Josie is a writer, actor and producer of colour from Nottingham …

Josie’s creative mission is to shine a spotlight on the lives of women of colour in twenty-first-century Britain, concentrating on how their mental health struggles are continually stigmatised and often ignored. Josie wants to create theatre for the Netflix generation that discusses societal issues that are poignant to millennials. Josie’s previous work includes TRAILBLAZERS, a short play, for Forest Green School, premiering at Hackney Empire. LOVE ME OR DIE, a monologue for ‘Common’ an anthology of new dynamic working-class monologues, published by Team Angelica Publishing, 2022, and ROTTEN.

We spoke to Josie about ROTTEN and working with Riki Beadle-Blair to bring it to life

Please introduce yourself …
I’m Josie White, an LGBTQIA+ writer, actor, and producer of colour from Nottingham. My heritage is Trinidadian and Jamaican on my Mum’s side and British and Irish on my Dad’s. I’m working predominately in theatre at the moment, creating exciting, thought-provoking, and entertaining theatre for young people.

Describe your life right now in a word or one sentence …
A journey of learning and growth

What started you on the path to becoming a writer?
It was working as an actor on Rikki Beadle-Blair’s masterpiece, GUTTED that really inspired me. I was fresh out of drama school, where I studied mostly classical text and was playing characters that were usually a lot older than me, and even though they were interesting, I couldn’t fully relate to them. GUTTED is a modern, challenging and thrilling, story about troubled young people growing up and trying not to make the same mistakes as their parents. Hearing Rikki’s inspiration behind the play got me thinking about the stories that I wanted to tell and gave me the confidence to believe that they should be told.

Tell us about your latest project ROTTEN what it’s about and what it means to you personally.
ROTTEN is my first full-length play which I developed under the mentorship of Rikki Beadle-Blair during the pandemic. The play follows three young, regional actresses: Saoirse, Coco, and Sonia as they struggle to survive in London. The electricity’s been turned off, they’re stealing their neighbour’s Wi-Fi connection and are completely broke. Living in the posh block of flats opposite them is an aristocrat/social media influencer, who they spy on every night, through their grotty living room window. One evening has the anti-heroes in an all-new position of power when they spy their neighbour in a compromising position and are later persuaded by Sonia’s boyfriend Ross to blackmail them. But their scheming soon spirals into complete anarchy and it’s every person for themselves!

ROTTEN is so close to my heart because it depicts the socio-economic crisis that is happening in Britain right now! The play challenges morality, capitalism, and social media culture, with powerful female roles that break stereotypes and showcase regionality.

What was happening in your world that inspired you to write this …
As a young actor trying to fulfil my dreams, while struggling to make ends meet in London, I became conscious of the huge gap between “the haves” and “the have-nots”. Sitting on the tiny balcony of my council flat that sat directly opposite a multi-million-pound block of apartments, I began to wonder what the lives of the people living in them must be like, and how easy it would be to become obsessed with who they are and what they have.

ROTTEN came out of these observations and I feel holds a mirror up to society, challenging the very make-up of it, by displaying characters that are frustrated and beaten down by their position in the world and desperate to change their circumstances. Saoirse, Coco, Sonia, and Ross continually challenge their morals and principles in ROTTEN, making shocking and at times disturbing decisions in their pursuit of wealth, but is this surprising when in today’s society what used to be classed as luxuries now seem like necessities? And thanks in part to social media and reality TV, young people can easily find themselves in a vicious cycle, where they never feel like they have enough.

How did you work with Rikki Beadle-Blair the director to bring your words to life?
I’ve been extremely privileged to have Rikki mentor me through this project, both dramaturgically and as a friend who has been in the industry for a long time and has built an amazing career. Being able to turn to him for advice has been a gift! Getting ROTTEN to where it is now has taken a lot of hard work and has really been a joint effort between myself, Rikki and our co-producers Emmerson & Ward.

