Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

Tomorrow

2010-03-17T15:37:00.000-07:00

I've read and understood this play on so many different levels in three days. I've also read it, and not understood it.

Our journey has well and truly begun. Today was a unique. A day with no biscuits, plenty of sitting and script reading, re-reading and re-reading again. Coffee, water and a lot of laughs. Trying to work out who these two men are. Or are they still just 18.

Tara was upstairs. It was strange talking about her character,this women,knowing that she was sat above us.

Tomorrow is another layer. She enters. The energy changes. What on earth will happen...

Day Before

2010-03-14T14:37:00.000-07:00

We're all looking forward to tomorrow now. We had a new young lady join the cast last week, we take pleasure in introducing Tara Carozza to the Yaller fold.

I respect anyone who has the inner strength to stand on the stage, but Tara welcome to you. The Old Red burns with nervous energy. If we get this right I truly believe it'll be incredibly special. Guys watch out...this gal is good!

Julia, I already feel comfortable before we even start. I'm looking forward to finding out who this guy is, stretching myself and beating myself up with your care and attention.

Excited anticipation, ready to go and feeling wealthy this evening. All good things to feel before a production begins to take it's first steps.

David, Kira, Tom, Malcolm and Am's...I'm ready with the exact feeling I left "Back of the Throat" with. Cheers, the fact that I can recognise this feeling is down to you guys.

The rest of you, and you know who you are...Richard, Damien, Gabriela (our new designer) Helen at the Old Red and Mr Belber, I thank you in advance for getting back in the boat with us.

Kevin my old pal....you learnt them lines yet....

Here we go....

Inherited Thinking!

2009-03-29T09:37:00.000-07:00

I've always prided myself on the fact that I try not to inherit thinking. I mean I allow myself to be passed knowledge from various people, my Mum and Dad to name a couple of the most important, but I rarely take someones ideas on a subject and accept them as my own.

Always asking questions...that slight whirring sound that on occasion gives you a headache. All this until recently.

I stopped. I finally took a look at a situation and thought I'm not even going to question it. The situation itself took place at a story telling night.

My good friend Christopher Lochery had put on his first in London at our old home The Old Red Lion. And I was going to tell a story at it. A personal story, one that I'd not told in a public place before. Personal in that it was to do with my involvement with a young lady. Tragic in it's infancy yet now more of a historic comedy.

I arrived at The Old Red and was instantly swept towards my old friends Shep and Lork at the bar. It had dawned on me that soon I would be telling an audience of a classic male mistakethat I made in the attempt to read a women. This short burst ending in quite a prolific journey.

Would they judge me? How do I come across in the story? Do I make her sound bad? Will it be funny? Will I shake nervously like a man who has just realised his greatest mistake? Will they be sympathetic? Shit...will the women in the audience pity me or think I'm a sad bastard?Will the blokes think i'm usless. Am I dressed ok? How many pints have I had? Christ what does that word mean, and why has it just popped into my head?

Ahhh....this used to be me! But not anymore. On this evening surrounded by complete strangers I didn't care. Whilst a lot of people around me were stressing out about the length of their words, and the punchlines with punctuation thrown in for some sort of comedy stand up effect my brain stopped working.

I just simply told the story as I remembered it. I didn't inherit any of the pretense performers get before public speaking, non of the desire to succeed and not fail. No particular desire to make people feel a certain way. Honesty.

I'd finished. People clapped. I walked of for another half time pint! I'm glad I had that experience and had managed to shake my usual inherited thinking from... myself. Damn it! I've been inheriting thinking all along. My own. Time to change that I think. Life truly is on the clock!

I carry you around!

2009-01-10T04:04:00.000-08:00

It's been a while!!

Um...port! Lot's of port! I'm not in the RAF, I don't pass to the left and I'd rather sit in silence than talk bull shit!

Having said that the blog is an excellent venture for me. I like questions. I don't necessarily need answers. So what comes out of my mouth is almost certainly all my bull shit as I so eloquently put it.

What's the key word here?

We put on a play in which I learned more about myself and my own knowledge than I think I've ever been allowed. Don't get me wrong, we are allowed to do what we want to do most of the time, in fact as amazing as we are, one of the things that I feel defines us as a special species is that when we close our eyes we are free. We are allowed to do what we want!!

We fill (and are filled) by knowledge. Our self learning. The voice in our head unstopping in it's relentless strive for comfort. Close those eyes and everything is just that little bit easier. Now open them!!

When I looked at the script for "Back of the Throat" ( put in front of me by Kevin) I saw an excellent read. I went into rehearsal with preconceived ideas. My tiny head filled to the rafters with personal thought, actors thoughts, company thoughts, food thoughts, what bus am I going to catch thoughts...etc!!

After a week I was a different man. This is because I was surrounded by people that give and are giving of time! I'm talking about a group of people that put their self knowledge to one side. They put their comfort to one side to allow me to venture. My thoughts were going all over the place and I felt completely comfortable.

What I found with this company was so much more than just a production. As an actor there are things I would change, my knowledge as an actor leads me down many different paths. In deed I'd like to see a more methodical Carl, I'd like to change the tie, what he eats and what transport he takes. My feeling is that I could have done. It was more than just a production because I, comfort aside was allowed to find it. The voice in my head ceased or changed. It was saying different things. In short I'd put everything in. I was given back!

Thank you for your respect and friendship! From Kira (birthday girl) cookies! The Kanje Port and punctuation. (That's your book title mate!) Am's your trust, Super Malc your leadership and David...most of all a book of knowledge who kept his pages turning i thank you for making it so!

What's the key word? Almost! I'm alive. I'm not there yet where ever there may be! I've just answered one of my own questions haven't I!! I told you it was bull shit!

Here's to you Neville, for today my thoughts stay with Martin and family! But it's great to know that I've chosen so!

Thank you!

2008-07-05T03:01:00.000-07:00

The day the bombs went of I had swapped a shift at work (a restaurant in South Kensington) with a flat mate. This meant that I avoided the carnage and was left at home like so many to watch and let the confusion descend into the deep routed suspicion of the 21st century.

The initial power serge was supplanted in such away that you always knew that something else was going on. Phones went silent, the news readers were talking with bafflement and not their usual direct paper shuffling voice of the world.

It had begun.

A week later I was sat on a bus at Victoria, in a ten minute frenzy the police had stormed the bus. Sixty + people had rushed to get off in lightening quick time as the words "Bomb on the bus!" were thrown around with frightening truth and expertise. There was no bomb. There was no threat. There was a poor young Arab boy in floods of tears being escorted from the bus like the red transport were some prison cage for animals. We a crowd of 59 + irrationally frightened commuters realised there and then what July 7th had set in motion.

It was a very sad day.

We've produced the play "In my Name" by Steven Hevey which is enjoying a great transfer into the West End at Trafalgar Studio 2 from the sell out run at The Old Red Lion.

With clear and present danger rife in London at present life is very uncertain. This has been brought to our companies door recently as Ray Panthaki (who plays Royal) in the play is the boy friend of Brooke Kinsella whose brother was stabbed last weekend. We at Yaller Skunk would just like to offer our love and support to the Kinsella family. Ray is an incredibly strong person and we'd like to thank him for his commitment to us through this terrible time. Our thoughts are with you.

We'd also like to dedicate this weeks performances to those people who lost there lives in the bomb attack on July 7th 2007. In peace we trust!

Thank you to everyone for your work with this production. And may we all feel free and content in every walk of life!

The changing mantra!

2008-06-15T04:03:00.000-07:00

"Everyone has their own personal catch phrase, or a lyric or something that inspires them. Whether they doodle it on their text books in school, or use it in every day conversation, these phrases may have the ability to inspire and encourage us to be more confident or believe in ourselves." (Shores LTD)

Known as the mantra, this is a very useful tool for the actor. I've recently carried out some workshops using this to personify a characters personality. Also i've begun to look for mantras in different scenes. (A scenes personality.)

As we intend to go back into The Old Red Lion in Sept-Oct 2008 with the hit American play "Back of the Throat" my thoughts turn to the producing of this script into a quality play to follow in the success of "In my Name" (About to open at Trafalgar Studios.) Happy I am to say that I can simply look at this one with an actors eyes.

Myself and Kevin are pleasantly enjoying company life at the moment. We have a nice mixture of work coming our way and it has been a delight watching the development of the In my Name company.

Sitting (as I have) on the periphery and wearing the producers hat to keep the sun out of my eyes has been an incredible journey of discovery.

I've watched as a DSM on the play "Bad Blood" and i've enjoyed making decisions about good and bad theatre acting in many different workshops both as a participant and leader. All in preparation for "the next time."

So now it befalls that i am to tread the boards again. And so the work begins.

This is what it's all about. We just keep plugging forwards. Taking on different roles, knocking on many different doors and presenting ourselves and the company as honestly as possible.

"Back of the Throat" is a hard hitting look at the post 9/11 America. Two FBI agents begin a harmless interrogation with a Muslim suspect. The play moves effortlessly from inquisitive and smile faced intrusion, to paranoid suspicion.

As the work begins to bring the character to life the mantra is a tool that i'm finding very useful. Finding a phrase or sound for Carl is going to be a tricky job. He is mixed up in a lot of confusion and it is possible I think that his mantra is changeable. How many of us have sat on the tube when it grinds to a halt and we are left for 30 minutes wandering who everyone else is on the train? The train then starts up again and we are left feeling guilty for our suspicion as we realise that it was brought on by irrational fear. Why should anyone else suffer at the hands of our own confusion.

With "be vigilant" signs popping up every where as eye candy for the suspicious world that we now live in I realise what terrorism has managed to do to our weird and wonderful world. My heart sinks. This was never about a body count. Mass destruction is just icing. They've struck at the very heart and mind link of human nature.

"Why put on these hard hitting plays" someone asked me two days ago.

Well...as we strive for contentment there is some cathartic level of discovery in researching this topic. A topic that if i'm honest i'm scared of. How do we get over our fears?? We meet them head on. I'm going to meet this internal, irrational and permanently looming fear and i'm going to smile in it's face. And this is an actors dream.

Yes the play deals with relationships, character interaction and all the visceral and visual components that befalls great and interesting acting. But more importantly it deals with things we can't see. For Carl to work i'll need to sort out what's going on inside his head before anything else happens. That's what we signed up for.

Cheers for the mantra! Mine is singing today. xx

REVIEWS:

“…[a] brilliant and sinewy new play.” —The New Yorker.

“BACK OF THE THROAT could be the post-9/11 play we’ve been waiting for: the sum of all our domestic fears, played for uneasy laughs and piercing dread.” —NY Newsday.

“BACK OF THE THROAT plays like a section of the U.S. Patriot Act as dramatized by David Mamet and Franz Kafka.” —American Theatre Magazine.

“…chillingly plausible vision…captures the Strangelovian logic of feds as well as the more subtle paranoia that afflicts us all.” —Seattle Weekly.

“Wickedly funny…surely to be remembered as a valuable contribution to the post-9/11 canon of plays.” —New City (Chicago).

“BACK OF THE THROAT is a must see for anyone who loves good theatre…” — Chicago Magazine.

Nothing sinister going on!

2008-04-12T05:44:00.000-07:00

I'm writing today as I've begun research into a longstanding idea I've had about writing/devising a play based on identity in Peterborough.

