fools is agile, able to tap into cross sector expertise and has some of the best talent in the region supporting our projects and mission.
This talented bunch of theatre-makers, practitioners, technicians, lighting designers, sound designers, marketeers, stage managers, producers, dramaturgs and consultants are the back bone and heart of Mortal Fools.
Click the + below to find out a bit more about each of them...
Mortal Fools are delighted to sponsor a Freelance Task Force member, our Mortal Fools’ Lead Associate Practitioner, Sian Armstrong. Freelance artists are the lifeblood of Mortal Fools – to put it simply, we wouldn’t exist without them. The aim of the Freelance Task Force is to strengthen the influence of the self-employed theatre and performance community. Actively supporting this Task Force, felt urgent, important to Mortal Fools – you can read more about it HERE.
We recruit new freelancers into our associate team once a year and cast actors and specific technical roles as and when productions and projects evolve. To find out more about Mortal Fools and our next recruitment date, drop us an email via: info@mortalfools.org.uk
This talented bunch of theatre-makers, practitioners, technicians, lighting designers, sound designers, marketeers, stage managers, producers, dramaturgs and consultants are the back bone and heart of Mortal Fools.
Click the + below to find out a bit more about each of them...
Mortal Fools are delighted to sponsor a Freelance Task Force member, our Mortal Fools’ Lead Associate Practitioner, Sian Armstrong. Freelance artists are the lifeblood of Mortal Fools – to put it simply, we wouldn’t exist without them. The aim of the Freelance Task Force is to strengthen the influence of the self-employed theatre and performance community. Actively supporting this Task Force, felt urgent, important to Mortal Fools – you can read more about it HERE.
We recruit new freelancers into our associate team once a year and cast actors and specific technical roles as and when productions and projects evolve. To find out more about Mortal Fools and our next recruitment date, drop us an email via: info@mortalfools.org.uk
sian armstrong - lead associate practitioner
Sian is a fantastic theatre-maker, one of our longest serving current Associate Artists, and somebody who embodies everything Mortal Fools is about! We are also supporting Sian as a member of the National #FreelanceTaskforce – the aim of which is to strengthen the influence of the self-employed theatre and performance community (read more about this here)
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
I’m Sian - I am a theatre-maker, writer & creative practitioner specialising in co-creation &
engagement with young people & communities.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about your work, and you as an artist…
Alongside my work with Mortal Fools, you’ll either find me writing, performing or producing my own theatre, including:
STUPID (2016) - awarded Arts Council funding, produced by Mortal Fools & mentored by Caroline Horton has toured across the North East to sell-out performances & received excellent reviews describing the show as, “[the] best piece of theatre seen this season.” – Culture Vulture.
MAGIC BUS (2020) - awarded ARC’s North East Development Scheme (2018), Arts Council Funding & Live Theatre’s Artist Bursary, to develop & perform the show as part of their Elevator Festival 2020. This was interrupted by COVID-19… more news coming soon!
I make theatre that is honest, funny, and surprising - often personal - sometimes political, focusing on working-class, northern stories. I often work in collaboration with other performers, directors and designers, and I am co-founder of The Table; a writing community that supports womxn and non-binary writers based in the North East supported by New Writing North’s Young Writers Talent Fund (2017).
Q3. Tell us about the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what that was like?
I can’t remember the very first project I worked on, but I remember the first project I worked on as a Lead Practitioner and that was ‘Music, Moments & Memories’ in 2016. It was absolutely terrifying to start, as I was leading the group on my own and it was a hand full managing 15 excitable 7-year olds, but the pay off at the end when I watched my group perform on stage was probably one of the most proudest moments I’ve ever experienced. I also forgot to leave an important prop on stage for one of the performers pre-show but it didn’t faze her - she made it work regardless – and I think that was also the moment I realised that we have so much to learn from young people.
Q4. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
If anyone needs a creative eye, or support or help with thinking of ideas – I feel like I’m good at that – I like listening, reflecting and offering creative ideas. I also work hard, and won’t stop until it’s done. And I think everyone needs that kind of mentality when working with Mortal Fools. They have high expectations – for good reason.
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Working for Mortal Fools is an exhilarating learning process. They never stop and get comfortable. They support their team to grow and develop, with them, with every project. They are always looking for ways to progress, to move forward and actively respond to what’s happening around them. And I love that.
Q6. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
TWITTER - @sianystars
INSTAGRAM - @sianmakestheatre & @thetablenortheast
I’m Sian - I am a theatre-maker, writer & creative practitioner specialising in co-creation &
engagement with young people & communities.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about your work, and you as an artist…
Alongside my work with Mortal Fools, you’ll either find me writing, performing or producing my own theatre, including:
STUPID (2016) - awarded Arts Council funding, produced by Mortal Fools & mentored by Caroline Horton has toured across the North East to sell-out performances & received excellent reviews describing the show as, “[the] best piece of theatre seen this season.” – Culture Vulture.
MAGIC BUS (2020) - awarded ARC’s North East Development Scheme (2018), Arts Council Funding & Live Theatre’s Artist Bursary, to develop & perform the show as part of their Elevator Festival 2020. This was interrupted by COVID-19… more news coming soon!
I make theatre that is honest, funny, and surprising - often personal - sometimes political, focusing on working-class, northern stories. I often work in collaboration with other performers, directors and designers, and I am co-founder of The Table; a writing community that supports womxn and non-binary writers based in the North East supported by New Writing North’s Young Writers Talent Fund (2017).
Q3. Tell us about the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what that was like?
I can’t remember the very first project I worked on, but I remember the first project I worked on as a Lead Practitioner and that was ‘Music, Moments & Memories’ in 2016. It was absolutely terrifying to start, as I was leading the group on my own and it was a hand full managing 15 excitable 7-year olds, but the pay off at the end when I watched my group perform on stage was probably one of the most proudest moments I’ve ever experienced. I also forgot to leave an important prop on stage for one of the performers pre-show but it didn’t faze her - she made it work regardless – and I think that was also the moment I realised that we have so much to learn from young people.
Q4. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
If anyone needs a creative eye, or support or help with thinking of ideas – I feel like I’m good at that – I like listening, reflecting and offering creative ideas. I also work hard, and won’t stop until it’s done. And I think everyone needs that kind of mentality when working with Mortal Fools. They have high expectations – for good reason.
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Working for Mortal Fools is an exhilarating learning process. They never stop and get comfortable. They support their team to grow and develop, with them, with every project. They are always looking for ways to progress, to move forward and actively respond to what’s happening around them. And I love that.
Q6. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
TWITTER - @sianystars
INSTAGRAM - @sianmakestheatre & @thetablenortheast
Rachael Walsh
Rachael joined Mortal Fools at our recruitment day back in March 2017, and she has been an integral part of the team ever since. At the end of 2019, she stepped up into a Lead Associate Practitioner role with the company, working across pretty much all of our different strands of work.
