Writer Timothy Knapman and composer and lyricist Laurence Mark Wythe are busy working on the script for Corby’s new musical, but have taken time out to tell us about themselves.
What’s your biggest achievement?
LMW: Apart from my two beautiful daughters, my biggest achievement is my show Tomorrow Morning which has played all round the world, has been translated into several languages, won a best musical award and has played on four continents. Not many new British shows achieve that kind of success!
TK: I’m proudest when something I’ve written can make an audience laugh and cry. I was told Japanese audiences don’t do either, so I was delighted when they did both at a performance of one of my shows in Tokyo.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
LMW: When we got the job to write the show for Corby, that was inspiration in itself – a date for opening night is the biggest reason you can have to sit down and work, the pressure is really on! But you can produce your best work when the deadline is imminent. Everything starts with what Tim and I come up with…that’s exciting and scary in equal measure.
TK: Inspiration can come from anywhere, that’s why you must be open to, and curious about, everything – but there’s no greater inspiration than knowing that what you write will be performed in front of an audience.
What are you most looking forward to about working on Danny Hero?
LMW: I love writing with Tim because I think we bring out the best in each other’s work. Beyond that, it’ll be working in the Core Theatre itself – it’s a beautiful auditorium and I am really looking forward to having my work coming to life on that stage for you.
TK: I’m looking forward to working with Laurence, who is always so full of ideas, melodies and good cheer, and to October when our show will get to meet the people it’s been made for – the people of Corby.
You can see a sneak peek of Danny Hero on Monday February 22nd at 7pm – visit www.thecorecorby.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01536 470470 for book your ticket.