Our second interview is held with experienced actor and director Stephen Labourne...
Q. Where in Lincolnshire are you based, and what was your first ever live performance that you participated in?
"[I'm] based in Grimsby. Started as sound technician on various productions at Caxton Theatre [in the] mid-1990s. Later moved onto stage, appearing in 25 plays."
Q. What was it that first drew you to the local theatre scene? Has it been a constant in your life, or was there a hiatus due to work/life commitments? What sparked or, indeed, relighted your interest?
"I started out as a (very bad) guitarist in local bands in my teens, so was on stage. Had a break then got into theatre in my 30’s. Was drawn in by good quality amateur drama."
Q. Quite simply, give me three words that describe what theatre means to you.
"Unpredictable, Immediate, Exciting."
Q. Can you share with us your fondest, or a particularly strong, on-stage/backstage memory?
"Standing in front of a mirror in full costume, with 2 minutes to go, wondering what on earth possessed me to do this."
Q. What is the current production you're involved in, and your role within the company?
"It is Martin McDonagh's ‘The Pillowman’ - a dark horror comedy. I am the Director."
Q. Would you rather be given the chance to either A. Direct any script of your choice or B. Work with any cast of your choice?
"I think its all about the people, so (B)"
Q. There are many different styles and approaches to directing. What's yours?
"Get out of the way of good actors, guide them and collaborate with them."
Q. It's rarely always a bed of roses, do you have any incidences or stories from this or previous productions where it has, perhaps, been far from an enviable situation?
"There are always issues with amateur productions, long rehearsal periods, life events causing issues etc. However that’s where the good stories come from."
Q. What creative work is on the horizon for you?
"I will be directing ‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, which is on in October 2025 at the Caxton Theatre."
Q. Back to The Pillowman, could you give me one popular song title that describes the 'The Pillowman' experience for the audience. NB. It doesn't have to be a song in the show, but it may well be.
"'Shot by Both Sides' – By ‘Magazine’. Goes some way to describing the dilemma faced by Katurian!"
The Pillowman is being performed at Caxton Theatre, 18th - 25th January 2025. Please click on the link below for more information and to buy tickets.
Comments