She’s bagged herself a place at the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School from September 2020, and although we are quite seriously heartbroken that she is moving so far away, we can’t wait to see what she gets up to down there because we know it will be brilliant. And she is still working with us on our online projects - we wouldn't let go her get away that easily.
She’s bagged herself a place at the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School from September 2020, and although we are quite seriously heartbroken that she is moving so far away, we can’t wait to see what she gets up to down there because we know it will be brilliant. And she is still working with us on our online projects - we wouldn't let go her get away that easily.
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
I’m a writer, director and dramaturg who has been working with Mortal Fools for about 3 years. In that time, I’ve been involved with a range of MF’s projects including as Assistant Director/Dramaturg on the last two Young People’s Theatre Exchange projects, Lead Facilitator on the Melva tour and a Lead Practitioner for MFYT.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
I was recently commissioned by New Creatives North to make White Dwarf, a short film which is currently available to watch on BBC iPlayer. I also perform improv regularly with Spontaneous Wrecks and Open Heart Theatre, and in September I’ll be starting an MA in Drama Directing at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.
Q3. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what was that like?
The first project I properly worked on was Say It, Play It; the improv term in July 2017. It was my first chance to see the high standards that Mortal Fools places on its projects and performances and the brilliant potential of the young people we work with.
Q4. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight…
During the week-long intensive rehearsal for ‘Relentless’ this year, Helen brought in doughnuts for the cast as a treat. We thought it was too simple to just give them the doughnuts so we made a mini treasure hunt with clues that led them to the doughnuts and accidentally started a bit of a tradition which they looked forward to every day. By the end of the week the treasure hunt led to a few bags of crisps and some random biscuits because that’s all we had left.
Q5. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
My background in writing means that I’m quite logical and pragmatic, but my experience with improv means I can be spontaneous and adaptable (NOTE FROM MF TEAM: Rachael definitely is all of this things and brings the best of all of these skills to everything she works on!)
Q6. Describe the style of theatre or art you personally love to make in 4 words:
Fun, charming, bright, daring
Q7. Describe Mortal Fools in 4 words:
Bold, ambitious, professional, unstoppable
Q8. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
www.Rachaelannwalsh.com
Short Film White Dwarf: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p085f031/new-creatives-white-dwarf
I’m a writer, director and dramaturg who has been working with Mortal Fools for about 3 years. In that time, I’ve been involved with a range of MF’s projects including as Assistant Director/Dramaturg on the last two Young People’s Theatre Exchange projects, Lead Facilitator on the Melva tour and a Lead Practitioner for MFYT.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
I was recently commissioned by New Creatives North to make White Dwarf, a short film which is currently available to watch on BBC iPlayer. I also perform improv regularly with Spontaneous Wrecks and Open Heart Theatre, and in September I’ll be starting an MA in Drama Directing at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.
Q3. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what was that like?
The first project I properly worked on was Say It, Play It; the improv term in July 2017. It was my first chance to see the high standards that Mortal Fools places on its projects and performances and the brilliant potential of the young people we work with.
Q4. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight…
During the week-long intensive rehearsal for ‘Relentless’ this year, Helen brought in doughnuts for the cast as a treat. We thought it was too simple to just give them the doughnuts so we made a mini treasure hunt with clues that led them to the doughnuts and accidentally started a bit of a tradition which they looked forward to every day. By the end of the week the treasure hunt led to a few bags of crisps and some random biscuits because that’s all we had left.
Q5. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
My background in writing means that I’m quite logical and pragmatic, but my experience with improv means I can be spontaneous and adaptable (NOTE FROM MF TEAM: Rachael definitely is all of this things and brings the best of all of these skills to everything she works on!)
Q6. Describe the style of theatre or art you personally love to make in 4 words:
Fun, charming, bright, daring
Q7. Describe Mortal Fools in 4 words:
Bold, ambitious, professional, unstoppable
Q8. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
www.Rachaelannwalsh.com
Short Film White Dwarf: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p085f031/new-creatives-white-dwarf
danielle burn
Danielle is one of our long-term associate artists and fantastic children’s theatre writer. Danielle wrote MELVA - our young people’s theatre show all about teaching children how to better understand and manage their worries and anxieties which we recently toured to over 2,800 young people in the North-East! We think she is blumming brilliant, but don’t just take our word for it…
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
My name is Danielle and I am a children’s Playwright, as well as a children’s theatre and writing facilitator and a project manager.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about what you’re working on at the moment…
I have just finished writing a new children’s play, which will be performed at the Customs House in South Shields, as well as starting to plan another Christmas play and beginning research into writing a children’s book. My new(ish) and main job is a being a Mam to my daughter, Iris!
Q3. Describe the style of theatre or art you personally love to make in 4 words:
Wacky, compassionate, thoughtful, bold.
Q4. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what was that like?
I would hazard a guess that it was about 4 or 5 years ago… it’s all a bit blurry but I know it was a ‘Play in a Week’ in Riding Mill where I assisted in directing and we completely transformed the Parish Hall into a gazillion different performance spaces. I think this was my first proper experience of running a show like this. It was intense, crazy and ballsy - totally Mortal-Foolsy!
Q5. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight…
One of two - The time Kiz asked me to write a Christmas show for Mortal Dools after literally just sending her a scene of a random show I had an idea about! I mean, gobsmacked to say the least!
Q6. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Comforting, honest, challenging, FUN!!!
Q7. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
You can follow my Instagram page @daniellescribbles which is a page of thoughts, scribbles and characters I’m working on.
Danielle is also working with us on plans and ideas for a potential online portal for Melva, so watch this space! You can find out more about Melva and the wonderful world Danielle has created by watching the project video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/29iy1h6Tf1k
My name is Danielle and I am a children’s Playwright, as well as a children’s theatre and writing facilitator and a project manager.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about what you’re working on at the moment…
I have just finished writing a new children’s play, which will be performed at the Customs House in South Shields, as well as starting to plan another Christmas play and beginning research into writing a children’s book. My new(ish) and main job is a being a Mam to my daughter, Iris!
Q3. Describe the style of theatre or art you personally love to make in 4 words:
Wacky, compassionate, thoughtful, bold.
Q4. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what was that like?
I would hazard a guess that it was about 4 or 5 years ago… it’s all a bit blurry but I know it was a ‘Play in a Week’ in Riding Mill where I assisted in directing and we completely transformed the Parish Hall into a gazillion different performance spaces. I think this was my first proper experience of running a show like this. It was intense, crazy and ballsy - totally Mortal-Foolsy!
Q5. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight…
One of two - The time Kiz asked me to write a Christmas show for Mortal Dools after literally just sending her a scene of a random show I had an idea about! I mean, gobsmacked to say the least!