As a new playwright, Rikki’s guidance was imperative, he taught me crucial skills and encouraged me to be brave with my writing. I would send scenes to him, he would give me constructive notes and before I knew it, I had a first draft! Rikki encouraged me to get a group of actor friends together via Zoom to read it, so I could hear my work, and this was the most helpful exercise for me. Immediately I was able to hear where I needed to make changes. Another skill Rikki taught me was how to cut text, which is an extremely difficult thing to do as a new writer, who is precious about what they have created but entirely necessary.

Why and how did you incorporate humour and thriller elements into your play while addressing serious topics like the cost-of-living crisis, capitalism, mental health, and social media?
Tackling hard subjects with elements of humour is generally how people cope with harsh realities, and it is a tool I use in ROTTEN and my other work to get audiences comfortable talking about the uncomfortable.

It’s said that you were influenced by Alfred Hitchcock and Agatha Christie. What is it about who-dun-its and suspense thrillers that speaks to you? – which Alfred Hitchcock & Agatha Christie films/books are your favourite?
Hitchcock and Agatha Christie have always been huge influences on my work. Although extremely different writers, they both encapsulate to me the great tropes of classic thriller. What I like about their stories is that they always have interesting characters, strong plots, and lots of twists and turns. My favourite Agatha Christie has to be A Murder Is Announced and my favourite Hitchcock is Rear Window.

Highs, lows, solutions …
The biggest highs would have to be when I found out that we’d secured funding to create and tour ROTTEN. It was a long process and writing bids can feel like a never-ending task at times. When I feel like this, I always think it’s best to talk to someone, and just get your thoughts out so that you’re not bottling things up. Manifestation and meditation also really help me.

In terms of lows, I think that in this current economic climate, it’s so hard to create new writing and even harder to put it on. We went through a few funding rejections, and it feels awful when you’ve worked so hard. I think when this happens it’s best to take a moment, breathe, maybe talk to a friend, and then roll your sleeves up and work out what your next step is. It’s ok to feel disheartened but important not to give up.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU …

If not this, then what?
I think I’d be a Historian, probably specialising in The War of the Roses. History was one of my favourite subjects at school and I still have a real passion for it.

What’s made you Sad, Mad, Glad this week?
Glad— Sitting in the Garden at my Nana’s house last Sunday. The sun was shining, and it was lovely and warm!

What are you watching right now?
I’ve just finished binge-watching Bodkin on Netflix. I usually love a documentary though. Anything true crime.

What are you reading right now?
I’m re-reading The Little Book of Manifestation.

What are you listening to right now?
I’m into older bands like Queen and The Beatles, but I’ve been listening to a lot of Amy Winehouse recently and falling in love with her music again.

The last thing you saw on stage?
I just saw The Kite Runner. The show was first on in Nottingham over ten years ago and I missed it then, so was thrilled to watch it!

What’s on your bucket list? 
I really want to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

Where’s your happy place?
Home

Who’s the most important person in your life? Who do you rely on the most?
I couldn’t pick one, but it would have to be my family, we’re extremely close and I couldn’t cope without them.

Celebrate someone else (who do you rate right now?)
The five actors in my play, ROTTEN. Kavita Vyas, Narisha Lawson, Sam Butters, Nicola Taggart and Alice Berry! They are all super talented and are killing it on tour at the moment. I feel like a proud Mum every time I watch them!

Celebrate yourself … (make us proud of you)
I’ve struggled with my mental health for a long time, but I feel that I’ve been able to use writing to explore my feelings and hence understand myself and the world around me better. Creating complex characters who don’t always do the “right thing” but you still find yourself drawn to them and wanting them to succeed because they reflect the parts of ourselves we attempt to hide has definitely made me more compassionate to myself and
others.

Whose footsteps are you following in?
That’s a hard one! I’d have to say all the amazing artists and creatives of colour that have paved the way for future generations in this industry

What’s Next?
Taking my play ROTTEN on tour again, which will include a London run!

Where can we find you?
@Josiemwhite (Twitter/X) @Josiemw1 (Instagram)

Where can we see your latest work?
ROTTEN will be touring again this Autumn! Keep an eye on co-producers Emmerson & Ward and director Rikki Beadle-Blair’s twitter (@Emmersonward @RikkiBB) for dates and locations.