I want it known from the outset that I appreciate delicacy. I don't believe in telling stories that are best left untold. Whether that is because they are potentially hurtful to individuals or whether somethings are best left to myth or legend and left for a people who are quiet in their council. In short I realise that somethings are deeply routed in a personal feeling and should be left that way.

In researching the idea for this story "In the eyes of the beholder" (a story set to look at change through the eyes of a local resident) I am only at this stage assessing it's potential.

The local press have agreed to write an article about this story as the idea surrounds a local triumph. A man known as Nobby.

My knowledge of him began as a young boy. My parents won't be pleased to hear me use this phrase but I would just 'hang around' cathedral square on a Saturday and watch as this gentleman with a tramps exterior would slowly walk around gathering cigarette ends. Even then I would offer him some of my own cigarettes. ( again I hear my parents grown) Well I barely knew what to do with them.

How could a man so calm and yet so alone seem so content.

I later realized that this man had a home. And that he was accepted by his neighbors. A simple enough concept. Yet for any young male growing up a concept still to be learnt.

"He lives in a bus shelter! But how!"

As the years past and I blundered my way through adolescent soul searching I would often think of Nobby down in his home. I'd heard stories about how he came to be in his situation. Even then I remember a massive sense of 'let him be.'

I agreed.

I would on occasion cycle past him on my way down to Dusty Bowl at Ferry Meadows. I began to speak to him asking him if he was OK. Not knowing why, but feeling compelled to.

After a while I began to read news papers. I stumbled onto an article that suggested he was a keen golfer and I decided I'd drop of some golf balls at his shelter. I'd begun to take him to my heart. But still I always knew there was a limit as to how far I should impose my curiosity on this man.

He was happy after all. "What if he isn't though!" I'd ask myself.

Some fifteen years later and I'm still a young boy filled with the same curiosity. I've made some choices and for the most part am happy with those choices and their outcomes.

Progress is being made in one such area of my life, and I find myself back at 15. Sitting next to a circular flower pot wandering where our friend has gone. The people in the town center seem different. I don't recognize any of them. In some cases I don't recognize their language. They are interesting and welcome but still something is lost.

Should I create this one up? Will people be interested? Is it best left to a childhood memory? Maybe! Only a few people can answer that question.

One of which is Mr Michael Ross.

MC

I'll take today!

2008-04-06T05:09:00.000-07:00

I strut through the park, and I suppose that gives me an aroma of arrogance. I'm not, but today my head is held high and my chest is finding a natural place 'forwards.'

It's got nothing to do with backing the winner, nor have the tempting devil's of my inner most thoughts lead me to that place where only ladders will get me out. This is something else.

I know I felt at some point as though there were a million little workers in my body, all pulling little threads. These threads are attached to ropes that if you follow them to their ends, you find the civil organs of the body. I'm not saying that the other organs are pointless, in fact the opposite! For, much like a Cello needs a strong bridge they work effortlessly, and unnoticed.

These civil organs are mixed and complex instruments. They beat, they are like train stations as blood rushes through them, one is the capital, the other is like a festival.

As the workers pull back there individual strings these organs sound out loud and clear. I can all of a sudden feel my pupils. A gong sounds, I am breathless and perspiration becomes a haze that floats around my head, like a bumble bee to a nest. The train stations roar, the crescendo peaks as the head worker in coat tails waves his sticks.

A pause....

It is over...

The workers relax. One lone little dude in a melee of panting, looks around. "Yipee" he mutters. Workers as people now begin to follow the leader. First with no commitment and then with gusto as it spreads. "Yipee, yipee yipee!!!" "Yip f**king ee!!!"

A chaotic relaxation exhumes as the never stopping stations power on. The strings still in hand are relaxed, as the dramatic moment ceases the ropes lay silent.

Then, there is a slow sound. A surrounding echo. The workers heads prick up like a dogs ears alert to the sound of nearby curiosity. The sound comes again! Louder! It moves like hurricane with no wind, the workers take up the strain. The stations speed up.

Here we go again.....

I awake, I've slept well, long and silent. Every part of me is relaxed and soft. The stations are quiet.

Overcoming fear and standing up to your own inadequacy's are worth more than a run on the treadmill.

MC

The new era.

2008-04-04T04:25:00.000-07:00

I'm at a moment in a film, i'm settled, i'm relaxed i'm beginning to unwind, the film is good. I contemplate reaching for some food, I take my eyes of the screen just for a moment as I look to the well prepared plate. My appetite beginning with my eye full. I reach and grab just like a crane, it's delicate and precise, a very specific movement. As it draws the vision towards my mouth. The eyes flit upwards back towards the screen, yes..i've not missed a second of my viewing pleasure.....

Bolloks. Yes I have. A quick confusion kicks in. Momentary as the penny drops...it's an advert.

Alright, like most lads I can forgive the channel 4 stream of adverts. For one in five remind me to get up and get a can of stella from the fridge.

But honestly they were really starting to bug me. So much so I had to sit down and examine why I was getting annoyed.

I think that my basic annoyance besides the constant interruption to my cotching, (erm.. yes that's right i said cotching,) is that most adverts aren't very good. They don't inspire me to buy a product, they don't tell a story and they very rarely make me smile.

Um...maybe I should make some of my own. I thought my tiny brain bouncing around it's shell like peanut stuck inside a walnuts body. This will stop me having yet another thing to moan about as I descend into grumpy middle aged man.

Well we did say we could turn our head to anything. This is our first attempt. Now it doesn't promote anything and there is no story, or is there. A series will follow.

youtube, the new home of advert making.
MC

Hi ya mate!!

2008-04-02T02:58:00.000-07:00

It's great to look around and see people doing well. And i thought I should keep you up to speed.

Robert Maskell (Someone Who'll Watch Over Me) is in The Sound of Music in the Westend. He is cover for 'Max.' I saw it a month ago and him in the role. Laughed my ass of!!

Kev and the boys up at The Old Red Lion, I believe I've already mentioned that achievement.

Mr Peter Brad-Leigh (Neville's Island) is rolling in and out of tele work. Rhys is working down at the Chichester Festival Theatre.

Even young Danny Box (SM) is working in town on Les Mis.

All we need now is myself and Darren Hillda Hill to crack the pop idol world and we've nailed it.
What do you reckon Darren, Robson and Jerome, or Adam and the Ants?

Go on the boys... huh hum....sorry and Georgia. xx

Great days aren't just about rainbows!

2008-03-31T07:41:00.001-07:00

I walked up the stairs tired and with sore legs, but also with a multistory car park sized feeling of pride. What have I got to be so prideful about? Kev's done it! He's only gone and nailed it. I never knew this type of pride existed, after all I've had little to do with this one. Ahh, but then I know the bloke. And with the bit between his teeth I knew what the outcome should be. I am proud of him.

"In my Name" by Steven Hevey a two act play opened at The Old Red Lion Islington last Tuesday evening. The reviews are great, the performances are great, the set design is great and the play is great.

"Wow..It has our name to it. And I think it's one of those moments in life where you can see doors opening up in front of you. My partner, ladies and gentlemen. Mr Kevin Watt. He doesn't just open doors he kicks the buggers down and makes a really loud noise. And...he doesn't flinch."

Those of you that were there on Sunday in the rapt capacity crowd will realise I speak literally as well metaphorically when I discuss Kevin's door breaking antics. It was in this following moment that the whole afternoon came together like shavings to a magnet.

The moment I speak of: Kevin grabs the door frame and begins doing pull ups when (as though a timed and rehearsed moment) he wrenched the frame from the wall and landed smack bang on his knees.

The audience braced with a grimace. We each held a shared breath as we expected a burst of noise and pain from Kevin's chops. The moment seemed to last for an age. Nothing came. He looked as though nothing had happened. No flutter of the eye lids, no tweak in the corner of the mouth, nothing. He looked as his character would have done, lost in his own world. There were darker things going on here. Christ...then it all came flooding back.

Of course I'm biased. Kevin is my friend, he is also someone I respect on many different levels. Well he's found a new one.

I remember a night out in a casino back last July where me and Steve (Writer) and Kevin sat and discussed all these goings on. Listening to Steve and Kevin chat there was no doubt in my mind that they would follow this through.

You could hear it in the way Steve spoke of the play, (or at the time a play in progress) that it was going to walk itself all the way to the finish line. Me and Steve sat eating the free sandwiches as Kev went of to play a game of chance roulette, and I knew that this would be a winner just by the way he spoke about Kevin, the project and the vision.

You see if Kevin had turned in a bad performance, I wouldn't have had to tell him. He would have already known. So I can't really be biased on that score. But Kevin put all those people together in one place at one time. He trusted the play, his instincts and those around him. That's a talent in itself.

I think what Steve has managed to do quite magnificently in this play is to capture the astonishment that young Londoners felt from that day July 7th 2005. A sense of something we can't fight. A sense of suspicion and fear that grows in all of us and takes us (if we let it) to a very disturbing place. I guess it's something that will always now be there.

As ever Georgia has designed a set to match. The hidden prints on the wall were just the right addition to the production, where, it would have been easy to over do it. Again though Georgia always comes up with the nuts.

The cast were uniformly brilliant. James Alexandrou (Eastenders) Ray Panthaki (28 days later) and Adeel Akhtar all turning in performances that helped remind me of that feeling. Almost as if someone is watching you. A kind of weird and unspoken fascination for the way things have transpired. If you get a chance to read Brian Keenan's book "An Evil Cradling" he describes these kind of sensory feelings as coming from his captors nearly at every turn. Again without drawing reference to them.

In short, Kevin put all that together. And whats more is he's selling out. The play, the named cast, the design, the sound, the direction and of course the venue all turned into yet another notch on the skunks belt.

Sitting in the audience watching a close friend go out to play with some other guys isn't easy. This was always Kev's project. But you can't help but feel a tinge of jealousy as he takes to the stage with great actors, oh, sorry Kev not just great actors but named great actors. Yet in that moment, bang!!!...The frame came away from the door, and I was there. July 7th 2005

So yes, as I walked to the top of Greenwich Park (and looked out at a small rainbow forming Blackheath way) I was proud. Proud of my partners ambition, skill and vision. Proud to be a part of an continuously amazing company.

I've got to say though..this one's all his. Well done mate.

Crazy fun people.

2008-03-04T03:26:00.000-08:00

Hello,

You know someone said to me recently "What is the point." "Erm..the point of what." I asked him.

He tuts, "Just whats the point!"

I've been thinking about this ever since. I think it's good to think about these thing every now and again.

So what is the point, of living and working towards something etc!

Well take yesterday for example, I started at a point, a point of nothing in particular. my coffee was good, I wrote a few letters to further my career. I went for a walk to stretch my legs. Nice!! But nothing was really going on. If i'd been asked "What you up too." One of our favorite mouth moving brain by pass questions, I'd have answered with an equally non committed raised eye brow, "Not a lot."

Then I went to the 606 club to see a friend sing. As I sat there, enchanted by the live experience, I couldn't help look around the room at the crowd of on lookers, there in support, expectation, enthralled openness to be entertained and to see other like minded people.

The looks on everyones faces were so different. People listening intently, whispering into each others ears. Subconsciously tapping there hands away on the chair next to them as they stretch out the days ordeals. faces of realization, the face of laughter, fun and mischief.

The face giving of a sparkle that comes from someone else's eye, and then effortlessly passes it on. the inquisitive face. The face of a thousand stories. The face trying to go unnoticed. The face of underlining beautiful sadness, and the face unforgiving in it's clear joy.