Q6. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Comforting, honest, challenging, FUN!!!
Q7. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
You can follow my Instagram page @daniellescribbles which is a page of thoughts, scribbles and characters I’m working on.
Danielle is also working with us on plans and ideas for a potential online portal for Melva, so watch this space! You can find out more about Melva and the wonderful world Danielle has created by watching the project video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/29iy1h6Tf1k
Liam scarth
As a working actor, Liam brings specific skills and expertise to his work with us, to really support our members to develop their performance and theatre-making skills. As well as working in the arts, Liam is also a practising Yoga instructor. This informs his practice with Mortal Fools – focusing on mindful exercises that support our members wellbeing.
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
My name's Liam. I work as a freelance actor, workshop facilitator and theatre-maker in the North-East. I work with Mortal Fools as a practitioner working across their youth theatre, Melva, and Adult Training programmes.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
Before lockdown began, I was working on my very first short film called Pillars of Creation. Of course, the outbreak caused the filming to be halted, so right now I’m working on a few different projects to keep my creativity flowing, including:
*Writing stories that are based upon our old and well-known folktales.
*Writing new music (and fundraising to help buy some good quality recording equipment)
*Beginning work on my one person show - One Man's Trash
Q3. Describe the style of theatre or art you personally love to make in 4 words:
Heartfelt, community-driven, emboldening, relatable
Q4. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what was that like?
Stocking Fillers - December 2018. I was juggling two groups, as well as making it into a promenade performance. Although challenging, I was so overjoyed and proud of the end result. Then sitting down at the award ceremony afterwards - just watching all the excitement from the young people and the sounds of them cheering for one another - I couldn’t stop smiling! The communal spirit just made my heart sing.
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
I feel uplifted and passionate every time I come to work with Mortal Fools. Everyone is respected and held in such high regard with one another. There is a sense that we are all on the forefront of a new dawn of company management - where each and every member of the company is an essential part of the Mortal Fools jigsaw.
Q6. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
You can find my yoga practice on Facebook Yogaheim or in Instagram @Yogaheim69
My name's Liam. I work as a freelance actor, workshop facilitator and theatre-maker in the North-East. I work with Mortal Fools as a practitioner working across their youth theatre, Melva, and Adult Training programmes.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
Before lockdown began, I was working on my very first short film called Pillars of Creation. Of course, the outbreak caused the filming to be halted, so right now I’m working on a few different projects to keep my creativity flowing, including:
*Writing stories that are based upon our old and well-known folktales.
*Writing new music (and fundraising to help buy some good quality recording equipment)
*Beginning work on my one person show - One Man's Trash
Q3. Describe the style of theatre or art you personally love to make in 4 words:
Heartfelt, community-driven, emboldening, relatable
Q4. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what was that like?
Stocking Fillers - December 2018. I was juggling two groups, as well as making it into a promenade performance. Although challenging, I was so overjoyed and proud of the end result. Then sitting down at the award ceremony afterwards - just watching all the excitement from the young people and the sounds of them cheering for one another - I couldn’t stop smiling! The communal spirit just made my heart sing.
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
I feel uplifted and passionate every time I come to work with Mortal Fools. Everyone is respected and held in such high regard with one another. There is a sense that we are all on the forefront of a new dawn of company management - where each and every member of the company is an essential part of the Mortal Fools jigsaw.
Q6. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
You can find my yoga practice on Facebook Yogaheim or in Instagram @Yogaheim69
zoe thomson
Zoe is a recent MA graduate and facilitation extraordinaire! We are very lucky to be one of many brilliant organisations Zoe works with, including Curious Monkey, Arts Centre Washington, Bigfoot Arts Education North East, Little Voices and Wings Academy.
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
I’m Zoe, I’m a theatre-maker and facilitator and I work with the brilliant Mortal Fools Youth Theatre.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
I’ve recently finished an MA in Theatre and Performance where I was developing my skills in devising and solo performance. I work as a facilitator with a variety of companies and love getting to meet and work with a whole range of children and young people. I also work for Curious Monkey Theatre company and love being part of their team, especially the work we’re doing with refugees and asylum seekers.
Q3. Tell us about one of your favourite Mortal Fools memories?
One of my highlights is actually my interview with Mortal Fools, because it was such a positive experience! It was a totally new way of interviewing to me as I got to meet the whole team, the Ensemble Young Company members, and the other facilitators who were interviewing. It was a great day of seeing what we all had to offer each other and understanding a bit more about how Mortal Fools works.
Q4. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
It feels like I’m a part of a huge network of people, which is an incredible feat for such a small core team! There are lots of brilliant people involved in all the different strands of Mortal Fools work and it’s great to get to know them all.
Q5. Describe the style of theatre or art you personally love to make in 3 words:
Physical, political, poetic
Q6. Describe Mortal Fools in 4 words:
Supportive, engaged, current, forward-thinking
I’m Zoe, I’m a theatre-maker and facilitator and I work with the brilliant Mortal Fools Youth Theatre.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
I’ve recently finished an MA in Theatre and Performance where I was developing my skills in devising and solo performance. I work as a facilitator with a variety of companies and love getting to meet and work with a whole range of children and young people. I also work for Curious Monkey Theatre company and love being part of their team, especially the work we’re doing with refugees and asylum seekers.
Q3. Tell us about one of your favourite Mortal Fools memories?
One of my highlights is actually my interview with Mortal Fools, because it was such a positive experience! It was a totally new way of interviewing to me as I got to meet the whole team, the Ensemble Young Company members, and the other facilitators who were interviewing. It was a great day of seeing what we all had to offer each other and understanding a bit more about how Mortal Fools works.
Q4. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
It feels like I’m a part of a huge network of people, which is an incredible feat for such a small core team! There are lots of brilliant people involved in all the different strands of Mortal Fools work and it’s great to get to know them all.
Q5. Describe the style of theatre or art you personally love to make in 3 words:
Physical, political, poetic
Q6. Describe Mortal Fools in 4 words:
Supportive, engaged, current, forward-thinking
john quinn
John is another long-term practitioner with Mortal Fools. He's worked mostly with our Stage 2 MFYT group, creating bonkers stories and helping them let their imaginations run wild. Most recently, he worked as a Lead Practitioner on our MELVA project, helping us design and deliver workshops focused on wellbeing and mental health to 1000s of young people in Northumberland.
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jamie tansley
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
Hiya! I'm Jamie - I'm a theater-maker, director, dramaturg (which is a fancy German word for someone who asks you difficult questions to make sure your play is makes sense and says what you want it to say.)
Q2. Tell us a bit about you as an artist…
When riding solo, you’ll find me under the ‘alias’ dandysocpic. I like it when theatre makes a mess - when it's loud and bright - and I make theatre because I believe that sharing our stories can make us better, stronger and more thoughtful.
