The Middle, as part of the YEP (Young Everyman Playhouse) programme, took to the Everyman stage on October 8.
Director Olivia Byrne spoke about her experience in the programme and how she feels after directing her first on stage performance.
“I’d never directed anything before, and I don’t have a performance background. Actually before this I’d not stepped foot in a rehearsal room! I’ve learnt so much about so many different roles.”
The Everyman Playhouse Directors festival hit the stage last week. There were 5 plays in total between September 27 and October 12.
YEP work with young people to assist them in getting into theatre. From directors, writers, actors to producers, the scheme works on teaching new talent on how to get a play from its writing stage to a full scale production.
Olivia directed the Middle, the second of two plays from David Eldridge which explore love and relationships.
In such a male-dominated field, Olivia expressed that in the beginning she felt imposter syndrome but once she found her feet, asked for help and worked relentlessly- the play was a great success and sold out on two out of three shows.
“This has made me realise I can actually do it. 100% this is what I want to do now. I’ve always thought directing was really out of reach, I had no idea how to get into it. The YEP programme has given me that stepping stone I needed to pursue directing.”
Here’s what Olivia had to say about the play:
Featured Image; Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse
