Every year Catherine Wheels tours one of its shows to primary schools across Scotland. As part of the Theatre in Schools Scotland Initiative (TISS) we have a new show in development, How To Fix A Broken Wing which will tour schools in Spring 2018. We meet the person central to making it all happen, Anna Derricourt, our Schools Development Manager.
How long have you been at Catherine Wheels?
Since 2012 when I was a freelancer helping out for a few months and never went away. I have known the company since the beginning though as I was working with Imaginate when ‘Martha’ was first performed there.
What does your job involve? Can you tell us about what you are currently working on?
I am the Touring and Schools Development Manager, booking all the European and UK touring, but sharing this at the moment as I am currently seconded for most of my week as Producer of the Theatre in Schools Scotland project.
What has been a Catherine Wheels highlight for you?
‘White’ does a huge amount of touring to France. On a visit to the company I opened the curtains during get in to discover the Eiffel Tower was our neighbour. Cotton and I climbed to the top one day before the morning performance.
What’s your favourite thing about your job?
I LOVE an in-school audience more than anything. A hall full of children who are completely at home in their surroundings getting completely involved in a terrific story. They don’t hold back!
What’s the best thing about working in theatre?
The people and the way they work.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to work as a Tour Manager?
Make life easier by working with shows you are utterly committed to and excited by. Enthusiasm is infectious and will show.
Can you tell us a Catherine Wheels secret?
Every tour we allocate a (very prestigious) “Best Janitor” award.