Most recently I created solo theatre performance ‘SPACE: A Herstory’ co-comissioned by Curious Arts & Northern Stage.
It's a live archive of the history of LGBTQIA+ spaces from nightclubs, the protests, to youth groups, to our bedrooms - capturing a history which is at risk of being erased. Alongside that I've been Creative Associate on Northern Stage’s main house production of ‘A Christmas Carol’ and directed Zoë Murtagh 's 'Iconography’
Q3. Describe the style of theatre or art you personally love to make in 4 words:
Gender-bent, Unapologetically camp, Heartfelt and Unashamed.
Q4. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
I really enjoy and have worked a lot on taking big stories, complex ideas and big (sometimes unanswerable) questions and breaking them down in a playful and accessible way. I always feel like I've done a good job if I've helped someone achieve their goal and feel good about themselves.
I'm a creative problem solver - always happy to pitch in and get messy. I'm honest and thoughtful; so if you want talk ideas or need advice I think I'm good person to talk to.
I'm curious and love to hear other people's stories. I work a lot with marginalized communities; as such I'm constantly working to find ways to open up a dialogue, have a meaningful conversation and platform quieter voices.
Q5. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what was that like?
My first project was 'Say It! Play It!' - a term dedicated to exploring the art of Improv. And it was... wild. I'd never really done improv – never mind coaching young people in the skills it requires - but we had so much fun, we got silly, we worked on performance skills and the support from my fellow practitioners helped me gain some new skills.
Q6. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight…
During a Relentless rehearsal one of the cast members walked onto the stage in an unexpected, unplanned and unapproved costume. A costume that can only be described as art teacher, bargain bin, hipster chic. They performed the scene with unwavering commitment in spite of the creative team being unable to hold back the laughs. I don't think I've laughed so hard since. I can still feel the tears stinging my eyes when I think about it. (It'd been a long week to be fair)
Q7. Describe Mortal Fools in 4 words:
Uplifting, Energizing, Ambitious, Adapting
Hiya! I'm Jamie - I'm a theater-maker, director, dramaturg (which is a fancy German word for someone who asks you difficult questions to make sure your play is makes sense and says what you want it to say.)
Q2. Tell us a bit about you as an artist…
When riding solo, you’ll find me under the ‘alias’ dandysocpic. I like it when theatre makes a mess - when it's loud and bright - and I make theatre because I believe that sharing our stories can make us better, stronger and more thoughtful.
Most recently I created solo theatre performance ‘SPACE: A Herstory’ co-comissioned by Curious Arts & Northern Stage.
It's a live archive of the history of LGBTQIA+ spaces from nightclubs, the protests, to youth groups, to our bedrooms - capturing a history which is at risk of being erased. Alongside that I've been Creative Associate on Northern Stage’s main house production of ‘A Christmas Carol’ and directed Zoë Murtagh 's 'Iconography’
Q3. Describe the style of theatre or art you personally love to make in 4 words:
Gender-bent, Unapologetically camp, Heartfelt and Unashamed.
Q4. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
I really enjoy and have worked a lot on taking big stories, complex ideas and big (sometimes unanswerable) questions and breaking them down in a playful and accessible way. I always feel like I've done a good job if I've helped someone achieve their goal and feel good about themselves.
I'm a creative problem solver - always happy to pitch in and get messy. I'm honest and thoughtful; so if you want talk ideas or need advice I think I'm good person to talk to.
I'm curious and love to hear other people's stories. I work a lot with marginalized communities; as such I'm constantly working to find ways to open up a dialogue, have a meaningful conversation and platform quieter voices.
Q5. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what was that like?
My first project was 'Say It! Play It!' - a term dedicated to exploring the art of Improv. And it was... wild. I'd never really done improv – never mind coaching young people in the skills it requires - but we had so much fun, we got silly, we worked on performance skills and the support from my fellow practitioners helped me gain some new skills.
Q6. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight…
During a Relentless rehearsal one of the cast members walked onto the stage in an unexpected, unplanned and unapproved costume. A costume that can only be described as art teacher, bargain bin, hipster chic. They performed the scene with unwavering commitment in spite of the creative team being unable to hold back the laughs. I don't think I've laughed so hard since. I can still feel the tears stinging my eyes when I think about it. (It'd been a long week to be fair)
Q7. Describe Mortal Fools in 4 words:
Uplifting, Energizing, Ambitious, Adapting
phoebe dodd
Phoebe joined the team towards the end of 2019, but she has been involved with the company for many years through her younger sister, who is one of our seasoned Mortal Fools Youth Theatre members.
Phoebe was such a huge supporter of the company from the off – regularly coming to see our work and offering her feedback and insights – so when she applied to be part of our Associate Team and we got to see her work at the recruitment day, we jumped at the chance to bring her on board.
Phoebe was such a huge supporter of the company from the off – regularly coming to see our work and offering her feedback and insights – so when she applied to be part of our Associate Team and we got to see her work at the recruitment day, we jumped at the chance to bring her on board.
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
I’m Phoebe, I’m 23, and I am a dancer and actor based in Newcastle. I currently work with Mortal Fools’ as a youth theatre practitioner, as well as working with Kiz and Eilish at the Dales school in Blyth. I was also involved with the most recent Melva tour, delivering workshops in the schools we visited.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
As a performer I work for the dance theatre company Hit the Ground Running, who I have been involved with for the last three years and in particular their new work ‘Suitcases’. I’m really starting to push myself as a physical theatre performer - I want to always combine my acting and dance capabilities to create a fusion of the two, because I think there is such unusual truth in the combination when performing. I am also an artist in residence at the Creative Seed, a carnival company based in South Tyneside.
Q3. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight?
This is something I talk about pretty regularly and actually has nothing to do with me – it’s about my sister. My little sister has been involved with Ensemble for a couple of years and I’ll never forget watching her in ‘Brainstorm’, on tour in Barrow-in-Furness, and feeling so proud and emotional and overjoyed at this incredible work she was doing and how amazing she felt and looked doing it.
Q4. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
My expertise on the body and physicality. I love the physical side of storytelling and my facilitation work always favours this, even if that means just putting music on and having a bop about with the kids! Play and creativity are really important to my practice as well. I don’t think we can get enough creativity and imagination - it’s the best thing you can possibly have as a performer
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Working with Mortal Fools is like working with lots of cool grown-ups who will let you run around and play and just be ridiculous, but then it’s crazy because when you stop running around like a loon, you realise you’ve learnt ten new things! I love it.
Q6. Anything else you want to direct us to?
Everybody should go and check out Hit The Ground Running Dance Theatre Company – the work is really beautiful!
