In December 2010 I had the pleasure of being Directed by James Grieve (Paines Plough) in 'Pornography' by Simon Stephens. Simon very kindly came to see the show and also gave a question and answer session at the RWCMD, along side the very talented Lyric AD, Sean Holmes.
Simon has a unique way at looking at British Theatre and I believe this shows in his work, but what seems more idiosyncratic to his writing is a ravenous exploration of the idea of 'home'. This is what intrigues me as an individual, and also strikes chords with us a theatre company in the sense that we believe heavily in being proud of where you're from - your own 'home'; whatever that may mean to you. Bands such as 'Elbow' constantly root there lyrics in their Greater Manchester home life, and because of the truthfulness in their storytelling - their concept of home resonates in millions of ears across the world. I defy anybody to listen to the track 'Station Approach' without running beautiful, personal films of 'home' in their head.
Simon's appetite for new and exciting work is inspiring. As a theatre company in it's infant stages, the following article feeds our ambitions even more than most; but this is still vital reading for all-bar-none!
Enjoy!... we certainly did!
'Skyding-Blindfolded' by Simon Stephens
By
James Fairhurst