ROTTEN Toured until 23rd May 2024

Popular Netflix series Stranger Things has been brought to life by a multi-award-winning creative team, who take theatrical storytelling and stagecraft to a whole new dimension …

Hawkins, 1959: a regular town with regular worries. Young Jim Hopper’s car won’t start, Bob Newby’s sister won’t take his radio show seriously and Joyce Maldonado just wants to graduate and get the hell out of town. When new student Henry Creel arrives, his family finds that a fresh start isn’t so easy… and the shadows of the past have a very long reach.

Marking her West End debut Ella Karuna Williams plays Patty Newby. Her television credits include The Equalizer and she has recently released her first EP, Silent Noise. We spoke to her about being part of the Stranger Things Universe …

Please introduce yourself …
My name is Ella Karuna Williams, and I’m an actor who is currently portraying Patty Newby in the West End Production of Stranger Things: The First Shadow. I’m 18 years old, and I’m from New Jersey back in the USA.

Describe your life right now in a word or one sentence …
A whirlwind.

What started you on this particular career path?
When I was about 9 or 10 years old, I made my “acting debut” in a production of Shrek the Musical Jr. at a local children’s theatre as Teen Fiona. The first time I stepped on that stage in front of an audience, I remember being hit with the most terrifying yet exhilarating feeling. My mom actually told me afterwards that she could see my eyes widen as I faced the audience for the first time. I wanted to experience that again, so I kept acting in community theatre/school productions and have ultimately gotten to act professionally as well. Stepping into other people’s shoes and living in make-believe worlds never stops being fun. It’s hard work, but it’s so worth it.


Tell us about your latest project – Stranger Things: The First Shadow…
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is a stage show on the West End — expect to laugh, cry, and gape in astonishment at the mind-blowing effects that have been achieved on that stage, and the beautiful story at its heart. It’s a prequel to the Netflix series that takes place in 1959 and centres around the origin story of Henry Creel, aka Vecna, which my character, Patty Newby, plays a large role in. It also features other well-known and loved characters like Joyce, Bob, and Hopper. What’s really cool about the show is that it’s got the Stranger Things lore and vibes that fans of the show will love, but it’s also a standalone piece, so you don’t have to watch the Netflix show to understand it.

Can you tell us about Patty and what her goals are?
Patty Newby is the adopted sister of Bob Newby, and she’s a freshman at Hawkins High. She doesn’t quite fit in with the other students and I think just longs for acceptance, which she tries to find through Henry Creel (who also struggles to fit in) and through learning more about her past. She’s incredibly imaginative and loves comic books — particularly Wonder Woman — which really allows her to bond with Henry. I think one of her main goals is to just escape her lot in life – discover more about herself and her roots and go beyond the small-town upbringing she’s had.

As you’ve mentioned, Stranger Things: The First Shadow is set 25 years before the Netflix series. What aspects of the characters might audiences recognise?
Louis, Isabella, Chris, Oscar, Patrick, and the rest of the company do an incredible job of portraying the younger versions of characters that Stranger Things fans know and love; they simultaneously honour the source material while bringing their own flavour to it all. So audiences can expect to find comfort in the familiarity of these characters while also discovering new depths to them. I hope they’ll also have fun discovering entirely new characters — like Patty. What I think Stranger Things does so well in terms of all its characters — new or old – is to revisit and explore the feelings associated with growing up and figuring out who you are, feeling different, and wanting more out of life than the lot you’ve been given.

Given the huge fanbase for Stranger Things, is there pressure to live up to the series?
Because I’m playing a new character, I don’t have the pressure that the others have of taking a beloved character and then making it their own, but I do feel the pressure of creating a new one from scratch. The Duffer Brothers have crafted such a rich and brilliant world, so it was really important to me that Patty felt like she “fit” within the Stranger Things universe. The only Patty that audiences see is the one in the play, so she has to be fully fleshed out and established and complex to (hopefully) captivate people. Luckily, our writer, Kate Trefry, and our directors, Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin, gave me so much brilliant material to work with.