I’m Phoebe, I’m 23, and I am a dancer and actor based in Newcastle. I currently work with Mortal Fools’ as a youth theatre practitioner, as well as working with Kiz and Eilish at the Dales school in Blyth. I was also involved with the most recent Melva tour, delivering workshops in the schools we visited.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
As a performer I work for the dance theatre company Hit the Ground Running, who I have been involved with for the last three years and in particular their new work ‘Suitcases’. I’m really starting to push myself as a physical theatre performer - I want to always combine my acting and dance capabilities to create a fusion of the two, because I think there is such unusual truth in the combination when performing. I am also an artist in residence at the Creative Seed, a carnival company based in South Tyneside.
Q3. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight?
This is something I talk about pretty regularly and actually has nothing to do with me – it’s about my sister. My little sister has been involved with Ensemble for a couple of years and I’ll never forget watching her in ‘Brainstorm’, on tour in Barrow-in-Furness, and feeling so proud and emotional and overjoyed at this incredible work she was doing and how amazing she felt and looked doing it.
Q4. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
My expertise on the body and physicality. I love the physical side of storytelling and my facilitation work always favours this, even if that means just putting music on and having a bop about with the kids! Play and creativity are really important to my practice as well. I don’t think we can get enough creativity and imagination - it’s the best thing you can possibly have as a performer
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Working with Mortal Fools is like working with lots of cool grown-ups who will let you run around and play and just be ridiculous, but then it’s crazy because when you stop running around like a loon, you realise you’ve learnt ten new things! I love it.
Q6. Anything else you want to direct us to?
Everybody should go and check out Hit The Ground Running Dance Theatre Company – the work is really beautiful!
matthew tuckey
Matt joined the team towards the end of 2019 and works with us in a more specialised way as a Sound Designer. He has worked with our SEND learners up in Alnwick as part of our FUTURE READY programme, delivering Foley workshops to help them with creating their radio play, and his biggest role with us so far has been working as sound designer for our latest Ensemble Young Company show – Relentless.
The 2020 tour for this show unfortunately had to be cancelled due to COVID-19, and Matt talks a little bit here about Mortal Fools’ response to the crisis and what that has meant for our Associate Team.
The 2020 tour for this show unfortunately had to be cancelled due to COVID-19, and Matt talks a little bit here about Mortal Fools’ response to the crisis and what that has meant for our Associate Team.
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
Hello! My name is Matt, and I am a sound designer and sound artist working across theatre, live events, and contemporary art. I have recently joined the associate team at Mortal Fools as the sound designer for Relentless and as a facilitator for sound led creative workshops.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
Most of my work is as a sound designer for devised and new-writing theatre in the North of England, and recently this has involved working in close collaboration with composers which has been really exciting. I am also really enjoying spending more time on private and public contemporary sound art commissions.
Q3. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
I have quite a particular skill set that focuses on how we tell stories through sound, using both technical and creative skills. Anything from creating complex layered soundscapes to underscore onstage action, to recording voice overs, to designing the complete sound system for a touring production.
Q4. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools?
My first project with Mortal Fools began in January 2020 as the sound designer for Relentless, a new devised show made by the excellent Ensemble Young Company. Relentless was an exciting privilege, not only for its artistic ambitions as a piece of theatre but also for the part it plays in the wider mission of Mortal Fools as a company.
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Working alongside the young people and fellow practitioners in the company has been a great encouragement on two levels. Firstly, that Mortal Fools can and does offer such high-quality participatory theatre opportunities for young people. Secondly, it is encouraging to be part of a regional theatre company that is aiming for both excellent artistic quality and excellent wellbeing and development of its associate practitioners and young participants.
I haven’t been on the team for very long, but I would say that Mortal Fools has been extremely fast and clear with their response to COVID-19 and the dramatic change of working environments. Kiz and her core team have been tenacious and thoughtful in their restructuring and communications - keeping the well-being and creative opportunities for their participants and associate practitioners at the forefront of their mission, even in the most challenging of circumstances.
Q6. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
www.matthewtuckey.co.uk
facebook.com/thesoundportrait/
Instagram: @thesoundportrait
Twitter: @MGTuckey
Hello! My name is Matt, and I am a sound designer and sound artist working across theatre, live events, and contemporary art. I have recently joined the associate team at Mortal Fools as the sound designer for Relentless and as a facilitator for sound led creative workshops.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
Most of my work is as a sound designer for devised and new-writing theatre in the North of England, and recently this has involved working in close collaboration with composers which has been really exciting. I am also really enjoying spending more time on private and public contemporary sound art commissions.
Q3. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
I have quite a particular skill set that focuses on how we tell stories through sound, using both technical and creative skills. Anything from creating complex layered soundscapes to underscore onstage action, to recording voice overs, to designing the complete sound system for a touring production.
Q4. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools?
My first project with Mortal Fools began in January 2020 as the sound designer for Relentless, a new devised show made by the excellent Ensemble Young Company. Relentless was an exciting privilege, not only for its artistic ambitions as a piece of theatre but also for the part it plays in the wider mission of Mortal Fools as a company.
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Working alongside the young people and fellow practitioners in the company has been a great encouragement on two levels. Firstly, that Mortal Fools can and does offer such high-quality participatory theatre opportunities for young people. Secondly, it is encouraging to be part of a regional theatre company that is aiming for both excellent artistic quality and excellent wellbeing and development of its associate practitioners and young participants.
I haven’t been on the team for very long, but I would say that Mortal Fools has been extremely fast and clear with their response to COVID-19 and the dramatic change of working environments. Kiz and her core team have been tenacious and thoughtful in their restructuring and communications - keeping the well-being and creative opportunities for their participants and associate practitioners at the forefront of their mission, even in the most challenging of circumstances.
Q6. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
www.matthewtuckey.co.uk
facebook.com/thesoundportrait/
Instagram: @thesoundportrait
Twitter: @MGTuckey
eilish stout cairns
We are chuffed to be supporting Eilish as one of our early-career artists. Her main role with us so far has been as an actor in MELVA, but in early 2020 she also started supporting the delivery of our FUTURE READY and MFYT sessions too.
She has such a fantastic rapport with our participants, and we’re excited to see what's in store for her as she continues working with us across more projects.
She has such a fantastic rapport with our participants, and we’re excited to see what's in store for her as she continues working with us across more projects.
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
My name is Eilish, I’m a wee 23-year-old actor who has just delved into the world of facilitation. I started out with Mortal Fools back in 2017 in their first production of MELVA.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
In the last 6 months, alongside MELVA tour, I went on tour with Northumberland Theatre Company in their production of the Snow Queen. I got to wear rainbow, sing songs and play my ukulele - it was an absolute dream! For the past year I have also been working as Creative Director of Hopscotch Entertainment, a children’s entertainment company which provide parties and characters for events. Believe it or not, there’s a lot that goes into dressing up as a princess!
Q3. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight?
I don’t think we ever quite got over seeing the teachers’ faces when they walked in to find a woman dressed as a goat – hooves and all - in their staff room (Eilish is referring to Feggis – the talking mountain goat in MELVA who was a firm favourite with every audience).
