An Ember That Needed Fuel

That memory came up on Sunday (the day after the run ended) How amazing is this Universe?! You can't deny that it doesn't provide.

Two years ago I had a vision, I knew that it would come around SOMEHOW but I didn't know where to start. Looking back over some old notebooks, I had jotted ideas and phrases down but couldn't quite merge them together. Then in September last year I saw the call out for the Hive Award at the upcoming Greater Manchester Fringe and 10 months later here we are.

Whilst Stained naturally evolved from a general rant about tattoo and body mod culture, into a more focused and personal story that still raises questions around prejudice that the community faces. Writing the character of Johnny and building his world was something I didn't think I could ever achieve but it just goes to show what you can do with the right support and help. Was it difficult writing and performing some of the more personal poems? Absolutely yes, but would I change it? Never. I know that this is potentially the start of a bigger project that can/will continue into next year, Again, there's an idea that I can see would work.

The week that has just been is firmly cemented as one of the proudest moments of my career so far, The audience reception has been fantastic, the reviews have spoken for themselves, it's been an amazing time. Do I have a favourite night? No, because each night held something unique that I was able to learn from.

I have spoken about this already but I seriously can't thank the Fringe team for all of their help in bringing Stained to the stage, and to my wonderful Mentor in Ben Moor. I've learned so much and I can't wait to share this knowledge with others.

Thank you as well to each and every person that attended the performances, for supporting poetry and for all the kind words.

Thank you to all my friends and family that travelled over and for putting up with the constant rehearsals and writing.

(Thank you Phil for the cracking t-shirts you got printed up!)

From here, I'm now looking at the future of Stained and the places it can go. From fringes to theatres to studios to maybe a front room? who knows what the future holds, but this is just the start.