At which point i smiled to myself. Sure I'd missed mothers day recently, but i can't wait to share this with her. Then the music changed tempo. I looked around again. It was like being in a toy shop. All the faces were changed, as though now i had control of a secret button. I could flick between the two. one stored in the memory, one there in front of me.

I began to blink, slow at first, then a little quicker. Dashing between the picture in my head and the pictures all around the room. Then my eyes fell on her.

She looked straight at me. my heart let of a deep pound. "Thump." Her head began to drift away. But her eyes stayed. She was now facing her friend. Her whisper was at the ready, and still her eyes laid on me, laying down deep into my head like a soft comfortable bed. Then the smile. Then it was over.

I didn't get up and speak to this vision. I should have. I was entrapped by an evening of relentless fulfillment. My cup was over flowing.

I was with friends, a friend was performing, her voice like a the way we want our voices in our heads to sound. So much happening in a small room. So many moments and near moments.

The singing ended. It was late, we all ran to get our tubes home. We got in. I went up stairs, everything was as i'd left it. Computer, desk and paper work. I smiled.

"What's the point." I thought. "The point is the start of the day. The rest of it has had more of curved feel."

MC

Fix on the brain.

2008-02-20T03:11:00.000-08:00

You know that when people have no money, even the buying of cheap toilet role becomes a breaking the bank saga.

I to can feel the lonely pound coin burning a tennis ball sized hole in my pocket as I contemplate where to stick this last weighty piece of gold.

"Ummm...Some drum sticks."

Now I don't mean waiting until the clock passes into a new day and then popping down the fruit humps to claim the left over chicken drummers that Mr Kebabies is about to throw out for the foxes.

Nope I mean those chewy sweets.

Yep my last pound and I would spend it on a chewy lolly.

Bare with me I'll explain.

I've just spent the weekend with my family and after a very relaxing couple of days I was left to ponder on the goings on of the weekend. Now myself and my sister have always had a very strong and loving relationship. And therefore anyone who comes into contact with her is welcome into the family with welcome arms.

She is now married and this has given me an amazing new set of friends. It occurred to me though that when I was younger I always used to feel older and more responsible for her than today where i definitely find myself feeling more child like.

I live with friends and at present have no young lady in toe, therefore my responsibilities are largely non existent.

I enjoy being the younger brother, I enjoy the role of clownish side show and I enjoy the chewy drum stick!

It's to bad we have to grow up though isn't it.

We were talking about sideways steps in life and getting on through life. And I guess this is what made me think on this years future.

We need to take some very definite steps. I know we have a lot of work coming up, and I'd like to carry it all out with energy and decisive planning, organizing, leading and controlling.

We could be top of our game, people should be saying "Wow there is a new company around and they are really bloody good."

Ideas are great and the gimmicks and clever ideas on a shoe string come as part of that. But you can't have these with out solid foundations.

I'm not talking about stifling creativity i'm talking about becoming Mr Kebabies friend for a little while.

Making some strong and decisive steps forward.

We've got to try, stop playing at being a company and step onto the track.

I wonder if he'll have anything other than chicken!

Up town boy.

2008-02-13T00:24:00.000-08:00

Today i'll head up into London, a journey that I (on occasion) take and enjoy. It's nice when you have time off and are free to amble.

Of course theres the other side. Rush-hour, a feeling of being hurded amongst a bunch of people who never look up. Hahaha! Well we choose to live here.

Life is usually better when we have time. We all know this. So go ahead smile....What?....Try!

Today we hope to sort out exactly what our goals are for the near future. I'll keep you posted on that.

"I don't want to play!!"

2008-02-08T12:08:00.000-08:00

The words uttered by a class of young people scared stiff of looking stupid before the rest of their ideological group.

"What do you want to do then?"

"Nothing, we normally sit here and talk."

"What do you want to talk about?"

"Nothing! And stop asking me questions."

"Umm...ok! I'll continue with the rest of you who do want to have a laugh, and learn something."

"I want to learn something!"

"No, you just said you want to talk!"

"Na! I want to...."

"Go on...."

"Well just...laugh!"

"Listen give me a chance, give me twnty minutes of your time and if we get no where, we'll talk about why we haven't acheieved anything."

"Ok then."

"Great, right lets all pretend we are cats and mice. No, not like real ones! Tom and Jerry style! Ok!"

To be honest I didn't expect them to go for the T+J style of playing a game. But I was surprised.

It's shocked me today how close to the burden and harsh reality of life some children are.

One young lad began to openly shed water from his eyes as later we looked at a simple focuss line. Just the simple pressure of a room of class mates (whom openly throw thoughtless words of discouragement) looking at him doing nothing but taking part was to much for him. (He recovered and a massive part of my heart opened there and then.)

The staff at my new job are great. Very giving people. Trained teachers with an air of friendly authority. How can I possibly help?

I found the answer today after one young lad said to me "I don't want to play!!" As I observed the group, seemingly so wrapped up in the mighty 'cussing' war, It dawned on me that things are very different to when I was at school. We wanted to play all the time. Today if you can get through a lesson without ritual arguments you are doing well.

I guess i'm beginning to see more of what you need to be a teacher. I might be wrong but it almost appears that the giving that one affords for the youth of today, (our future) is wrapped in protection. Like a parent who protects a 10 year old from 18 certificated films.

Why do you have to fear standing in front of the group. Why do you have to 'cuss' and lash out as if it's the most natural thing in life.

There is fun to be had.

Well, I'm not going to bring out the bubble wrap. The gloves are off! What can I do to help?

Care!!

As the group relaxed and realised that i'm not as crazy as my 5"6 stocky frame suggests, they began to trust. Only once they could see I was not there to make them look stupid would they enter into the session.

I'll use this as a starting point. Names I must get to know their names!! Identity is going to be important!

It's been a good day!

Working in a right angle.

2008-02-03T13:59:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had those moments in life when everything is rolling along quite nice! You seem to know where everything is going and you are happy with your knowledge.

Bang! You do a John Wright workshop, and your brain crumples like a screwed up piece of paper, in the hand of Arnold Schwarzenegger. (Politician!?) Hehehe! "I'll be back!!!" "Kohagan give zees people aierrrrrrrr!!!"

Now i'm in a new world as my brain jumps, bounces and appears to be laughing from within it's own basket/pin ball machine.

Add to this the fact that i'm now on a night shift at an adult video making studio, yep a night watchman in porn palace, and maybe you can begin to see my silly, yet soon (and hopefully forever) embodied situation.

I thank you mr Wright, my two friends John and J and all the other Wright school graduates of 'Metaphor' and 'Play and the Pleasure Principle!'

I now have the terrible/delightful problem of dealing with my new, tainted with bright adolecent colours and unfolding brain.

Oh well looks like it might be a warm February! And an annoying one for those around me who don't know what game i'm playing.

My clown of Edinburgh 2002 has been recalled just in time. Isn't it funny how some times things happen all in sink. Wow! I'm now in my new job working with a year 7 class at Sedgehill school. I hope they are ready to roll.

You see!!! It's inprinted some new and amazing prospects already. I get to laugh all day with several different set of students. Playing games, awesome!

Life, isn't it ridiculous!

I noticed that there were less birds.

2008-02-01T13:19:00.000-08:00

January is over, another January under the belt. Many of my friends share a view that January as a month is the worst.

I'm not sure why?

We have been busy since October getting ready for a larger scale holocaust memorial performance, and although we weren't completely satisfied with the end result, on the grander scale of things it went very well. This took place in later January and although this took up all our attention, it's not the reason I think Jan should be hailed as miserable month. Nor miserable's opposite..erm pleasurable?

What do you intend to get out of the year? When are you going to take a break? Who are you going to meet? I've been asking myself these questions throughout January.

I'm not of the assumption that all of these questions fit into one evening, and cease at mid-night. "When then, we all set off into a new year, forcing ourselves into forward thinking, and running into the narrow minded streets, walls both sides." ZW

I like looking over walls. I'm not bloody spiderman. Although when i was a child i often thought different.

January has meant that i get a chance to think about the year whilst actively living in it and looking around. That in turn has given me a chance to remember stuff i'd forgotten from last year.

The beer mats with the word 'easy' written on them that gave me and two like minded friends a very pleasurable evening. In which we enlisted there help to show interested passers by how we were feeling.

The fact that when we emerged out of the channel tunnel I noticed having had not much sleep that there were less birds flying in the sky. I wondered if this was synonimus with the rest of France.

Alls i'm saying is don't put yourself under unneccasary pressure. Don't build the brick wall tunnel on new years eve. Have fun.

Now go on say it January! Now say it like shes a friend! xx

MC

Happy New Year

2008-01-02T17:04:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all, may it be filled with love, passion, apples and the occupational hazard that is tea and short bread.

Tell them all. Listen to the rest. And keep your eyes open!! (Except when sleeping!! - unless you have mastered sleeping with your eyes still open. I'm still trying that one! it's very hard and people tend to get a little uncomfortable around you at practice time.)

Still...

Do we at Yaller have a New Years resolution... well keep in touch you may find out!

Best of luck, keep them laughing!!

MC

Oh my eyes

2007-11-11T09:36:00.000-08:00

I've just found out that my friend Phil has worked the last three Sundays on the bounce. has the world gone mad!

Happy remembrance day.

2007-11-11T05:51:00.000-08:00

Yes I did stop still at eleven o'clock today. Had a little think and then wiped the tear from my unfortunate face. Life has changed innumerably.

Myself and a large eared man were teaching yesterday. I think it's one of the best days of work that I've had in recent years. It had nothing to do with my performance or charm. But everything to do with the wealth of seeing other people excel. "Can I really do this job." I still ask myself.
'They can' I thought to myself yesterday. Stop feeling like a fraud and help these people move forward.

There in lies a big difference.

I don't think I've ever wanted to be looked at. Shit it's only taken me thirty years to realise. Why did i get so much of a buzz walking into my old schools staff room the other day. We do I read John Simpson books and actively plan out my walk into Afghanistan. Why do I write these blogs?

It's not so that someone reads them.

On the face of the theatre world it would be easy to say and I've often heard the phrase "Struggling for work." But dudes I don't want to be famous. Yeah sure a little extra cash that would come from a spell in Eastenders would be useful. But could i handle people talking to me as if they knew me better than my mum and dad. Jesus if we are honest i bet there are things that even our parents don't know about us. The last thing i want is to be recognised. I've learnt that receiving recognition and being recognised are two completely different things. I feel like a child has it really taken me this long to understand.

Reading the news is a harrowing experience. Theatre that heels is where my interest lies. If that begins at KYT, and if that takes me a life time that's fine. Maybe someone else will carry it on.

"They don't make them like that any more." was said of my Granddad at his funeral. Well they should!!!

Then maybe we'll all stand a chance rather than blagging it!!!

Happy remembrance day. x

Laughter.

2007-11-08T14:02:00.000-08:00

"Laughter is the thing that clenches your stomach muscles and makes you wince like a leaf folding in two due to dehydration."

Right....not sure that it's a good thing then according to that statement. Lets try another.

"Laughing is what you do when someone falls over."

Yes...but I was looking for something a little more in depth than that.

"Your laugh comes from your guts, only when you find something truly funny."

Ummm...anyone else thinking quotes can often be crap.

Umm well. This feels good.