Q4. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
Being an actor, I’ve done a lot of children’s theatre and have plenty of experience working with little children. Like them, I have endless amounts of energy! I love to laugh and play and I’m certainly not afraid of looking pretty silly.
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Working with Mortal Fools is like having an extended, slightly dysfunctional extra family. It’s wonderful to be a part of such an understanding and cooperative team, where everyone is treated as an equal and all opinions and suggestions matter.
Q6. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
Myself and another artist have been creating videos for children who may need entertaining during lockdown. We are called The Imagination Shakers. In true early-career artist style, I also have a side business in Spray Tanning! You can find me @SprayTansByEilish on both Facebook and Instagram.
My name is Eilish, I’m a wee 23-year-old actor who has just delved into the world of facilitation. I started out with Mortal Fools back in 2017 in their first production of MELVA.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
In the last 6 months, alongside MELVA tour, I went on tour with Northumberland Theatre Company in their production of the Snow Queen. I got to wear rainbow, sing songs and play my ukulele - it was an absolute dream! For the past year I have also been working as Creative Director of Hopscotch Entertainment, a children’s entertainment company which provide parties and characters for events. Believe it or not, there’s a lot that goes into dressing up as a princess!
Q3. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight?
I don’t think we ever quite got over seeing the teachers’ faces when they walked in to find a woman dressed as a goat – hooves and all - in their staff room (Eilish is referring to Feggis – the talking mountain goat in MELVA who was a firm favourite with every audience).
Q4. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
Being an actor, I’ve done a lot of children’s theatre and have plenty of experience working with little children. Like them, I have endless amounts of energy! I love to laugh and play and I’m certainly not afraid of looking pretty silly.
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Working with Mortal Fools is like having an extended, slightly dysfunctional extra family. It’s wonderful to be a part of such an understanding and cooperative team, where everyone is treated as an equal and all opinions and suggestions matter.
Q6. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
Myself and another artist have been creating videos for children who may need entertaining during lockdown. We are called The Imagination Shakers. In true early-career artist style, I also have a side business in Spray Tanning! You can find me @SprayTansByEilish on both Facebook and Instagram.
claire rimington
Claire joined us early 2020 and she is well and truly part of the team now. She mostly works as a practitioner with our MFYT groups, but has also been involved with leading workshops during our Melva schools tour.
During lockdown, she created a really lovely character-making task, which you can find on our YouTube channel and is perfect for keeping young people entertained on a rainy day!
During lockdown, she created a really lovely character-making task, which you can find on our YouTube channel and is perfect for keeping young people entertained on a rainy day!
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
My name is Claire Rimington and I am a theatre maker and a facilitator, originally from Yorkshire. I studied at Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts graduating in 2019, and alongside my work with Mortal Fools Youth Theatre, I am also completing a Msc in International Development at Northumbria University
Q2. Tell us a bit more about what you’re working on at the moment, and where people can look out for you…
Alongside 2 of my fellow LIPA graduates, I am working to create a piece of verbatim theatre (project: Untitled) with our company:
Liminal Theatre Productions. You can also follow me on Instagram - @crimingtonarts
Q3. Describe the style of theatre or art you personally love to make in 4 words:
Political, Abstract, Poignant and Bold
Q4. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
I have strengths in directing, devising, improvisation and writing. I try to flex my imagination whilst creating workshops for the group I work with and try out new things. I also bring a huge passion and love for the styles of theatre Mortal Fools create.
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Working with Mortal Fools has been a wonderful experience so far, the team is close, and it really feels like I’m part of a lovely, vibrant community. My highlight so far has been working on the Melva Schools tour as a facilitator - the children’s responses were fantastic, and the content delivered such an important message. In the short time I’ve been working with MF I have been offered some great opportunities and I’m very excited for what’s ahead!
Q6. Describe Mortal Fools in 4 words:
Compassionate, Individual, Innovative and Community
My name is Claire Rimington and I am a theatre maker and a facilitator, originally from Yorkshire. I studied at Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts graduating in 2019, and alongside my work with Mortal Fools Youth Theatre, I am also completing a Msc in International Development at Northumbria University
Q2. Tell us a bit more about what you’re working on at the moment, and where people can look out for you…
Alongside 2 of my fellow LIPA graduates, I am working to create a piece of verbatim theatre (project: Untitled) with our company:
Liminal Theatre Productions. You can also follow me on Instagram - @crimingtonarts
Q3. Describe the style of theatre or art you personally love to make in 4 words:
Political, Abstract, Poignant and Bold
Q4. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
I have strengths in directing, devising, improvisation and writing. I try to flex my imagination whilst creating workshops for the group I work with and try out new things. I also bring a huge passion and love for the styles of theatre Mortal Fools create.
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Working with Mortal Fools has been a wonderful experience so far, the team is close, and it really feels like I’m part of a lovely, vibrant community. My highlight so far has been working on the Melva Schools tour as a facilitator - the children’s responses were fantastic, and the content delivered such an important message. In the short time I’ve been working with MF I have been offered some great opportunities and I’m very excited for what’s ahead!
Q6. Describe Mortal Fools in 4 words:
Compassionate, Individual, Innovative and Community
rachel horton
Rachel Horton (or as many people know her – The Culture Vulture) is our Business and Audience Development consultant. She is a uber-talented and supersonic multi-tasker and if we tried to go through everything Rachel does on a day-to-day basis, our heads would explode.
She is an invaluable member of the Mortal Fools team and a champion of freelancers all over the region.
She is an invaluable member of the Mortal Fools team and a champion of freelancers all over the region.
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
I’m The Culture Vulture , a creative champion and cultural adventurer with big hair and even bigger ideas. I’m a proud Northern lass who has built a business out of loving the Northern cultural scene - which is a corker. Like many freelancers, I have a lot of hats – I am most known for my marcomms, social media and events work.
I have worked with Mortal Fools for nearly 3 years as an audience development and marketing consultant. I am also currently working on business development, building profile for the company regionally and nationally, alongside relaunching the adult training programme as CONNECT.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
Holy moly! So many things! I recently ran my annual social media conference called Influencing in 2020 and it was a huge success/labour of love. Rosie Ramsey was the keynote speaker and she’s such a MEGA Instagram/Tik Tok/Podcasting legend so I had to pinch myself through-out the whole event.
Last year, I ran the campaign for Leonardo Da Vinci exhibition coming to Sunderland Museum & Winter Garden on behalf of Sunderland Culture; the campaign got National acclaim, as a freelancer doing something as high profile as that when other venues had big agencies, I was over the moon to be recognised.
