SPOTLIGHT ON... JAMIE HARRIS
- theatrereviews
- Apr 29
- 5 min read
Louth Playgoers promise another stirring production in May 2025, so we chatted to LPS guru Jamie Harris to find out more...
Q. Where in Lincolnshire are you based, and what was your first ever live performance that you participated in?
"I am based in Louth, Lincolnshire and I am a theatre director based at the Louth Playgoers Riverhead Theatre (LRT). I have directed almost fifty productions there in the last 15 years.
The first show I participated in with LPS was 'Calamity Jane' in May 2011, playing the leading role of Wild Bill Hicock."
Q. What was it that first drew you to the local theatre/arts scene, and Louth Playgoers in particular?
"I arrived in Louth in October 2010 having completed a 3 year BA Hons degree in Drama at the University of Aberystwyth, and fresh from a full-month-stint at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival that year. I moved to Louth to be with my then-partner and was eager to continue on with what I had learned over the last three years, so I auditioned for Louth Playgoers three days after arriving and was lucky enough to be cast in their main musical that year. Since then I have performed in an array of concerts, plays, pantomimes and musicals and as I mentioned previously had the pleasure of directing almost fifty productions for them."
Q. Quite simply, give me three words that describe what theatre means to you.
"Family, Creativity, Life."
Q. A quick trawl through the socials of LPS, and you've directed many different genres and performed in quite a few differing shows too. Do you prefer directing or acting?
"Whilst I love performing and certainly don’t do as much of it as I used to, directing is my passion. I love being able to craft a show and see it come to life before my eyes. From the initial ideas meetings with my creative team through to tech/dress week and the end project. I love each and every aspect of the process and don’t think I will ever tire of it."
Q. What is the current production you're involved in, and your role within the company?
"I am the current Chairman of Louth Playgoers Society and Louth Riverhead Theatre which is a huge role in itself! I have also had the privilege of being President of the society on two occasions (2018/19 and 2022/23)
My current project is a production of the musical 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' of which I have the honour of once again sitting in the director’s chair for, for LPS’ biggest show of the season."
Q. Is this a 'childhood favourite' or new ground for you? And, for fans of the film(s), is there lots of familiarity?
"We chose this show as we felt it was one that would appeal to all ages.
The plot sticks very closely to the 1971 Gene Wilder film version and includes songs from there that all will know, such as 'Pure Imagination', 'I’ve Got A Golden Ticket' and of course 'The Oompa Loompa March.' So there is plenty of nostalgia for those that know and love that version of the story.
But there are also lots of new songs, along with some modernisation to characters and dialogue which will appeal to the younger generation. Particularly in the almost caricature and stereotyped characters such as the Gloops, Salts, Beauregardes and TeeVee’s.
So all in all it definitely is one for all the family and we have no doubt will be loved by all who come along."
Q. Being slightly provocative here, what role would you like to play if you were suddenly 'called to action'?
"Oooooo….it’s no secret I would love to have a crack at playing Wonka. He is such a multi-layered character verging on going from comedic to downright sadistic in the blink of an eye. He is the glue that holds the show together and ,let's be honest, a character that everyone knows and has an opinion on, so I would have loved the chance to put my spin on him!
He also has some cracking musical numbers….although not sure I could keep up with the pace of 'Strike That, Reverse It' which is insanely fast and wordy!"
Q. Directing can sometimes be a thankless role... What words of wisdom/encouragement would you share with any aspiring directors? And what are the joys and lows of directing, particularly a show like this with a strong brand following?
"You’re right, directing is often a thankless role. Not by cast and crew as they understand just how difficult, complex and time-consuming it is and will always show their appreciation to you. But [rather] by the audiences, who I don’t believe understand [what an] undertaking the role is. But how could they? They aren’t to know I suppose!
My main advice to any aspiring director is threefold. Firstly, you have to have a clear vision and lead your team in helping you achieve that vision. Secondly, be willing to compromise. Work with your creative teams and of course gear them towards what you want them to achieve. But do not insist on the impossible – compromise and find the middle ground as needed. And thirdly, and possibly the most important, do not become a theatre director for glory, accolades and applause. That is not what the role is about. This role is about creativity, nurturing and leadership. If you crave applause then best off staying on the stage instead of behind it!"
Q. What other creative work is on the horizon for you?
"I have several directing projects coming up. Our annual summer concert (now in its 9th year) followed by a fantastically funny production of 'Cluedo' to be staged in October 2025. Then I move onto our Christmas Concert before entering 2026 ready and raring to go as I will be directing next year’s main musical Disney’s 'The Little Mermaid' to be staged in May 2026."
Q. Back to 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory', what's your favourite number?
"I must admit I have a soft spot for 'The View From Here' which is the final number in the show, and is sung by Charlie and Wonka. It is a beautiful yet complex song, particularly for our two Charlie’s as the timing on it is incredibly difficult, about one generation handing over the reins to another and being able to change your life for the better.
And it’s all sung from the great glass elevator which, when you see it, is going to create an absolutely wonderful ending to a what we hope is going to be a show people will remember for a long long time."
Tickets for 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' (Wed. 14th - Sun. 25th May, various dates and times) are available via the link below:
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