2007-11-07T08:47:00.000-08:00

This title does not refer to the feeling in my stomach when I am full and content. Nor does it refer to the loving feeling of watching squirrels run up and down trees. I refer to the insanity of a reward I get from my job when all is going well. Mind you I just had a rather nice cup of tea, that was also quiet satisfying.

Dates look set for Dubai 2008. Now the team needs to get together. I feel a greater sense of achievement with this beginning. This is possibly due to the search for a venue in setting up this particular production. Catford is great. Know I mean that seriously. The venue is great to perform in and our experiences in that venue hold us as actors exactly the same as it holds the audience. Baited breath.

We love the challenge of being real on stage.

But to think that a musical such as 'A Slice of Saturday Night' would do well there would be ridiculous. We have learnt early, and I hope learnt well. Energy is the new name of the game. Singing with Energy!

The Key Theatre Peterborough is to be the home of our next venture before it trips out to Dubai in the UAE.

2008 is looking like a venture and a half.

The cry from the wings comes "Your next line is......!!!" The audience waits with mesmerized eyes paused in time to await an outcome from a vulnerable cock up. My brain ticks over.."Time for something new I think." Smile!! I know what's coming.

MC

Where have I been?

2007-11-05T13:47:00.000-08:00

A friend from the north phoned me today and asked why the blog for Yaller Skunk had ceased. "It hasn't" I replied, "it's just been a while."

I actually do write (more often than not) for company reasons. If we stick to our five year plan, and Yaller is a company to be reckoned with in the future, all these blogs are a good way of keeping tabs on thoughts, feelings and well to be honest where the hell we've been.

Not this time.

No. Now i'm writing because I feel compelled to. I've been having so much fun.

I feel I should begin by explaining the last entry. Paris? It was written the night that England lost in their pool match against South Africa 36-0. Yes I was there. A crap game of rugby. We should have known it was going the wrong way when we discovered only alcohol free beer in the Stade de France! Still being English we kept optimistic.

I suppose we made up for it a week later when we discovered some sort of super lager in a bar near the Parc de Prance. Yep, 1 1/2 pints and I was gone. Si joined me on 2. And I believe Guy was with us both on his 3rd.

We left old iron guts Murugappa to fly the flag for a nation on boozers.

You see recently life has been about friends. Work has been good at the moment, so i've spent a great deal of time at weekends catching up with old (and i mean old) friends.

I'd just like to say thank you.

Lets keep it up, oh and keep in touch. The next set of memories are already waiting for permission to become live and unleashed. So cheers for the champagne. Raise a Peroni for the Journey.

And Guy! No I don't want that extra brandy.

Safe Journey you pair! xx

Then it all goes wrong!

2007-09-15T03:26:00.000-07:00

Then you step into a packed tube to hear nothing but abuse. You leave only to find you've had your pocket poached and the book you're really enjoying is gone.

You meet friends who seem down on the world, they misunderstand you and you argue the point that makes it worse.

Now you're drunk, tired annoyed drunk! You head for home and miss your bus. Some young lads decide you look lonely and try to teach you a lesson on smiling by throwing fists in your general direction. You miss another bus.

You climb into bed at Nine am, after the train you jumped on at Five has taken you in your drunken slumber all the way to Gillingham and back.

You can't sleep due to road works taking place right outside your third floor flat window.

Your phone rings and you are summoned into work on your day of due to two mistakes made during the week. You leave the flat after drinking black tea and brushing your teeth with sour milk. The lady across the street points and laughs.

What could be worse.

Paris?

He thought he had it all!

2007-09-09T01:34:00.000-07:00

You are full of the feeling you get when you've managed to get through the struggle of closing an over packed suitcase. Relief. You've earn t enough to pay for all you're plans. You've had a long day and an even longer week, now you're relaxing with friends. A great sense of accomplishment breathes from your pores.

She smiles at you from across the street. You help the lady next to you pick up her paper before the sheets fly away. Your phone moves and sends you a nice message. Someone is thinking about you.

You sleep with honest dreams, You wake with no sleepy dust! You take some coffee and bread. Everything is in line, unless it has been specifically placed out of line. You look in the mirror and it tells you that you're proud. A light smile engulfs your heart and the sun shimmering on familiar waves is the twinkle in the corner of your eyes. You have time!

The hairs on the back of your neck stand up just as the pictures of family and friends stroll through your thoughts. You feel warm as the cool breeze gently passes your skin like a silk garment.

It's alright being you, I wonder who you could pass it all onto this week!

Zenith Williams

Picking the best fifteen!

2007-09-05T22:25:00.000-07:00

As the planning and preparation for 2008 hits home and begins to pick up momentum, I find myself in a familiar yet totally unfamiliar hat.

And I'm not talking about my fez.

The Rugby world cup is with us again. Yep it's time to cross the water for some French toast, maybe a coffee and a croissant and then the perfect wash down with a beer or two. All this of course before 'Swinging Low."

Brian Ashton has an enormous task. Me, as a complete patriot, and Rugby fan remain optimistic.

His task is all about picking (as Sir Clive did in 2003,) the right team to take to the field in each game. Brian (his job made harder with new players coming in) is under pressure as the raining World Champions endeavor to retain that honor.

So, I was thinking about Dubai 08. The proposal is for us to produce the Heather Brothers musical 'Slice of Saturday Night'. Interestingly enough, well i say interesting. (I find it interesting, if you don't you might want to stop reading this now. Why don't you go and tense all your arm muscles by pushing you're arm into the wall for thirty seconds. Then step away and watch as your arm as it performs it own impression of a hail Hitler. Spooky!) hh..hmmmm sorry about that. I'm getting exited and my English blood boils.

Anyway

So, interestingly enough we would be looking at about fifteen in the touring party.

It's quiet a number to manage. When people are in for the experience you rely on good will. If you don't have that things could get sticky.

So do you go for your best players. What if they don't all get on? Do you go for a diplomatic mix?
I'm sure I'll work this out. I've always been a believer in 'the best people should get the call.' Ahh but who are the best people?

Are they the best actors, singer or dancers? Are they good all rounders? Or are the good company members and great to travel with?

Yep Brian mate best of luck. I made not have an entire nation on my back, but I think i understand your world a bit better these days.

Swing low people, swing low!!!

I'm full of it!!

2007-09-04T03:15:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I read these back and wonder what the hell was I talking about. Still nothing new there then. At least i'm doing everything with a smile. With my unfortunate face I kind of have to.

Feeling good about everything at the moment. Yep I am ready to be Thirty. Life is grand and often dramatic. Sometimes a little cold..(pause for thought) shut up Mark you absolute jockey.

Have a great day!!!

2007-09-03T17:57:00.000-07:00

I've spent the whole day doing administrative work for these future plans for 2008. Already i can tell that a larger cast means a lot more work. My favorite writing emails.

I can feel myself going crazy as I write them. My eyes getting dizzy as I glance at my fingers first, then the letters that will form my..words. yep you all know that...mean a pause for thought.

Well actions and all that so I'd best get on.

Honesty? Well if everyone that used a computer was honest, most messages would probably read,

I went to the shop today and erm....must think of something funny to say.. ermm Ohh I saw a cat run into a wall..and it ermm. !!! S??t thats not funny. I ermmm. .how are you doig. (followed by a brief look at the screan) bolloks. Delete, delete delete. how are you doing? That'll do.

Such is life.

It rained but I didn't notice.

2007-09-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

I'm fast being called oblivious Curtis by a man in clothes I don't recognise. "Dude I wallow in this stuff, I'm mad for it" He smiles and I feel fine.

I've just had possibly one of the best summers on record.

I can't compare it to the summers where we were all involved in the Youth Theatre. Those were of course amongst some of the best memories, stored away never to be lost.

Nor can I compare it to long summers abroad in the sun shine. Turning up to the wrong wedding in South Africa and getting half way through the main course before I noticed. Ohh they laughed!!! "Get him!!!" S~*T!!!!! Perhaps I shouldn't have commented on the brides foot wear.

Nor can I compare it to the first professional job. Returning to teach a Youth Theatre that I grew up in. Exhilarating. "Thanks Paul."

This one stands alone. Why was it so good?

Strap yourselves in. Here we go.

Since the beginning Yaller Skunk had to concentrate on certain 'boring' aspects of running a company to based on reputation. I suppose we had to learn to concentrate on one thing at a time. Once you send an email you need to be ready for the reply. That sort of thing. In short we were trying to secure contracts.

Due to our early success with 'Someone Who'll Watch Over Me' (Possible Trafalgar Studio transfer.) and Neville's Island (Middle East tour) we were able to get back to what we love. But this could only happen once we were happy we could cope with what was on our paper plates. We've never professed to be the leaders in our fringe world. Jesus until nine months ago we didn't even have a computer. And I didn't have an email address. But what I'm proud about is that we've done it. And we have done it in our own 'no nonsense' way.

There is a natural build from this you can see clearly on paper. We should aim to produce a couple or more shows at the Catford Broadway (Home!!) And we should be aiming to take another show abroad. For a slightly longer tour. Great. Yep both of these are happening all be it the negotiation phases. We've obviously done something right.

Since then this summer I've been involved in five jobs that all involve a different kind of creation.

A devised show based on transition was put together to help the merger of two rival schools. Working for the Key Theatre myself and Mark Smedly, (Colleague and friend) worked with two groups of young people aiming to bring them together under a new roof. What a challenge. What a laugh!!

As a company we devised a piece for the Ipswich Pulse Festival based in the world of binge drink a subject close to me red wine coloured heart.

Two summer school projects home and abroad. The Wizard of Oz (Dubai) and The Jungle Book (Key Theatre)

And a devised show based on the title "Is that Funny" for the Oxford Playhouse.

Such was the diversity of these five jobs, I've hit the ground hard. Thank god I landed on my feet and ran like road runner. Beep, beep!!!

The summer was so great because it made me re-evaluate my job. And in turn my job has made me use skills that I'd forgotten I had. Basically I feel proud of my achievements. Devising can be very daunting especially when you've got a group of young people waiting for your guidance. What if they don't go for it? What if they hate me and the subject?

"Well then you have to work even harder to get their trust!!! Don't give up and good things will happen!!" I have kept telling myself over the years, my hands shaking. Blasted white Russian.

But it's true.

Every job over the summer offered me something new. I also met an extraordinary amount of nice people, some I already knew and others it was the first the first time we had met. I hope I meet all of them again in any capacity. There were so many surprises. And so many inspiring performances "Thank you!"

You can't do this stuff on your own. And this is why I consider myself one of the luckiest men alive. Each job brings with it a different group of people to work with. Each challenge is to be shared with someone. This summer once those doors were thrown open, I was able to see a group of people who each stand out surrounded (like in a cartoon) with their own personal outline.

Smeds, with his endless reassurance. Jason for his guidance even when he was ill. The entire group abroad who keep each other going with endless laughter whilst leaving enough room for alone time. Katy "Ding dong the witch IS dead."

P'boro and what a bubble. Tim, Nalton, Coops and Sam. What can't I say about you four. I've made three new close friends. And me and Tim are like brothers. I'm going to watch all four of those careers with special interest. The whole Summer School party I'm really missing. I'm sure they can tell by the random texts I keep sending out to all. Good luck you lot.

Paul and Lisa the dogs and everything that goes with em..like Woody and Loz you guys are family! Forever!

Oxford was the land of new adventure in terms of friendships. Cheers Sarah and Rupert for the one liners and freedom to get on with it.