Before joining the cast, had you watched the series? If so, who are your favourite characters?
Of course. Series 1 came out when I was about 10 or 11, and it absolutely terrified me. I’m still a scaredy cat now, but luckily, I gave it another try when I was a bit older and fell in love with it. It’s just so good. And my favourite characters are Steve, Max, and Dustin — I particularly love the Steve-Dustin duo.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU …

What are you watching right now? I finally started The Bear.

What are you reading right now? I love books, so this question is very exciting. I’m currently reading The Martian by Andy Weir, and I’m enjoying it so far. I usually gravitate towards literary fiction and fantasy books rather than sci-fi, but this one is helping to bring me out of my comfort zone while keeping me on the edge of my seat. Also, while we’re talking about books, I have to mention a favourite I’ve read this year. Pachinko by Min Jin Lee is a beautiful story that explores the complex experience of Koreans in both Japan and Japan-occupied Korea, familial relationships, and resilience through four generations of one family. It’s an absolute must read.

What are you listening to? I’m listening to a lot of Lizzy McAlpine, who is also a big inspiration for writing my own music. My favourites of hers are Pancakes for Dinner, Reckless Driving, and All My Ghosts. Pancakes for Dinner is one I particularly like to play on the guitar and sing along to.

Last thing you saw on stage? I saw The Unfriend by Steven Moffat at the Wyndham’s Theatre. I have a few friends in it — the cast was brilliant, as was the show. It was just really fun to watch a silly family comedy, especially given that I get to “live” in the very scary Upside Down six days a week.

Whose footsteps are you following in? Hmm, this is a hard one. I guess I would like to follow in the footsteps of all the actors that have made me want to be an actor. There are so many, but to name a few – Jennifer Lawrence, Samuel L. Jackson, Emma Stone, and Zendaya.

What’s next? I’m taking it one day at a time at the moment, but I’d love to branch into some film and TV next. A limited series or a period piece would be so much fun, but the sky’s the limit, really. It’s also a dream of mine to work with Greta Gerwig.

What’s your socials? I’m on instagram: @ellakarunawilliams

Stranger Things: The First Shadow runs at the Phoenix Theatre in London until December 15th 2024. Find out more here.

Angela Morris is a Specialist Business Coach with over 25 years of experience in the Health and Social Care sector.

Specialising in supporting providers catering to children and adults in need of care and support she has a master’s degree in Applied Psychology and diplomas in Child Development, Life Coaching, and Financial Advice. A proud mother of three sons and a devoted grandmother, Morris draws from her personal and professional experiences to address the challenges mothers encounter regardless of cultural backgrounds in her latest book Don’t Let Them Stop You … It’s Personal!

Please introduce yourself …
My name is Angela Morris, I am a mother of 3. I am a business coach and author. I am of Afro-Caribbean heritage, born to Jamaican parents and raised in London.

Describe your life right now in a word or one sentence …
I am on a journey of understanding the power of letting go of that which no longer serves me.

What made you want to add ‘author’ to your list of achievements?
I have always wanted to write a book. I have loved reading from an early age and finally decided that I would write a book for my 60th birthday for myself and future generations. Call it a legacy piece if you will.

Tell us about your debut book Don’t Let Them Stop You … It’s Personal!
This book is about how as individuals we find our personal freedom whilst navigating the complex relationships with the people in our lives and how we can manage them in order to become our authentic selves. It is written to those who come from a diverse background who may have faced challenges with culture-bound approaches to every day life or who may be stuck in unhealthy relationships with friends, family or significant others.

How much do you feel your experiences as a Child Development specialist have shaped your views compared to the influence of your upbringing as a black child?
I have worked in Health and Social Care for over 25 years. I have learned that the system in the UK still has some way to go in understanding the journey of acculturation and how children are impacted by this in their life experiences. My book helps to address some of those experiences we had as children by exploring where we are now and how we are functioning as adults. I believe in order to understand adults we also need to understand children. As a child growing up our culture dictated that “children should be seen and not heard”, we now live in a time that identifies that children should be both seen and heard. The outcomes for our future generations will probably look quite different to ours.

