Feeling like the first day of school, director Catherine Paskell (who I met at the interview) is an absolute dream at putting me at ease. The team is larger than I thought (Director, Producer, 4 cast members, Production manager, Writer, Designer, Lighting Designer, Sound Designer, Design assistant, Marketing Manager, Audio Describer and Chapter staff) but all incredibly welcoming. After a quick introduction of names/ roles we have an introduction from Catherine on Dirty Protest’s ambition to create a company of adventure, belonging and love. I hadn’t realised the script had gone through a three year process of development including research and development since I saw the production in 2013.

I caught myself wondering what makes Catherine a good director? We were only a few minutes in and I had complete faith in her. I concluded it required someone warm, approachable and enthusiastic who makes every member of the team feel valued for turning up and appreciating every individual’s role and effort. Communication is key; make eye contact with every single person in the room and smile!  

What is planned for ‘Parallel Lines’?

-A tour including audio description and touch tour of the set, costumes and maybe even personal characteristics of the performers to ensure the performance is accessible for audience members with limited vision. Recordings were made for the audio programme also.

-A 30 second trailer. Conversations commenced about whether this could include a deleted scene? Dirty Protest are trying to avoid the typical theatre trailer or showing scene sections and make it more like an advert for a film but without giving too much away. I can’t wait to see it!

-Play in a Bag writer’s workshops (check out the Events section on NTW Community for info) where emerging or established writers across Wales have the opportunity to workshop, create and see their work performed by professional actors. This opportunity is available in English and Welsh.

There is so much more to Dirty Protest than performing new writing- they are a company supporting local artists and trying to make theatre and training accessible. What a privilege it is to be able to see them at work.

After introductions we start an initial read through. Already the casting is perfect (with two returning cast members from the 2013 production) and the reading captivating, humorous and inspiring.

What is different?

-It is now set in the present tense whereas the 2013 production was set 3 months after so instead of seeing the character’s reactions to the event we are seeing them experience it first hand. This has enhanced Julie’s role (Simon’s wife) and her relationship with Simon is much more developed.

-The set is now expressionistic with no off stage area. A table and some chairs are all the performers have. How will this affect a production that was previously (2013 Chapter production) naturalistic?

- The final scene! I am so glad this has been included but no spoilers so you’ll have to come and see for yourselves!