Throw into this a few relaxing nights in the pub, some very nice meals and some crazy thirst driven weekends, and bang there is your great summer. No......not quite. I've seen two shows this summer just as a spectator that deserve a special mention. Our Day Out and Into the Woods. Without getting emotional. Thank you!!! You know who you are. And i strugglr to sit through theatre.

With the latter half of the year looking special (three jobs back to back on the boards with friends including the bank manager) this year could pass as one of my best. F~#K I think I've grown up.

What do you think to that Mum and Dad? (who I know will be amongst the first to read this!)

Oh well back to night shift at the Porn Studio. Sleep well. Back to earning some cash. Oh yeah as long as I earn else where the rest I'd do for free.

MC YS

Second Half

2007-07-04T11:08:00.000-07:00

It seems that the second half of the year is going to be all about setting up next year.
That's not a bad thing. Money is few and far, the bread line looms. Stupid career.

Having said that it leaves little or no excuse to nail 2008.

With jobs now till the new year, it seems 2008 is going to exciting.

Remember!!!

2007-06-27T01:13:00.000-07:00

Umm...an early morning blog. Not sure about this one it feels wrong, like i've got to much time on my hands.

Still "use this power for good" the voice in my right ear hole keeps whispering. That's considerate. I couldn't handle it shouting at me right now.

So lots to do today. I've got to adapt The Jungle Book for the Key Theatre summer school, whilst i'm there i should have a think about staging it. I've also got to stage The Wizard of Oz. That's for Dubai summer school in a week and a half.

Then on Dubai, I'd like to sort through some play ideas. If I can go out there armed with several outlines for a rep season I'll be happy.

I need to have a serious look at A Christmas Carol. Martin hasn't said no, but I need to re adapt to create our version.

I need to organise our first workshop at Sedgehill school, that's if I can get through to my contact there.

I should speak to my agent, I suppose. (He's a good guy really.)

So i'm gonna get on and let you know what's done and what isn't later on. So have a great day.
Smile at least your not in Big Brother.

MC

This is a convince job.

2007-06-26T01:26:00.000-07:00

Ok, the boss has begun the wheel turning to sit Carol out. I understand his reasons, i don't agree but there you go. We all get our ideas shafted at some point. Interesting that the day he put forward his concerns, I get offered three jobs at once.

Now it's all about knowing what we are talking about, and presenting the right suggestions. He hasn't said no. Yet!!!!

Sarah Tipple is very interested.

With her on board this could be a winner. The time to be planning is now.

MC

Devising

2007-06-19T09:06:00.000-07:00

Well i'm devising again. This time with some year eight and year nines. They have never met. There was a stand of on the first day. Transition and the right to be somewhere is the topic. They are nice guys and I think all will go well.

They have just started me thinking of Carol. A Christmas Carol and what do we as a company want to get out of it. Still at base is reputation, but our ideas that we believe in have to feature in a major way for an adaptation. What can we bring that is new to a classical text.

Answers on a post card please!!!

MC

Proposal had gone in.

2007-06-14T03:01:00.000-07:00

Picture from left-right: KevinWatt, Mr Brad-Leigh and Bristol Old Vic himself Hillda!

We've sent in a proposal to Martin at the Theatre. We seem to have all of a sudden gone very formal. Don't get me wrong I think that's a good thing. If we want the company to move forward we're going to have to learn many different ways of communication.

I'm thinking of taking a short break out to visit London Zoo, there I intend to observe the monkeys and learn about body language. Thing is, they are behind bars so will they behave differently? It would be interesting to see if a monkey in a zoo behaves in any way similar to an inmate at a prison.

Still I'll keep you posted on that one.

I'm also trying to get this week of workshops up and running, I think it will stand us in sterner stuff than we already wade in. And it will be great for the theatre with 'Journeys End' coming up.

With regards to the proposal I suppose all we can do now is wait. Kevin did have the thought that 'A Christmas Carol' might take box office away from the main house panto. My opinion is wouldn't it be great to fill both spaces.

Moving on.

2007-06-12T10:12:00.002-07:00

Right well, I've had a semi day off. So today I've been thinking a lot about the next six months. There is a lot happening. Some stuff in the pipe line. Some that are just ideas at present.

The biggy is our own adaptation of Christmas Carol. I'm not sure that our boss at the Broadway wants us to do it.

That's just a feeling I get.

I think the problem is 'Someone Who'll Watch Over Me' sent us down the road of 'good at gritty drama'.

Neville was a completely different challenge. Props, the set, playing a married man with kids (that was just me.)

Now the run was a struggle, and due to the lack of an audience our confidence probably did begin to dwindle. That can leave a taste in the mouth. For anyone working in the building. But because we're not buzzing and literally running down the stairs screaming "let me on the boards I'm going to rip this play up tonight, they will not know what hit them." Doesn't mean that we've lost interest. It doesn't mean we're not suitable for anything other than dark.

What it means is that we were learning. Playing a comedy like Neville's Island to an audience of six is a massive learning curve.

Do you rein it in and get the audience to believe in these characters 100% with a natural performance, thus making them laugh at the situation and the way the characters deal with it.

Or do you, send it up slightly. Thus making the audience laugh at the characters, and making them relish in the situations they get into.

The answer is, you can do either. Sending it up worked for us in Dubai. Cheap bastards I hear you cry.

Sod off! They loved it and they wanted more. We did our jobs. And I'm convinced that we found those performances through four weeks of hard graft and invention at The Catford Broadway.

(Well plus we had a director with vision, and a set fit for town. Not to mention our mate George.)

Anyway.

On the marketing front we are learning as we go. We have to, we started this as jobbing actors. So we can only get better at it. Our ideas a worth trying. Nothing is a wasted effort.

Catford audience didn't want to see Neville's Island, that was true. And to get people into that building it's going to take the right play. I agree.

Maybe the studio will not respond to seasonal programming either. (Having said that our boss did say he saw the worst version of Christmas Carol down there and it did a great box office.)

We just want to try.

We never wanted to label ourselves.

We've just come back from the Pulse Festival in Ipswich with our first devised piece. We wanted to take risks to see if they would work. Some did and some didn't. Now I think we've got a great platform to script and write a play. Based on what we found out.

Granted the Catford Studio isn't a place to take risks. Not when your out looking for reputation.

We just want to see if we can bring something new to a trusted classic, and get a closer handle on the audience. Hard work were expecting.

But we're up for it. I think the last six months have proven that.

MC

I need a swim.

2007-06-12T10:12:00.001-07:00

Cranberry went.

2007-06-11T14:45:00.000-07:00

Cranberry juice played to a near full house last night. And we won.

I think it has an after life and will return but in what form and who will be in it?

Cheers Phil, a great performance, impro is hard and nerv racking. But I think the structure was sound and helped us with our funny and entertaining clowns.

A day off. Na!!! Christmas Carol maybe!! Time to move onto something new. learning as we go is great even if I am skint, tired and look like ****!!!

MC

Smell the summer!

2007-06-10T03:37:00.000-07:00

I got it in the neck a bit, I've not writen anything for a while. I suppose it looks like we've ditched everything mid production. Well that's not the case. We've been working so hard that the last thing on my mind Is writing techno bable when I get in. Still it doesn't take long to write a couple of words does it.

It's been a tough three months, it's all been documented. So expect more info to follow.

We nailed Neville in the end. Dubai was a great success. We made lots of friends and hope they are all well.

Cranberry Juice has now played to an audience and we think there is work to be done on it for a small scale tour. Bits worked very well other bits didn't. But i'm proud we took lots of risks, and added to our already ballsy reputation. Mind you writing a play about binge drinking has now meant that i don't care if i never see another alcoholic drink as long as i live.

During Neville's month in London it got offered a transfer to Upstairs at the Gatehouse in North London, so we are obviously doing something right. We couldn't move it in the end as dates didn't fit. Still it's a contact made.

We've also been approached by a producer in The West End to get our vertion of 'Someone Who'll Watch Over Me' into the Jermyn Street Theatre. That could be good.

We've successfully broken in a regular Stage manager. Thank you for all your hard work Andrew.

Now boy's Peter and Darren, what can i say about you! I think the proudest thing myself and Kev have taken from this is that we have an eye for casting. You were ace in your jobs and not bad company either.

Fondest memory. Darren Hill 3am skidding into the lounge in his pants and tshirt. Showing us his belly before returning to his room for bed time. I think it was his way of saying good night.

Thank you guys for helping us get there in the end. I know it was tough but i've learned a lot from you. So cheers.

What's next, maybe Scrooge, or an adaptation of it. We need a box office hit.

That's it for now. Thank you if you have supported anything we've done from the beginning to now. See you on there.

How!! Do we highjack people.

2007-04-13T08:38:00.001-07:00

Every rehearsal has been productive. All the people involved are getting on top of this production. Now all we need is an audience. This, I am at a bit of a loss with.

Good reviews will help, word of mouth and good media coverage.

I need people to help us out, to give up that one night down the local (or if your like me) choose Catford rather than being stuck in limbo somewhere in central caught between the decision of which train to get home. Just two stops out of London Bridge. Not far, not expensive and not a waste of time.

If you like theatre/television/film you'll like this venue, this production and these people. If you think Neville's island doesn't appeal, you'll never know. We might beable to surprise you.

Theatre is a haven for inspiration. This is for anyone who enjoys feeling entertained. Least of all you can at least appreciate the omount of work that people have put in to this.

I have to wear this hat. The 'marketing' cap. Which, being a Bill Hicks fan is a horrible thing to have to admit. I don't want money, just support.

Hope that helps save my soul Bill!!!

All coming together for a fried sausage.

2007-04-10T13:22:00.000-07:00

I'm never sure which hat i'm wearing. My head is spinning.

A great rehearsal today, picking on the tiny looks, eye roles and inflections mid-line, to create a truthful/natural experience for our audience.

They are so close they can smell your breath, it requires a certain style which i believe is coming. Trust and belief is growing.

We can do this, we can prove that 'Someone Who'll Watch Over Me' was no fluke.

I know we're tired lads, but keep going. Keep that look in your eyes that only each of us will see.

We can bloody nail this.

Not an entry.

2007-04-08T13:31:00.000-07:00

It was a very hard second week. Not in the sense that rehearsals were hard and slow progress, it was just the life of the poor actor showing it's ugly head. It was all very tiring. That's why no entries. long days and even longer nights working the wage.

Mind you at least I'm not Darren Hill or Hilda as we now affectionately call him. That boy finishes rehearsal and then goes to work in a casino until 6am. That's incredible!!!

Still we are about to go into week three, an I've got every reason to believe that this is going to be a very successful show. Well it will be if we sell some tickets.

If your reading this, please get booking.

The guys are beginning to work very well together.

Looking forward to a big production week.

More than this!

2007-03-31T11:08:00.002-07:00

I was in Ipswich last night beginning the chat to support our first devised show of the year. 'Cranberry Juice'

Booze makes us all a little scared I think. The fear rises as we all then head for our comfort zone. I try to live outside of mine, but sometimes it's hard. And when you get nervous strange this happen in our heads.

Talking to people becomes hard. You know whats in your head, and you properly know that it's good. You just can't get it out.

Some times all it takes is a look to communicate. To many words and you can get lost.

Learning Neville lines today I want to be off book for Monday. Prop hunting as well.

It was a great first week.

Cheers for everything lads.