Q3. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight for you…
Falling over at the Christmas party? (Less said about that the better…)
My highlight was Out There (www.mortalfools.org.uk/out-there) – textbook Mortal Fools having this brilliant ambitious idea, working with young people as co-creators to develop it and make it happen and delivering something so magic and memorable that people who saw and experienced it, still talk about it to this day.
I mention Out There specifically, as there this moment at the end where all the young people come together for this collective monologue to the audience and I felt the same goose bumps that I’ve felt when I’m with pals at a festival, when you know that what you’re experiencing is a shared memory for life.
Q4. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Lush…. I’ve never felt more valued, a part of something growing and important, seen, heard and the team are just uber talented. We are all different in skill set and it’s so magical. I’ve learnt so much through working with Mortal Fools and made genuine life-long friends who mean the world to me.
Q5. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
You can catch me on @theculturevulturene on Facebook and Insta and @reettinker on Twitter
I’m The Culture Vulture , a creative champion and cultural adventurer with big hair and even bigger ideas. I’m a proud Northern lass who has built a business out of loving the Northern cultural scene - which is a corker. Like many freelancers, I have a lot of hats – I am most known for my marcomms, social media and events work.
I have worked with Mortal Fools for nearly 3 years as an audience development and marketing consultant. I am also currently working on business development, building profile for the company regionally and nationally, alongside relaunching the adult training programme as CONNECT.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
Holy moly! So many things! I recently ran my annual social media conference called Influencing in 2020 and it was a huge success/labour of love. Rosie Ramsey was the keynote speaker and she’s such a MEGA Instagram/Tik Tok/Podcasting legend so I had to pinch myself through-out the whole event.
Last year, I ran the campaign for Leonardo Da Vinci exhibition coming to Sunderland Museum & Winter Garden on behalf of Sunderland Culture; the campaign got National acclaim, as a freelancer doing something as high profile as that when other venues had big agencies, I was over the moon to be recognised.
Q3. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight for you…
Falling over at the Christmas party? (Less said about that the better…)
My highlight was Out There (www.mortalfools.org.uk/out-there) – textbook Mortal Fools having this brilliant ambitious idea, working with young people as co-creators to develop it and make it happen and delivering something so magic and memorable that people who saw and experienced it, still talk about it to this day.
I mention Out There specifically, as there this moment at the end where all the young people come together for this collective monologue to the audience and I felt the same goose bumps that I’ve felt when I’m with pals at a festival, when you know that what you’re experiencing is a shared memory for life.
Q4. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Lush…. I’ve never felt more valued, a part of something growing and important, seen, heard and the team are just uber talented. We are all different in skill set and it’s so magical. I’ve learnt so much through working with Mortal Fools and made genuine life-long friends who mean the world to me.
Q5. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
You can catch me on @theculturevulturene on Facebook and Insta and @reettinker on Twitter
aileen kelly
Aileen has been working with Mortal Fools as a set and costume designer since our first touring production of Brainstorm in 2018. We knew we wanted to work with a professional designer for this show, and we felt really strongly about supporting somebody local and early career. Along came Aileen, and we’ve never looked back!
Since then, she’s worked on every show which has been part of the Young People’s Theatre Exchange Network - Brainstorm, I-Weigh and Relentless – and she nails it every time.
Since then, she’s worked on every show which has been part of the Young People’s Theatre Exchange Network - Brainstorm, I-Weigh and Relentless – and she nails it every time.
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
Hey, I’m Aileen and I am a Set and Costume Designer. I can also be found covered in paint when painting theatre sets, or covered in thread when dressing actors or fixing costumes. I love creating designs that are abstract, bold, surprising and relevant.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
Outside of theatre, I have worked as a Costume Carnival Artist for Stockton International Riverside Festival Carnival (SIRF) for four years. I run workshops within communities making costumes ready to wear for the festivals finale carnival - very fun day!
I've been lucky enough to work with the costume team for Andy and The Band (on CBBC iPlayer now), and I've also worked with the costume team for CBeebies live on A Midsummer Night's Dream and Hansel and Gretel – where, uniquely, theatre meets TV!
I have one or two exciting theatre designs that will hopefully emerge after the new year, so keep an eye out...
Q3. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what was that like?
Brainstorm in spring 2018 was the very first time I worked with Mortal Fools. It was a play that I was unfamiliar with – part devised, part scripted - but it was actually a great way to warm me up for the next show, I-Weigh, where it was fully devised with no script at all!
I loved the first conversation with Helen (Director) and Sian (Assistant Director) where it was really open and honest. It gave me clear direction and I particularly liked the final design around the 'have you ever' game where we created anonymous light boxes (see image) - oh how I love a multi-purpose set!
Q4. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
I’d say problem solving - I am prepared for things that might need changing or fixing. This can often happen during final rehearsals and being adaptable is definitely a skill that’s needed for designers. Having training specifically in design and making, I bring a practical skill set that is unique to the job, as well as a different perspective for the team.
I am a very visual person so love a moodboard, collage or a model box - I find these particularly useful when expressing my design ideas to the team.
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
I feel like I am part of a great team who all want the same thing - to make a great show! It is a supportive place to work, everyone is a team player and knowing you’re all working for the same reason makes it a real pleasure.
Q6. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
www.aileenkellydesign.co.uk
Instagram @aileenekelly
Hey, I’m Aileen and I am a Set and Costume Designer. I can also be found covered in paint when painting theatre sets, or covered in thread when dressing actors or fixing costumes. I love creating designs that are abstract, bold, surprising and relevant.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
Outside of theatre, I have worked as a Costume Carnival Artist for Stockton International Riverside Festival Carnival (SIRF) for four years. I run workshops within communities making costumes ready to wear for the festivals finale carnival - very fun day!
I've been lucky enough to work with the costume team for Andy and The Band (on CBBC iPlayer now), and I've also worked with the costume team for CBeebies live on A Midsummer Night's Dream and Hansel and Gretel – where, uniquely, theatre meets TV!
I have one or two exciting theatre designs that will hopefully emerge after the new year, so keep an eye out...
Q3. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what was that like?
Brainstorm in spring 2018 was the very first time I worked with Mortal Fools. It was a play that I was unfamiliar with – part devised, part scripted - but it was actually a great way to warm me up for the next show, I-Weigh, where it was fully devised with no script at all!
I loved the first conversation with Helen (Director) and Sian (Assistant Director) where it was really open and honest. It gave me clear direction and I particularly liked the final design around the 'have you ever' game where we created anonymous light boxes (see image) - oh how I love a multi-purpose set!
Q4. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools Associate team?
I’d say problem solving - I am prepared for things that might need changing or fixing. This can often happen during final rehearsals and being adaptable is definitely a skill that’s needed for designers. Having training specifically in design and making, I bring a practical skill set that is unique to the job, as well as a different perspective for the team.
I am a very visual person so love a moodboard, collage or a model box - I find these particularly useful when expressing my design ideas to the team.
