Hi Mollie! Can you briefly introduce your creative practice?
Hi, I’m Mollie and I’m originally from Southampton. I’ve been training as an actor at Bath Spa for three years and now a training dramaturg in London.
I’ve always been interested in exploring communication in theatre. Language, or lack of, has always been something that has drawn me in, especially through the practice of watching. I also explore themes of un-interest, which sounds peculiar when trying to explain it but the general everyday life, what a so-called “normal” person does each day.
Reflecting on your journey as a creative practitioner so far, what are some moments that you’re particularly proud of?
Predominantly the use of music, live music. Throughout this last year, I’ve been very lucky with meeting musicians, my partner being one of them. So whilst creating new work, an idea sparked to add live jazz music to work I had written. This new element of music was well received by the audience. It was a truly lovely moment to watch.
Is there a specific project or show that you consider a turning point in your career?
I began to write ‘In The Pocket’, this time last year, all the elements that I wanted to explore really sparked my interest in dramaturgy, which is what I’m doing now, it was a real turning point.
In The Pocket: Ever been curious as to what happens behind closed doors? With an underscoring of jazz, these flatmates welcome you into their home to show you just how fluidly they move as one, playing together In The Pocket. But what is the consequence of something else living rent free in their head?
What challenges have you encountered throughout your creative journey?
To be honest, I’ve never had to ‘direct’ a show, so that was hard, being in charge of so many aspects, as well as producing, writing and trying to be in charge of a jazz band too. It was tricky. But I’ve learnt not everything can be done alone, you need a team around you, people who understand how your brain works.
What are the key goals you hold for the next stage of your artistic development?
As of right now, I’d love to keep exploring language whilst writing theatre, how I can create theatre that holds a slightly different grasp on the audience, something not necessarily about the story but how the story is done. I’ll be continuing to work with my partner on musical projects too. We work well as a team.
What are you focussing on to achieve your future goals?
Now it’s time to network! I wish I was joking. I’ve met so many creatives at Bath Spa, all with different skills, incredible skills. Now I’m in London, I have to reach out, now is the time to find the people who I work well with.
Who would you would like to collaborate with in the future?
I’d love to collaborate with more musicians, anyone who is passionate and willing to learn, try and sometimes fail but always get back up.
I also managed to catch the final London Mime Festival. I watched the likes of a theatre company called Still Life. They’re exceptionally skilled in what they do, I would love to work with them some day, but that won’t be for a very long time.
What’s next for you?
The plan now is to focus on writing material, I have loads slowly cooking, but nothing ready. I’m excited to see how being a creative in London is different to training as an actor in Bath.