Natural Insomnia

2007-03-29T15:13:00.000-07:00

Not sleeping, feeling detached and quick/slow random thoughts, all part and parcel of rehearsals for me.

This does feel different though. And although very uncomfortable I'm glad.

It is different because the character thoughts that are a part of an 'Adam Canning' (Someone Who'll Watch Over Me) 'Ray' (Lone Star) are not the same with Nev. Neville seems to struggle to make any other decision apart from the first one. 'Carry on regardless'

You see Adam found out a truth for him and he made a decision on that truth even if that was under extreme duress. That enables release, which in Adams case resonates in his screams and shouts as he trys to pull his chain from the concrete to kill Michael, or break his own ankle. (That's just the way I played it. Well, who wouldn't want to kill Rob Maskell)

We found that Nev is all about what he doesn't do. He doesn't tell Gorden to leave Roy. He doesn't tell Angus that love exists whether you say it or not. It all just sits in his head.

This would suggest that i'm looking to play him with danger behind the eyes. I'm not.

I still don't know how to play him. But today was a golden day.

Of course I can only speak for myself, but just from watching the other guys and taking there offers. We could win this one.

Inspired, tired, nervous and feeling grand.

Friday will hold alot. Discovery time moving towards decision making time. It just gets better and better.

Lyt (Lewisham Youth Theatre) have also added to my passion today. Thankyou.

Is there anything I would change....yeah. My sleeping pattern! But i'm happy to live with it.

It will never end

2007-03-28T18:07:00.000-07:00

Got up and moved the thoughts around. My head hurts.

There is so much more to people! I almost wish i was a fly watching this all go on. I don't know what i'd make of it. People are interesting. Every single one of them.

'Take care' in an every day throw away complement all of a sudden seems so much more important.

Foot print!

I think I right that for a reason. I'm just unsure why.

One thing I do know is I've got support. Kev, Pete, Darren and the daddy Mac. Plus everyone around me who keeps me me.

Looking forward to tomorrow.x

Ripping up the text!

2007-03-28T00:07:00.000-07:00

Yeah, out of the frying pan and into the fire. That is a typical day two of rehearsal. Actors always feel the need to be up and moving . I'm terrible for it.

"In my experience we should look at character now, or later on we'll just run out of time." Rhys tells the company.

So we begin looking into the text looking for clues. These guys (Characters) have a background, a home life, and family and friends. We've just got to find them.

Rehearsing in this way means a couple of things. One is that we put of blocking. The reason being that the blocking (Moves) will happen in quite natural manner once you've decided on character relationships. The seconds is that as a company we begin to realise through our discovery, that Nevilles Island is deeply complex. Especially a studio production. It requires a realness as the audience is practically on the Island with you.

This is scary. As actors you begin to doubt yourself, looking at the time frame and thinking "Ahh we'll never make it". It's out of the comfort zone and settling for anything other than truth. Our truth, our decisions as a company.

Better that than a whole load of pointless moves in day one and two. Just to make ourselves feel comfortable, and that we're getting ahead!!!

Heart beating ten to the dozen. I just hope I can sleep.

First day

2007-03-26T17:37:00.000-07:00

All good, the lines are in and i'm ready to go.

Just joking!#

It was a good first day. Read through as you would expect, then just some messing around on the text and the next few days. I trust!!

It feels great to be in from the beginning. We've got loads to do and what feels like months to get us there.

But you know, this is going to be different.

We're gonna laugh our arse's off all the way. I'm going to make sure of that.

I wish them indians could see this now.

We're all friends together!

2007-03-23T11:07:00.000-07:00

All set, Monday 12pm. Neville lives! Well he will do in three weeks. Big thanks already to some other places, people do seem willing to support us. That always comes as a surprise to me.

We do the same, but again that thing of image rears it's ugly head. Who are we really!

Well Neville is going to bring us that step closer to finding out. Until then hard graft and laughing a lot will prevail. (Well, it will knacker us as well!)

Mind the hoarse road.

It does all come at once!!

2007-03-22T11:07:00.000-07:00

I've got alot to say today, which is no surprise seeing as I'm meant to be line learning. Firstly I've just had a great lesson with some degree students. I was asked to teach a little about how to come up with a company, run it and keep sanity.

Well I'm sure these guys at PRC now realise sanity is the hardest part.

They were nice students though, and nice people.

Which brings me to my next surprise of the day. Darren only turned down the commercial. Again how good is that! That information brings out the best in others. I've been in rehearsal all day, and I've felt brilliant.

I know me and Kev work hard, we have a trust, and the understanding between us to say if we're behind.

But when people make sacrifice, and give you an offer, it makes you run even harder. The next four five weeks are not going to be easy. Getting those five solid reviews isn't going to be easy. But I'll tell you what, giving 150% and leading from the front and by example is going to be easy.

Darren, cheers for putting the bit between our teeth. We're on and I'm mad for it.

Proud to be!!!

Thank You Richmond.

2007-03-21T16:52:00.000-07:00

I think we've made a new friend In Bill from Richmond Productions. We've got our set, we've got a stack load of advice. The sun was out, the coffee was good. He's got a beautiful house, and a working reputation that certainly rubbed of on us for the brief hour that we met him.

Cheers Bill, we'll be in touch.

Commercial...commercial!!!

2007-03-21T16:44:00.000-07:00

Well the first of many i'm sure, Darren Hill has got a Commercial. He's going to miss the first few days of rehearsal. These things happen though, you just have to get on. Lead from the front. Hope they follow. Does wonders for your nervs this job.

Minor set back.

2007-03-14T17:01:00.000-07:00

Ok such is life, all going great then I go and slash my finger open at work. Work being my money job, bar keep in South Ken.

Not bad Mark, well done!!

Got loads of stuff to carry tomorrow, Kev..erm..I think i'm going to need your help.

Still it's made me realise my determination again. I can't do ill or injured. You get to far behind and then life becomes stressful.

That's not what were about.

I was thinking about first day of rehearsals when it happened, boom, four hours in casualty! What do doctors and nurses talk about? Why one waiting room then another?

Better give my finger a rest now. Now that's dedication.

Erm...Sunshine.

2007-03-12T03:28:00.000-07:00

As I am English I enjoy overcast weather. I accept that! So when in early March the SUN comes blazing into my life again, I am confused for a moment. Then I believe I fall into the category of 'Typical English Man'. Or, 'Handkerchief Head', which ever way you look at it.

The thing is I was happy yesterday anyway, things are going nice and smoothly, and at a steady pace. As a company were at the right level of stress for this part of the process. Meetings this week to look people in the eyes, and check were all fighting for the same thing. 'Reputation!!!!'

Of course the fact that the sunshine came out, I had my first BBQ of the year and we beat the French was all a bonus.

I love my life.

Hope your all smiling.

Things fall into place. (Sometimes!!)

2007-03-09T07:33:00.000-08:00

A day of emails, gathering of information and tea. And I've quite enjoyed it.

Dates for rehearsals of Cranberry Juice are in place. All passport info has gone to Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

We're cracking on with the set and prop finding for Neville's Island.

Now all I've got to do is learn my lines. All I can hear in my head is an old friend Simon Bamfords voice saying 'It's so hard to learn'. He's played Nev before you see. Now you would think that would make me very mindful of starting now so as to not run out of time. No!! It's a regular trait of the actor to brush things under the carpet and depending on some mystical creative streak to save him/her.

Still it usually does, but for a young company basing itself on reputation we can't afford the blag. Oh well I'll stay in tonight then. I hope you lot are doing the same.

Spoke to Bill from Richmond Productions he's a gent and very helpful. We are meeting him next Thursday to listen to his stories from abroad. We're looking forward to it. He's the chap who is lending us the Neville set for abroad.

We are going to Ipswich for a big weekend to promote the Pulse Festival. Clown suits, flyers and a NEW IDEA!!! All I can say about that is, people of the Switch, Yaller is coming.

So have a great weekend everyone. Take it easy. If I've emailed you today, emailing me back would be ace. Acting/Reaction. You know what I mean.

It's all built on trust.

2007-03-08T02:05:00.000-08:00

I've just had the best meeting ever in this environment.

Some times this job is very volatile. You are forced to deal with big opinions, egos and sometimes even direct criticism. An idea can be rubbished in an matter of seconds. So some times it's hard to keep things sane.

Cranberry Juice was an idea created between two friends with a similar training background. It was put under the company heading as to build company profile. But, it didn't involve everyone in the company.

Kev I thank you. For your trust and once again, for letting me know that we are on the same page. I owe you a Guinness.

Meeting next week for all the cast of Neville. We are nearly there. We'll be busy but satisfied.

I've over done it again!!!

2007-03-04T15:59:00.000-08:00

I've just had the best weekend. I'm tearful as i write this because I could spend another month with these people. I miss every single one for all the right or wrong reasons. You guys make me tick.

Can't wait till we have a Yaller weekend. Me, Kev the G, we'll show you the truth. Keep smileing. Well, my heart always will. Even if it can't see.xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

We've found him.

2007-03-02T05:29:00.000-08:00

Darren Hill has answered our call. A fine young actor, and enthusiastic man is playing Angus.

All the other audition peeps have been notified. No tears, infact all was possitive. People seem to realise our genuine aim.

So full speed ahead.

I also recieved an email from abroad confirming dates for Dubai and Abu Dhabi, best get my passport sorted.

Also a meeting with Ralitsa Nenkova this morning to feed back on our devised piece from January. The Holocaust
She is very happy to have worked with us and is going to try and organise a trip for the guys out of school time table to come and see Neville. She also wants January to be a regular event, plus she asked me to do some more workshops with them.

The sun is out and I'm smileing as I head to the lakes for the weekend. Have fun.

Audition Day

2007-02-27T07:26:00.000-08:00

It went really well today. I'm pleased to have met the guys who came in for us.

It was also very interesting. What makes a good audition?

All of the guys offered us good speeches and evident talent. But, for me it was all about the company chat. What we need as we build this company from scratch is a level of commitment that supports our three week rehearsal period, and the four week run at our home The Broadway, Catford.

I think we've found our guy.

I've also sent one email to Forest Hill School. I hope we can begin that part of things. I'm missing workshops and am eager to get on with relationship building. Clowning workshops are also a right laugh.

We'll see. Fingers crossed.

Oh my life.

2007-02-25T04:30:00.000-08:00

A great weekend, very relaxing. Shame England couldn't manage a win, the mighty Tigers aswell. Still all is good in other areas.

Holding auditions on Tuesday, and looking forward to them.

The day I caught the train.

2007-02-23T05:39:00.000-08:00

Oh god, we are holding auditions on Tuesday 27th Feb for the role of Angus. I hate going to auditions. I wonder will I get some sort of perverse pleasure sitting on a panel. I'm going to have to push myself to play true and safe.

Poor guys. Coming to an audition is bad enough. But get there, with all the nervs that go with it, only to find me and Kev at the end of it. Still i'm looking forward to it.

It's going to be a work shop style. Important that we all get on!

Got the emails of a good handful of schools today. Just got to decide what i want to say.

Life is good. Well, if we beat the Irish tomorrow, life will be sweet. We are definately chugging on.

Looking To The Future Through Thick Glasses

2007-02-20T04:52:00.000-08:00

I can't see, I seem to be walking two feet forward then seven backwards.

As long as you've got someone to catch you if you fall that's alright isn't it. I think the trick is accepting a walk before you even think about running.