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
I feel like I am part of a great team who all want the same thing - to make a great show! It is a supportive place to work, everyone is a team player and knowing you’re all working for the same reason makes it a real pleasure.
Q6. Where should people look out for you to see more of your work?
www.aileenkellydesign.co.uk
Instagram @aileenekelly
michael gooch
Profile coming soon...
taylor howie
Profile coming soon...
anna ryder
Anna is a really talented director and creative facilitator, currently based in London. She joined the Mortal Fools team in 2017, and whilst in the North-East worked with us as a facilitator for our adult training programme, and directed 2 our professional theatre shows – MELVA written by Danielle Burn, and STUPID written and performed by Sian Armstrong.
Anna also works as a script reader, dramaturg and facilitator and regularly runs creative writing workshops with young people and students – much like the rest of our associate team, she has many strings to her bow and is super passionate about everything she does.
Thanks to the magic of technology, Anna has been able to continue working with Mortal Fools throughout lockdown on our adult training programme – delivering various online sessions with individuals and organisations as part of CONNECT, our digital training offer.
Anna also works as a script reader, dramaturg and facilitator and regularly runs creative writing workshops with young people and students – much like the rest of our associate team, she has many strings to her bow and is super passionate about everything she does.
Thanks to the magic of technology, Anna has been able to continue working with Mortal Fools throughout lockdown on our adult training programme – delivering various online sessions with individuals and organisations as part of CONNECT, our digital training offer.
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
I’m a freelance theatre director and creative facilitator. I’ve been working with Mortal Fools since 2017. I regularly facilitate on their CONNECT communication workshops both in person and digitally. I directed the first outing of MELVA in Mortal Fools Pop-Up Front Street Theatre on Prudhoe High Street, which was just magical!
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
I am also an Associate Artist with Live Theatre in the region and I specialise in directing new writing for the stage. I love working with writers from the start of their ideas right through to opening night. I have recently been working for the RSC as an Assistant Director on their Winter Swan Season. I worked on a production of King John and of a new play, The Whip by Juliet Gilkes Romero. It was an absolute dream come true.
Q3. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what was that like?
I think the first project must have been a communication workshop at Northern Stage in 2017. I really enjoy those sessions as you get to meet people from all over the North East and we manage to have some really in depth and honest conversations. They are all about working with people and exploring why we behave the way that we do, which I find fascinating and really liberating.
Q4. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight…
The first time we put Melva in front of an audience of children. Danielle had blessed us with such a witty and sensitive script and it was our job to translate that to the stage. Until you have an audience there, it is impossible to know exactly what you have made. Hearing the school group laugh where we had hoped and hearing them still talking about the characters afterwards was so brilliant, but I think I held my breath through the whole show!
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Mortal Fools are just brilliant. Always pushing you to try new things and grow out of your comfort zone. I love a challenge and they are always keen to support big ideas.
Q6. Where should people look to see more of your work?
https://www.annarydertheatre.co.uk/
Twitter: @anna_ryder
I’m a freelance theatre director and creative facilitator. I’ve been working with Mortal Fools since 2017. I regularly facilitate on their CONNECT communication workshops both in person and digitally. I directed the first outing of MELVA in Mortal Fools Pop-Up Front Street Theatre on Prudhoe High Street, which was just magical!
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
I am also an Associate Artist with Live Theatre in the region and I specialise in directing new writing for the stage. I love working with writers from the start of their ideas right through to opening night. I have recently been working for the RSC as an Assistant Director on their Winter Swan Season. I worked on a production of King John and of a new play, The Whip by Juliet Gilkes Romero. It was an absolute dream come true.
Q3. What was the first project you worked on with Mortal Fools and what was that like?
I think the first project must have been a communication workshop at Northern Stage in 2017. I really enjoy those sessions as you get to meet people from all over the North East and we manage to have some really in depth and honest conversations. They are all about working with people and exploring why we behave the way that we do, which I find fascinating and really liberating.
Q4. Tell us about a Mortal Fools highlight…
The first time we put Melva in front of an audience of children. Danielle had blessed us with such a witty and sensitive script and it was our job to translate that to the stage. Until you have an audience there, it is impossible to know exactly what you have made. Hearing the school group laugh where we had hoped and hearing them still talking about the characters afterwards was so brilliant, but I think I held my breath through the whole show!
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Mortal Fools are just brilliant. Always pushing you to try new things and grow out of your comfort zone. I love a challenge and they are always keen to support big ideas.
Q6. Where should people look to see more of your work?
https://www.annarydertheatre.co.uk/
Twitter: @anna_ryder
corrie livesey
Corrie is a pretty new addition to the Mortal Fools Team, but she’s already proved herself INCREDIBLY talented, hard working, and a general joy to be around. She started out working with us as Stage Manager and Re-lighter on the Spring 2020 tour of ‘Relentless’ that wasn’t meant to be, but we’ve been really pleased to have the chance to continue working with her on our digital projects over Summer 2020.
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Q1. Introduce yourself!
I’m Corrie and I’m a theatre technician! I’ve worked on a couple of projects with Mortal Fools. I was due to go on tour with Relentless as a Stage Manager/Relighter and I have recently been working as a technician on the When the World is Loud and Melva online projects.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
I have just graduated from university, studying Stage Management & Technical Theatre. My main focus currently is working within Sound. I love the idea of working alongside creatives to bring a big picture to life and to help create interesting and engaging pieces of work.
Q3. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools team?
I have an eye for detail, and I am often overly organised! I also try to be as prepared as possible (you’ll never catch me without pens, pencils and many rolls of tape!).
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Fun and exciting! I have never experienced a dull day whilst working with Mortal Fools. There is also a great sense of teamwork, mutual respect and genuine caring, which I think is so important when working so closely together at times!
Q5. Where should people look to see more of your work?
Watch this space!
I’m Corrie and I’m a theatre technician! I’ve worked on a couple of projects with Mortal Fools. I was due to go on tour with Relentless as a Stage Manager/Relighter and I have recently been working as a technician on the When the World is Loud and Melva online projects.
Q2. Tell us a bit more about you as an artist…
I have just graduated from university, studying Stage Management & Technical Theatre. My main focus currently is working within Sound. I love the idea of working alongside creatives to bring a big picture to life and to help create interesting and engaging pieces of work.
Q3. What sort of skills do you bring to the Mortal Fools team?
I have an eye for detail, and I am often overly organised! I also try to be as prepared as possible (you’ll never catch me without pens, pencils and many rolls of tape!).
Q5. What’s it like working with Mortal Fools?
Fun and exciting! I have never experienced a dull day whilst working with Mortal Fools. There is also a great sense of teamwork, mutual respect and genuine caring, which I think is so important when working so closely together at times!
Q5. Where should people look to see more of your work?
Watch this space!
eilidh talman
Profile coming soon...
