Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration by talking to people and hearing their stories. It always amazes me how even the simplest life story contains so much insight into wider social, cultural and political affairs. I was lucky enough to work with Ann Jellicoe, the originator of the community play movement which was so influential in the eighties and nineties, whilst I was at school. This experience absolutely shaped what I would go on to do. As someone who had been interested in history, the idea that theatre could be used as a way to work with place-based communities to explore their shared heritage started my off on a path that led to me working on a huge number of community theatre projects, and in exploring the texts of community play scripts for a PhD.

What advice would you give to anyone who wants to be an artist in Northamptonshire?

As someone who has lived and worked in Nottingham for most of my professional life, I can’t give any advice that is specific to Northamptonshire. But I would say that it’s not an easy life, at least in terms of being able to generate a living income; and I’m sure it’s getting harder. I’ve managed to keep going by always having lots of things on the go at any one time, which can be difficult, but it is essential. Of course, you can absolutely be an artist without trying to earn an income from it, and perhaps my advice would be to think of becoming an artist in that way. I suppose if you try and earn your crust as an artist you may find yourself, as you have to, collaborating with other artists which is always an opportunity to continue to learn new skills.

Do you have any memories of Made With Many Projects that are important to you?

Again, as someone from outside of the county, I’ve not had any engagement with Made With Many before now. But the ethos of the organisation is one that Excavate has been working to for a quarter of a century.

What is your favourite biscuit?

Does a Tunnock’s caramel wafer count?