​It's been 7 years in the making but we finally did it.
I learned about Laura Jury and the The South Devon Players Theatre & Film Company, Brixham shortly after I arrived in the UK. I was instantly impressed by the drive, tenacity, and sheer determination of this female theatrical powerhouse. Laura has made a way out of literally no way to build and brand her theatre company. As a mixed-race, woman of colour, she has beaten back the odds of owning a theatre company in an area of England that is certainly not known for it's diversity, inclusion, or tolerance of "others". With little to no money, and very little public funds, Laura has raised money for her company in creative ways like having car boot sales, selling on Ebay, sweets sales, and anything her creative mind can think of to finance her projects. I have sat back and watched and admired her progression, her work, her work ethic over the years, in awe of all that she has been able to accomplish.
It is definitely a labour of love, but by no means should one mistake this for being a low-rent production company. The costumes alone will show you that. The talented performers in her group will show you that too. Many members of the company are neurodivergent, autistic, and other challenges, which none of it deflects from their incredible on-stage performances.
So, after 7 years, Laura and I combined forces as I was able to host her latest production, "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at The Birmingham Black Box. She and her company drove 3.5 hours to get to Birmingham, ran a full tech/dress rehearsal, set the stage, and then performed the 3 hour show before driving the 3.5 hour return journey! The synergy was palpable as these performers gave it their absolute all in front of a delightfully enthusiastic audience.
There are already talks about our next collaborative effort and I'm very excited about the prospects. Let me tell you all, it's not easy being a Black woman/woman of colour in business, especially in theatre. But somehow, we're doing it and we're making lots of progress in the area of inclusion for all people to participate in the arts. I feel so privileged to call Laura my friend, she has helped me in ways I can't disclose here, but she's been a rock in my life's progression. Stay tuned to see what we come up with next! Sending lots of love to this outstanding group.

​Review from Brixham Theatre - original post at
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"Something Wicked This Way Comes” - Macbeth at Brixham Theatre.
From the first glimpse beyond the rising curtain, it was evident that this performance from The South Devon Players Theatre & Film Company, Brixham would be a distinctive and innovative take on the timeless classic.
Firstly, I felt the need to point out the sheer amount of lines these actors mastered is truly commendable!
The portrayal of the witches was a standout. Cloaked in mesmerising costumes, they weaved through dramatic movements. The use of lighting throughout the performance heightened moments of mystique, mental wellness, violence, and atmospheres that remained after the curtains closed.
What truly set this production apart was the incorporation of dynamic acting in the aisles. This had the bonus of drawing the audience into the narrative with an intensity and unpredictability rarely seen in traditional renditions.
The talented cast delivered performances that brought the characters to life in an authentic and emotionally charged manner. Set against a post-apocalyptic backdrop, the play's tragic beginning and foreshadowing set the stage for the Macbeths' descent into madness. It added a layer of relevance, making the timeless text accessible and relatable to a contemporary audience.
A poignant moment was Lady Macbeth's rendition of the "Out, Damned Spot" scene. The actress brought a haunting vulnerability to the character, inviting the audience to empathise with the internal torment of Lady Macbeth's descent into guilt-ridden madness.
The success of the production was not only a testament to the talent of the performers but also highlighted the dedication of the volunteers at Brixham Theatre. Their commitment ensured a seamless and enjoyable experience, contributing to the overall positive impression of the evening.
In reflection, a quote from Macbeth himself comes to mind: "Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage." This production not only embraced the inherent theatricality of the play but also left a lasting impression, a shadow that will continue to "strut and fret" in the minds of the audience.
For those yet to experience this riveting rendition of Macbeth, tickets are still available. Don't miss the chance to witness a play seamlessly combining tradition with innovation, and classic themes with contemporary relevance. It is a great performance for those studying the play in school or college, or as a refreshing take on a classic for those who enjoy Shakespeare.
Ticket purchases and futher details can be found at www.brixhamtheatre.uk
By Brixham Theatre's Writer in Residence Bethan Rees