Highs, lows, solutions …
I thoroughly enjoyed the process of writing and the main challenge was creating a structure where I could ensure that I completed the book based on my deadline (which was my 61st birthday). I decided to allocate two evenings per week for two hours of dedicated writing. I was elated when the final draft was completed three months before my deadline. As I follow the concept of being a “strengths-based” individual, I did not put myself through the challenges that I could get assistance with e.g. editing or proofreading. In other words, I try to avoid spending time on things I am not good at.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU …

What are you working on right now? I am writing my second book which is quite different to the last one but hopefully as interesting to the right audience.

What are you watching? The Apprentice and Dragon’s Den. As a small business owner, I am fascinated by these types of programmes and find them fun entertainment. I can also get some useful tips from them.

What are you reading? I am currently reading two books. One is Worthy: How to Believe You Are Enough and Transform … by Jamie Kern Lima who is a female billionaire and the other is The Price of Money: How to Prosper in a Financial World … by Rob Dix. I am a believer in lifelong learning. I don’t think we can ever say “I know it all“.

What are you listening to? I use the app Headway regularly to hear summaries of books. I love music and will go to places where they play the genre I like.

Last thing you saw on stage? Hamilton the musical last year. I was very familiar with the soundtrack and it was great to go to the live performance. I go to the theatre three or four times a year.

Whose footsteps are you following in? No one in particular. I prefer to follow principles rather than people. Everyone has their own challenges no matter how great they appear to us, however a principle either works or it doesn’t.

What’s next? To create a podcast. I think it is a great positive way of sharing information and helping people. I already have some interesting people lined up.

Where can we find you? I can be reached on LinkedIn Angela R Morris MSc.

Where can we read Don’t Let Them Fool You … It’s Personal!? My book is out on Amazon in paperback and Kindle (Amazon Prime customers get a discount too!) it is also available in paperback on many other online book platforms.

Jordan Bolger is an English actor best known for playing Isaiah Jesus for four seasons in the highly acclaimed TV series, Peaky Blinders.

Jordan’s latest role is in the new BBC drama This Town, he plays Gregory Williams, a British soldier serving in Northern Ireland at the height of The Troubles.

This Town follows a band’s formation against a backdrop of burgeoning social tensions and unrest in the 80s. It’s Knight’s latest creation following his juggernaut hits with Peaky Blinders and SAS Rogue Heroes, so expect a high-octane thriller with the undercurrent of a gritty family drama.

We spoke to Jordan about his career so far …

Please introduce yourself …

My name is Jordan Bolger, I’m 29 and currently working as an actor.

Describe your life right now in a word or a sentence …

Curation.

You decided to become an actor when and why?

I don’t think I ever made a conscious decision to be an actor, when I was around 14 I realised that a life/career in the creative/performance side of things was way more appealing to me than a job at a desk. From there, it was more about following opportunities that pushed me in that direction and stimulated that part of me. My first professional acting job was Peaky Blinders when I was 19.

Telling the people most significant to you that you were going to be an actor was like …?

It was really an evolving journey that no one could predict. They had to trust I knew the right next steps for myself. Being the first person in my family to go into the arts, there wasn’t anyone to guide me but I had a mother who believed in me and supported me in any way she could!

It seems like you’ve popped up out of nowhere. We know that for actors this is never the case, there’s always a back CV of countless small roles and unsung scenes. What was the moment for you that the industry/people really started taking notice of your talent?

I’m not sure that there’s been a gear change moment in the way the industry has responded to me and my work other than my debut in Peaky Blinders, being a new face in a fairly new show. Myself and my team have always approached my career like chess, aiming for consistency, quality and taking steps at the right time. So, while there’s buzz after projects of course my position in the industry has always felt like a pretty steady progression.

Can we talk about how impactful Peaky Blinders was to you and what it was like being a part of such an iconic series … AND (in my opinion) being a believable part of that world … considering you were one of the very few characters of colour …

Yeah, Peaky Blinders was like my drama school to a degree, being part of a cast full of unbelievably talented, seasoned actors helped me (I think) bypass some wrong turns, in that it felt like I had so many moments to hear about their journeys and learnings … so I listened and paid attention.