I was working on our education files today and have decided that if i can strike up a solid relationship with two schools then that will be better than contacting ten and spreading things thin.

I'm not interested in working on things for just bums on seats, thing is, you try and convince people of this.

If i'd been interested in money, I wouldn't have become an actor/workshop leader/practioner.
It's sad that it all comes back through these channels.

I miss the guys from Stanground School, devising with people who love looking.

Well i'll have to keep looking. There will be a School out there somewhere, with a teacher, who can see our worth.

Mr Bloody Saturday Night

2007-02-18T02:52:00.000-08:00

Yeah, it's Sunday. I've lived a whole other week.!! Yes, sometimes I am sarcastic. And, yes sometimes i feel like talking about it. Saturday night should be an occasion for fun and laughter, same as any other night of the week. Should I choose to put myself in harms way, waste my time or quite simply go home, I will, with a smile on my face.

I'm not an aggressive man, but I'll tell you what, the next idiot who leaves me standing in a crowded pub for near two hours, then has the stupidity to say to me, "I couldn't find the cab". Well I'm personally going to enjoy buying a round and watching them vomit, as they realise they are drinking WD40 taken from a dodgy cab from Old Street the night before.

You see people take advantage of others. How do I know this, well I've done it. We all have. But don't turn around and dig using an invisible shovel .

Big week coming up. Lots to be done. Best just get on i suppose.

Salvaged (It all started with a phone call.)

2007-02-16T10:39:00.000-08:00

What a day. We've been very busy.

Not long was I out of my pit, when my phone rang. Number, 'Withheld'. "Do I answer it...."

Well, I did. "Mark, it's Chris Kettle here, your bank account is up and running." Ace (I thought,) now all we've got to do is to fill it.

Been in touch with Richmond Productions today, we can pick up the Neville stuff early March. That's the set to travel abroad, and the props.

Meeting with Michael Cross with regards to 'Someone Who'll Watch Over Me' 2007. Ace. He's real interested in having us open their studio in Peterborough. Sketchy on dates but it's nice to know that our first production is still lurking about.

Writing, scheduling and getting life in order. Wow, I just found an Aspall cider i put in the fridge over a month ago for just such an occasion. Chhh..gulp,gulp ahhhhhh!!!!!

Feeling Like A School Boy

2007-02-15T15:15:00.000-08:00

I remember when I used to get in from school sometimes and just feel tired. Well,...that's me at the moment just tired.

And yet with such a great start to the year (January being very rose) i don't feel like I've accomplished much in Feb.

Mark. You knob. It's not over yet, salvage it.

OK then I will...I'm of now to learn some contemporary dance. (<, other way up.)

The Day I Caught The Train

2007-02-09T03:51:00.000-08:00

All on board, last call for London kings Cross.

I'm going into one of my arty phases, buger!! I'm not at all arty it just happens to me sometimes. I get all heady and drift into different worlds. It's writing that does that to you. Constantly thinking until your brain drifts slowly from it's thick shell and seems to be dancing around before your very eyes

At this point I'm wondering if cheese should become known as the legal psychedelic stimulant of the underworld. A bought of Stilton gives me serious dreams and therefore cause for concern of a growing addiction. Also I think I'm having a relationship with a beautiful lady in my dreams. I wonder do the two go together, or am i just thinking to much.

Oh well, hope you are all well. This guy Steve can't do the character Angus in Neville's Island so we've begun looking else where.

Best go or I'll miss my train/spaceship...er I'll leave it there. (Mark leaves the room looking confused.)

The Bank Man Chris Kettle

2007-02-08T12:34:00.000-08:00

We have a bank account now. Well when Kevin gets the right documentation. Dick Head.

Yeah, we get a cheque book and pen...hope we don't start shooting blanks.

There is alot of work to do.

Neville stuff is coming together, Cranberry Juice is writing itself.

England won at Rugby, life is sweet.

The Bank Man Chris Kettle

2007-02-08T08:07:00.000-08:00

Yeah oh yeah we are official. Well apart from Kevin not having the right documents. Dick head.

We'll get a check book and pen, and a bank card. Just hope we don't fire any blanks.

Me nerves are kicking in i've just relised the enormity of what we are doing. If we are in anyway slack we are sunk so a definate dry, healthy period is on it's way.

It feels good. My agent sent me a breakdown of things i've been up for, the one at the Old Vic looked good. Nice to know someone is looking out for you.

Peter Brad-Leigh is in for Neville 100% We are going to meet Steve this week so all looks good.

Andrew, (web guy/technician) Rhys (Our director) are confirmed for Dubai, and we are playing the John Mills Theatre in June with our first devised piece.

We are making friends left right and centre.

And we are reading a play called Highlife. Possibly to produce it later this year. It's very Tarentino esc. Perfect!

All is good then...i can even make a Snow Man today. Life in the fast lane driving at a lick. Keep jogging on everyone.

Come and have ago if you think your hard enough

2007-01-31T07:28:00.000-08:00

Urban splash days, new writting readings. Hard impro thats what is bugging me today.

Look anywhere and theatre companies all over are doing these kind of projects and making money out of them too!!

Thus obtaining some sort of lable.

If you work in a school working on a production (Your a TIE) company.

It gets us back to that thing off wanting to do everything.

I think we should get into street performance. I could just see Kev in a lycra top shouting out at passers by in Covent Garden.

Thing is I just don't want to follow what other theatre companies are upto, that would make us dull.

For me, ideas and insiration come during moments of clarity.

Ohh well a dry spell coming up then..

The beautiful Helen

2007-01-30T06:23:00.000-08:00

The Neville shots are done and they look great.

Helen and same took us out in costume on location in Catford.

We fitted right in with the Catford crazy people.

Helen took loads of shots, she is ace. And big sam came with us aswell. I don't know what we'd do without those to.

Martin is drawing up a contract, bank account opens on Monday, and Billy is interested in playing Angus!

Bugger...I just burned my finger.

Lets get it on!!

2007-01-29T06:05:00.000-08:00

Pulicity photos tomorrow for Neville's Island. Soon to go on sail.

We'll be out in costume to get these shots. I'm looking forward to it.

A video has been made of the Holocaust piece, so we can expect that on the site soon.

Billy Clark is having a read of Neville for us, but if he should turn us down Pete has made/brought a suggestion to the table.

So it's all coming together....

Cranberry Juice is also looking good, John Mills Theatre June 9th/10th.

I have a slight headache is the only thing. But i'll live.

Great Stuff

2007-01-27T04:58:00.000-08:00

Our first devised piece of the year went very well. The holocaust is not an easy subject to tackle when trying to deal with a year full of comedy.

Still, the last image of our piece 'The seven stages of prejudice' was hair standing up stuff.

There was the theme from Platoon playing in the back round as the company walk (one by one) onto the stage. They walk on in character, and as they walk the character traits fall and they drop to the floor. Mean while the hosts are squeezing the life out of a globe in the background.

I had a tear as the enormity of the holocaust hit home.

Well done guys, you've given me confidence, you entertained me and moved me.....I also had a beverage. Perfect.

Ps. If only those Indians could have seen it.

Great we're on our way.

2007-01-23T13:25:00.000-08:00

We had a great first meeting on Monday.

Me and Kev first off. Then Martin (Theatre Manager) Rhys (Our associate director) Robert (One of Yallers Performers) and of course Mr Peter Brad-Leigh (Another of Yallers performers)

Why was the meeting great, or what makes a good meeting?

Sometimes I think you can sit in a meeting and be told a list of instructions, or (if your on the other end) You can give out some ideas, and everyone just sits there staring at you.

Everyone had an input yesterday, and all early indications are good. It is now very much an exciting time.

Martin and Helen (The goddess) were supportive as ever.

Rhys gave off the charm and trust that we've come to expect from a director.

Mr Brad-Leigh was observant and quick to offer a helping hand.

And Rob, bless him. He sat and listened and pitched in were ever necessary. (It is a shame he can't be in this one.)

Me and Kev bounced ideas like we always do, and yep we are both still on the same page.

All that we've got to do now is make our second production even better than the first.

Doors are starting to leave their frames and although only a crack is showing and there's along way to go, we're all up for it. Photo shoot next Tuesday!

New writing looms!

So does that cat from next door....Sod off!!!

laugh untill you can't

2007-01-18T16:40:00.000-08:00

Post man Pat, post man Pat, post man Pat and his black and white cat! ( Oooo mixed race )

Early in the morning, just as day is dawning, Pat feels he's/she's a very happy... well he/she should do. It's politically correct.

Set and everything

2007-01-16T16:21:00.000-08:00

January targets are all being met. What we need to do now is keep all the information on file.

The Broadway aside to being our residency is also council run. This means that it will have a similar program to the Key Theatre in Peterborough where this Holocaust performance will take place next week.

I wonder if Martin is aware of our devising skills. We've never even pushed the issue.

It's time to get something out there. 'Cranberry Juice'!

It's a great idea, and it sits well in my bonse.

Now i've just got to get it out.

Not bad at all.

2007-01-15T15:22:00.000-08:00

First meeting with martin was on Saturday just gone. Kev was ill so it was just me. Still went very well though.

Holocaust project is going well, no problems it's all gone very smoothly. Looking forward to being back in London full time now These seven day weeks are killing me.

Still all good. Oh yeah was able to offer my brother in law a job that felt good. He's coming to Dubai.

Great year so far. And i found a packet of chewits (strawberry flavour)on the train. Life doesn't get much better than this. Well...unless you own a wigwam!!

Wearing A Suit

2007-01-09T06:11:00.000-08:00

I've just come out of a meeting with the Mayor of Peterborough and various council employees.
I thought the Mayor was going to have a punch up at one point. What a laugh!!

Holocaust this afternoon, more ideas and connections.

Maybe a scene involving a chav who is full of his own self importance... no I didn't think it was a runner either.

last time i'm trying.

2007-01-08T14:48:00.000-08:00

I've now posted this blog three times. If it doesn't work this time i'm going to bed.

Rob has had to back out of Neville!!

Buger!!

He's a big loss. He has been offered some well paid work with The Blue Mountain Theatre Company, and with a beautiful wife and four charming children he'd be mad not to take it.

Rob I salute you.

Holocaust first day went well, good ideas, good work. Lets see if tomorrow they stick and develope.

Sleep well Rob mate...your family are very lucky!

What a day

2007-01-08T14:42:00.000-08:00

Rob has had to back out of Neville! He's been offered a well paid job with the Blue Mountain Company and with a beautiful wife and four charming children to look after he'd be foolish not to take it.

I wish we could pay him, he's gutted.

Rob if your reading this I salute you mate.

It's tough juggleing this job around, jobs tend to come all at once.

Holocaust first day went well. It's nice to be devising again. Good ideas today but it's all about tomorrow to see if any of them stick and are worth developing.

Sleep well Rob mate...your family are very lucky!

First Day

2007-01-08T14:00:00.000-08:00

Rob the rascall Maskell has had to drop out of Neville...buger!!!

He's a big loss. Still family commitments have to take charge and i'm proud of his decision. A big money job should help him through the year, and he can bloody well take me for a pint.

It's hard juggleing things in this job, i can't even begin to imagine what it would be like with four children, a beautiful wife and a cat to look after.

Rob if your listening, I salute you!!

Holocaust first day was real good. I think we're going to come up with something completely of the wall. We have built a good understanding of what it means to devise a show, now we've just got to look at content. The ideas are coming thick and fast. That is a good sign.

