Robbie's Russell Actors Story

Robbie started training with Sherina when she was in charge of the Colchester branch of Young Actors Company  (head of Russell Actors) back in 2008, and stayed for five years. He now works as a Theatre Director and Writer in the UK. Sarah grabbed 5 minutes with him to interview him on his experience with Sherina and Russell Actors. 

Sarah: Can you tell us what’s been happening for you since graduating from Russell Actors (then The Young Actor's Company)?
Robbie: I went to Cambridge University to study Sociology but ended up doing more Theatre than my degree. I acted in various plays, including a tour of the USA. I then turned to directing, directing a number of student shows. Since graduating from University I have worked professionally in theatre. This has largely been with the Mercury Theatre running workshops, but also assisting directors in West End and off West End venues. I've also created a one-woman play, Wife, that has toured to various venues and went to Edinburgh Fringe.
S: Have you got anything coming up that you can tell us about?
R: Wife is going to the Manchester Royal Exchange in April which is exciting. I'm also directing Rabbit by Nina Raine for Protocol That at the Mercury Theatre, which will then tour to Ipswich and London. I'm planning on taking a play to Melbourne Fringe Festival in September 2018. I'm currently editing a short film that I wrote and directed, which should be finished and out in early 2018.
S: Wow, Amazing stuff. I can't wait to see all of these things in action! How long were you with Russell Actors?
R: For about 5 years! Then I helped out with running classes and still go back to run workshops sometimes.
S: Has Russell Actors helped you in your development as an artist?
R: It's definitely helped me a lot for my professional life in theatre.
S: In what way?
R: It introduced me to concepts, styles and attitudes in theatre-making from an early age that set me up well. I also had a confidence and security in knowing some ways to go about making theatre because of the opportunities RA gave us to grow our own projects. It also taught me to make theatre in a way that avoids pretentiousness and is collaborative and open.

Rabbit will open at The Mercury Theatre on the 23rd March. Tickets available here: 
https://www.mercurytheatre.co.uk/event/rabbit/
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Follow Robbie on Twitter @RTaylorHunt