Okay so now This Town, who do you play, what’s their position in the World of This Town and what’s your character’s ultimate goal?

I play Gregory Williams, older brother, and partial wild card whose goal, I think, is to stop having to fight the world and find some harmony in life for himself and his loved ones.

Where does this series and role find you on your career journey?

It’s a very full circle moment being 10 years from my first job which was also written by the same writer as This Town, Steven Knight. And the progress I’ve made in my career next to the position of this character Gregory and the content I get to play with … I think I’m right where I’m supposed to be.

Any highs, lows and solutions you had to deal with whilst filming This Town …

So many highs, lows and a broken foot as with most projects … maybe not the broken foot but … I think when you have chosen a project because you are passionate about the right bits (character, writing, general message) it makes it a lot easier, or maybe more determined to persist and bring your A game even when you find yourself in a hole of self-doubt and exhaustion.

It’s a jam-packed cast, who did you lean on most to get through filming?

I can’t say much without giving any spoilers but my character is a bit of a lone wolf. So while, personally, I forged beautiful relationships with my cast mates, a lot of my prep and shooting time felt pretty isolated. Myself and Nicholas Pinnock became very close and actually went straight on to a feature film together called Heavy Weight, a boxing movie looking at the 80 or so minutes before my character’s (Derek) biggest fight of his life.

Without spoilers, what’s your favourite moment in This Town?

Episode 3 … ”Welcome Home Virgil”

GETTING TO KNOW YOU …

If not this, then what?

Maybe a gym instructor, but honestly all I know is that if I hadn’t left Coventry and ended up on this journey my life would have been very different

What are you watching right now?

Three Body Problem

What are you reading right now?

The Tools Stutz

The last thing you saw on stage?

For black boys who have considered suicide…

What’s on your bucket list?

Japan

Where’s your happy place?

Jamaica

Celebrate someone else …

‘Minor Formula’ a clothing brand from Birmingham started by my brothers from young days. Clean hearts, Cold clothes.

Celebrate yourself …

I struggle to do that as many others do… but I’m well on my way to where I know I can get to.

Whose footsteps are you following in?

No one springs to mind to say I’m following in their footsteps, but I would like to acknowledge that without other actors and artists of colour achieving what they have and fighting for what they have in the years before me … this wouldn’t be possible or the journey and result could have been very different.

What’s Next?

Something unpredictable, I’m sure.

Where can we find you?

Instagram and most other platforms – Caramaka

When and where can we watch This Town?

Easter Sunday BBC1 @9pm and BBC iPlayer with the whole series from Bank Holiday Monday

Rachel John stars in The Big Life, a musical that revisits the stories of the Windrush generation in 1950s London.

Reflecting on the journey from being an audience member 20 years ago to now portraying Zulieka, Rachel discusses the importance of the play’s revival, its message of love and resilience, and the personal significance of participating in a narrative that mirrors the cultural heritage and struggles of Caribbean immigrants …

Please introduce yourself …`
My name is Rachel John and I am an Actress.

Describe your life right now in a word or a sentence …
My life is blessed.

You discovered you could sing and act when?
I grew up singing at church, from a very early age and I took part in Sunday School plays and this is when I realised that I could sing and act.

Telling your nearest and dearest that you were going to be a performer was like?
Very easy as they always knew that I could sing.  They encouraged me to pursue this and have been to see every show I have been in.

Growing up in Walthamstow and wanting a career in the arts … was your environment an inspiration or a hindrance and how did you utilise it either way?
The environment was an inspiration because I was so active in church that it built up my skills. Free access to music, drama and instruments at church meant that I could grow.

The first production that challenged your decision to be a performer?
The Lion King was my first West End job. I was a swing and cover Shenzi, and it was a challenge. There were days when I felt overwhelmed, but I had a supportive cast and I kept going. I was glad that it was hard because once I settled in it was joyous.

The first production that solidified that you were on the right career path?
The Lion King at The Lyceum confirmed that I loved doing this and wanted to pursue this career. 