Tomorrows another day, building scenes and developing characters.

Meeting at the broadway on Saturday. Myself, Kev, Martin and Pete.

Sleep we..zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

I've just cracked it.

2007-01-05T11:22:00.000-08:00

Yeah i've just cracked my head on a basin. I bent down to pick up a sock after a very relaxing bath, then crack... I had to sit down for five minutes not sure if I was making a meal of it, or whether infact yes I was emergency room bound. It bloody hurt, and my new years resolution to stop swearing is over. Damn!!!

I've been working hard on Holocaust stuff and i'm near ready to start work with the students....wait a minute, my vision is fine and i'm not wearing my glasses.

Well every cloud..x

Know Your Product

2007-01-04T12:23:00.000-08:00

I went into Ipswich today and met the lady who organises the Pulse Festival. Lynn Whitehead. She gave me some good contacts for workshop purposes in June.

This basically means we can workshop some of our ideas. The students then help us better gage an audience reaction.

The thoughts are coming thick and fast for this devised performance based on 'binge drinking culture'.

Oddly enough i'm feeling quite thirsty!!

We're alive.

2007-01-03T05:28:00.000-08:00

Yep we survived the turn of the new year. A great night out was had in Cambridge by myself. I believe Kevin went to Church!! Start as you mean to go on kev Aye!!!

I've just had our first conversations of the year with Martin "The Boss" Costello. We've got to set up a meeting in the next two weeks to discuss technicians and georgia's set designs.

Also an early alarm bell, Rob has been offered work from the Blue Mountain group that is very well paid. He's going to have a chat with his beautiful lady wife, and get back to me.

Fingers Crossed XXXXX

Holocaust devising is going well, I came up with gem whilst laying wide awake at two this morning. Needs shaping though.

I think we should throw a party when Kev this fictional character in my blogging life manages to go to post. Come on my fellow founder member, I know you can do it.

So all is good!! Except i've not seen those Indians for a while. Strange but i'd kind of got used to walking past them everyday.

I even debated buying a wigwam. Oh well...maybe in the summer.

God damn 29th year!!

2006-12-30T03:08:00.000-08:00

Well here we are it's new years eve's eve. Shall we drink today just as a warm up to the night of nights or will that only make us more depressed as the inevitable washout occurs.

Well not for this puppy, I'm of to Cambridge, then moving to work for a week in Ipswich.

Preparation for the year!!!

Then it's back to London, to meet up with me counterpart Kevin. We shall then plan our attack.

Oh yes believe it's going to be our year!! That's not to say it wount be many peoples year. But we will be in there somewhere.

Neville is coming!!!!!

Just In

2006-12-27T03:04:00.000-08:00

We've just heard notice that our crazy idea for a play has been accepted at the Pulse Festival. This mean that we are now in a more main stream league of devising theatre.

"Cranberry Juice" (the working title) will be in June at the New Wolsey Studio Theatre Ipswich.

We're going to need to sort our calendar out.

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

Christams Week

2006-12-19T03:01:00.000-08:00

I helped out a friend of mine at the weekend with her pink party. She came up with the idea in the summer, it was all for breast cancer.

It was a very impressive night. A great mix of people, and a great laugh.

It's just dawned on me how great a feeling it is when your organisation goes real well.

The evening was so much fun, that it forced me to think of other acheivements made durng the year. Not just by us, but by other friends of ours aswell.

In total 2006 has been grand. Lots of interesting things have happened.

Christmas week now, so the big push at work in the panto. 7 days on 14 shows till the christmas drink up.

Feeling very good about it though, tired, and yet proud of the job I do and the people around me.

XXXXXXX

Them Nava Ho Indians

2006-12-17T02:35:00.000-08:00

Ok, right, two mates of mine decided that they were moving in with each other yesterday night. Yesterday being a drunken evening out to relax. They are a new couple (man and women) and clearly into each other.

Instant!!!

"Oh you should becareful doing such things so fast. All manner of terrible things could happen."

I thought...

"You 'A' hole!!! That's like sending a cowboy out to play with some Indians, sticking an arrow in his leg, and saying, "Have fun, Oh but you becareful this could happen. (Blood, pain and the occasional swear word.)

Why can't people just be supportive.

I'm of now. I'v got to find those Indians and dance. Well... not everyone is into pan pipes.

Support 'A' hole, support!!!!!

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

Bloody Tired

2006-12-13T10:32:00.000-08:00

Right, we compiled a list today of all the stuff to be getting on with as far as the company is concerned.

It's bloody long!!

Plus I heard the worst joke ever today. What's brown and makes people go ahh? Bistow!!

Rachel (the pony girl) Mustow stop sending me crap jokes. I'm beginning to dred my phone going off.

Holocaust devising is going well all though someone broke into my car and stole all my research. Never mind it was all spelt wrong anyway.!! Hope you try and use it ass hole!!

Good couple of days

2006-12-12T15:10:00.000-08:00

We're in decision making mode now.

Kevin told me off for swearing in our blogs, he's got a point, we know alot of Youth Theatre members that might find us quite amusing but, well, you never know, might take us a bit literally.

We've sent contracts and paid for rights. So we're ready for the new year. Just got to make sure the cast is ready.

Mr Brad-Leigh, if your listening I hope your in! But we're going to have to push for that commitment, as the new Neville poster is going to have pictures of us four in character.

Yep it's Mr Peter Brad-Leigh, he played 'Harding' in Cuckoo's nest where the idea for Yaller was born.

We've always wanted to work with Petey again, so in the end it was quite an easy decision. Thing is I know he's just got himself a new agent, that just means new ideas, hopes etc.
But we're feeling confidant at this stage.

I keep speaking to Rhys I just haven't found time to meet up with him yet. This week though I think.

Bank Account still needs to be done. Infact thats got to be next.

Holocaust work/research continues in school tomorrow.

The Pulse Festival application has gone off, ohh and i'm doing another two week clown course in February. I must speak to Ruth about stage fighting in March, then the good old actors centre, I would like to do a couple of accent workshops next year before the next phase of 'Someone Who'll Watch Over Me'

Peace brothers! Keep moving. Or in Robs words 'who loves ya!!'

xxxx

100%

2006-12-10T07:30:00.000-08:00

It's my thoughts that are way ward today. I'm having so many, in such a short space of time. Andrew (brother-in-law) has suggested that I get my own page of crap on MySpace. Well we all need to pour it some where.

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

2006-12-08T16:37:00.000-08:00

The Man In A Coat.
Yep i've found the title to my first standup routine. That's basically what I am. A man In a coat, my stories are my own, they cover alot of various subjects. My only latest progression is that I now don't freeze in winter, I've discovered that coats do keep you warm, thus comfortable and happy.
Ahh, I can sleep easy.

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

2006-12-07T15:40:00.000-08:00

OK

Sleep well every one! If you can sleep. If you can't you've probably gone out and had a drink, well then look forward to tomorrow. you never know what it might throw up.!!!!!!!!

yaller!

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

2006-12-06T00:21:00.000-08:00

Take Us Into The New Year.

It's arrived, I'm now the proud owner of a Dell Inspiron 6400.

Fitting rearly as i'm just of to run a workshop for one of our first devised projects next year.

Were just starting work on a Holocaust piece for the council of east England. Erm..i've been to a few council meetings about this and it's already been hinted that there is a certain route that they want us to take.

Oh yeah very politically correct, bull s##t!!!

I wonder If people truly get what the Holocaust was about. I'm not sure that I do yet but that what i'm about to find out.

I know it starts with the simple fact that we are all the same. And that there should be dignity in difference. But is there? What all the time?

We'll find out.

xxx

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

2006-12-05T07:27:00.000-08:00

Lets Get It On!!

Ok now the serious work begins. With the panto up and running and my heavy birthday celebrations out of the way, it's time for work mode!!

We got to send of the money for the rights to take Neville abroad. That sorts that one! Should really speak to Martin about all this aswell.

Kevin, my dipshit counterpart is heading this way for all the fun at the fair, so finaly we can get some pic's of us two dickheads on the old space.

Got to try and get Rob to come with him!!

Bank account...we must sort out this bank account.

My tax..boring!!!

I must get the photo's from the recent Friar Tuck shoot for Robin Hood, and I suppose I should phone my new agent. Na!!

Anything else, ..... probably! I should rearly make a list.

Peace!

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

2006-12-04T04:11:00.000-08:00

What A Wonderful World

Thank you for a great weekend boys, Nige and Si always make me howl with laughter. Shame about the food well in terms of it's lateness. But it was still the highlight of the evening when Si's food showed up. Five pieces of Pasta drizzled on with a sause that was reminisent of cat sick!! Um tasty!!! We did laugh though!!

Yaller Skunk Theatre Com

Keeping Up

2006-12-03T17:24:00.000-08:00

So here it is Merry Christmas, every bodys having fun, look to the future now it's only just begun!!

That's all i'm saying!!xxxxxxx

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

Dance Sparky Dance!

2006-12-02T02:07:00.000-08:00

We've managed to uncover some archieve footage prooving that Mark Curtis CAN dance!

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

2006-12-01T16:01:00.001-08:00

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

It's now me birthday and i'm to pissed to write much, cheers.
All grand, not much to report although i've not even checked me emails yet. Mind you i've not really done much today today at all.

Peace hope you are all well, thank you for all my birthday bollox!!

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

2006-12-01T16:01:00.000-08:00

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

2006-11-30T02:28:00.000-08:00

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

Birthday Wishes.

Jesus, i'm Twenty Nine tomorrow. Always new i'd make it so up yours all you doubters!!!

I think me and Kevin have got some choices to make in the coming days. Production time requires a level of commitment that depends on a strong will to survive. As a company if we have one flop, that's already one flop to many. No more Yaller!!

We've got a brilliant director in me old pal Rhys, and what a find Rob Maskell was. Even our little stage manager Danny boy is faultless in his commitment. Now we just need a fourth cast member for our next production Neville's Island.

We have a few people in mind, but it's not always easy to cast things, and I don't want to cast someone with the lure being a free holiday in Dubai.

Don't get me wrong, I have no whip to crack, I can't go ten minutes without laughing at something, which reminds me... I stood and watched some genuine Red Indians yesterday whilst paying for my new computer. They were playing pan pipes!! You don't see that every day!!

Anyway, as Kevin goes off to his advert casting and I head to the Key Theatre Peterborough to fashion a fat suit. I can walk into my day happy in the knowledge that our decisions can make or seriously f**k up our company.

Cool eh!!

I wonder If Red Indians wear pants?

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

2006-11-29T03:25:00.000-08:00

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

The Mis-Ter-Ons

Yep, as the mist set in last night i was having a wine binge. Not quite recovered yet and life still makes sense. Question! At what point does a mist become a haze.

Rob, you old ba****d, (in case your young one's are watching) We will certainly sort out some dates for a visit. Yes Robin Hood is going very well.

Kevin....WAKE UP!!!!

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

2006-11-28T04:47:00.000-08:00

Yaller Skunk Theatre Company

I've just seen the Stone Roses bass player!!

Primal Scream last night at the Cambridge Corn Exchange. Awesome!!!! Manny rocked, I'm beginning to make progress on getting through my 'things to do in life' list. Erm... I would love to devise a show that incorporated my favourite tunes... Kev, what do you think?

I'm buying a computer today. Yeah!!!