What is The Big Life about from your perspective?
The show looks at the lives of Caribbean men and women who travel to the UK when they are invited by the British Government, to help rebuild the country. They arrive with optimism and anticipation for the lives they can create. The men meet on the boat and decide to make a pact to focus on their dreams and avoid all vices for 3 years in order to succeed. However, when they encounter 4 women, it challenges their strength to keep the pact. The action is overseen and commented on by the wonderful actress and writer Tameka Empson and the audience is included in the commentary. This show is about getting a perspective of the Windrush generation and all that they encountered. This show means so much to me because my Mum came here in the 70s and served the NHS for just under 40 years. I want to honour her and all those West Indians who helped to build this country.

And … Zuleika your character – what are her hopes, dreams, goals and position in this musical?
Zulieka Mildred Edwards had huge dreams when she first arrived in the UK, but she is divorced, struggling to run her B&B and she longs to return to Trinidad to see her sick father but she cannot afford it. She dreams of being reunited with her father, being free of this financial burden and enjoying life. She is not looking for love, but she is very happy to find ‘sisters’ with her lodgers. 

How did you get to know Zulieka and understand how to portray her?
She is based on my Grandma, Mum and Aunts. I gave her the middle name ‘Mildred’ after my Grandma who passed away last July and ‘Edwards’ is the surname of my Great Grandma. I know so many women who have shaped my portrayal of Zulieka. I am familiar with her faith, fortitude and resilience. As soon as I read the script, I knew her and could not wait to embody her. 

You’ve worked on so many significant productions what’s special/different about The Big Life …?
This is the first time in my almost 20-year career that I have been Trinidadian and have been able to honour and display my heritage and culture. Being able to tap into our heritage is what makes it one of the most special productions I have been part of and a genuine honour.

Speaking of your impressive back career – Hamilton, We Will Rock You, Sister Act, Memphis, The Bodyguard and The Girl from The North Country – are you satisfied with your career trajectory – I can’t imagine it’s been easy … but … 
I am so satisfied and blessed. It may sound like a cliché, but I believe that every job has helped me grow, develop and meet amazing people. There are lots of things that I still want to do, but when I look back I still pinch myself. I am looking forward to the projects that await me.

Highs, lows, solutions …
Like every other production I have done, you wish for a little more time, but I think this is about pre-show nerves and anticipation. I really wanted the accent to be rich and authentic, so I had to get over this obstacle by trusting that it would flow and I would not let my family or Trinidad down.

Without spoilers what’s a scene you’re most proud of?
Although it is extremely small, I love when all eight of us are on stage together. These actors are my family and when we are all together there is bound to be a lot of laughs.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU

If not this, then what?
A teacher. Voice studies and Vocal tutoring.

What’s made you Sad, Mad, Glad this week?
I am glad that I can spend time with my family.

What are you watching right now?
I am watching The Chosen on Netflix. It is incredible.

What are you reading right now?
I am reading Windrush Child by Benjamin Zephaniah

What are you listening to right now? 
I am listening to a lot of Calypso and Soca at the moment like, Lord Kitchener, The Mighty Sparrow, Scrunter and Baron. 

The last thing you saw on stage? 
The Little Big Things.

What’s on your bucket list? 
See the Northern Lights.

Where’s your happy place?
Church – specifically singing with a congregation. 

Celebrate someone else …
My whole cast – I need to celebrate them.

Celebrate yourself …
I am very happy about a voice-over job that has been released on Netflix. It is called Dee & Friends and I voice the character of Miss Emerald. Also, I made my screen debut last year appearing in The Marvels with a small singing role. I am very grateful.

Whose footsteps are you following in?
My Mum – she is amazing 

What’s Next? 
A holiday!

Where can we find you? 
I am on all socials as @1RachelJohn (Instagram, X, Facebook, YouTube).

Where can we see find your latest work?
You can hear my debut album From My Lips To God’s Ear on Spotify and iTunes

The Big Life: The Ska Musical runs until Saturday 30th March @ Theatre Royal Stratford East

Njambi McGrath, is a multi-faceted Kenyan born writer-comedian who has achieved critical acclaim for her sharp wit on BBC Radio 4 and electrifying performances at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Now, she unveils her debut novel ‘Rinsing Mũkami’s Soul,’ a poignant tale set against Kenya’s backdrop. Through the eyes of Mũkami, McGrath explores themes of resilience and identity, inviting readers on a journey filled with laughter, tears, and profound introspection …

Please introduce yourself …
Njambi McGrath is a stand-up comedian, author and political commentator.

Describe your life right now in a word or a sentence …
I am doing everything I love. 

You discovered you were funny when?
I didn’t know I could be a comedian until someone suggested it.

Telling your parents you were going to be a comedienne was like …?
My parents didn’t understand it. They had no concept of what it was so they were puzzled.

Where the UK and Kenya collide – growing up in Kenya and evolving in the UK how has that shaped your perspective?
Kenya and the UK has a shared history. Britain colonised Kenya and the effects of that was my childhood. We were forced to speak English and punished if you didn’t, so I spoke English from a young age. Our curriculum was British, and our history and literature was all British. My evolution living in Britain has been in the last few years about discovering my culture and identity.

After a successful comedic career, why was now the time to write a book?
I had to write my first book, a memoir Through The Leopard’s Gaze. This was I guess to exorcise my demons of a traumatic childhood. Through that process, I learnt I could write and I felt I had stories to share of life in Kenya.

We have the synopsis, but what is Rinsing Mũkami’s Soul about from your perspective?
It’s about a young girl Mũkami, a conscientious student with big ambitions. Living in a compound in dysfunctional post-colonial Kenya, a country is still finding itself. She has an unfortunate meeting with a bad boy who turns her world upside down. She’s now expelled from two schools and is in search of a safe abortion in a country grappling with Victorian laws that forbids abortion. This is all against a backdrop of a community under threat. Land stolen of the people by British settlers was never returned but sold off to politicians and their cronies or to multinationals so few feel the benefits of independence. Communities like where Mũkami lives are under threat and always a looming homelessness. 
 
Which came first, the character or the plot?
Actually, this book is a spin-off. During lockdown down, I wrote a yet to be published book about a dysfunctional compound called the Ministry of Works. Each of the characters are distinctive and Mũkami’s spoke to me with an urgency I couldn’t ignore, and so the book was born. I felt she deserved her own story. Her story is familiar, afflicting many girls in Kenya. Growing up, I heard of countless girls who had died or permanently injured by unsafe abortions so it felt right to have Mũkami go through this.

The book tackles potential rape, abortion consideration, prostitution – quite intense themes is this a ‘serious’ book or do you weave your comedy through the narrative?
Even in the grimmest scenarios, there’s humour to be found. The book deals with serious themes but there are quite a few laugh out loud moments. Mũkami has a way of seeing the world and just because something bad is happening doesn’t take away humorous scenarios. The comedy in the book is not intended. It just presents itself and I go with it.

Highs, lows, solutions …
Writing is a big financial and time commitment. It requires self belief that someone will want to read the book and even better, publish it. One needs to have tunnel vision and not allow negativity or self-doubt to derail the whole project. The highest moment in this journey was when I walked out of my publisher’s office with a two book deal!

Without spoilers what’s your favourite moment in Rinsing Mũkami’s Soul?
When Mũkami decides to take revenge I’d say is a great part. It’s difficult to choose which part I’m most proud of but I guess it was when I realised that the book came to a natural end and the loose ends were tied up.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU

If not this, then what?
A singer. I love singing and my dream was to sing. There’s just one problem with that and that’s my voice. I can’t sing.

What’s made you Sad, Mad, Glad this week?
Sad and Mad, the news of innocent people suffering for ideological reasons or capitalist ideals. Glad I am writing this sat by the pool in Dubai.

What are you watching right now?
Grizelda on Netflix.

What are you reading right now?
Yellowface by R.F. Kuang.

The last thing you saw on stage? 
Belly dancers and fire eaters.

What’s on your bucket list? 
Visit Namibia and see the Milky Way.

Where’s your happy place?
In amazing gardens in hot places.

Celebrate someone else …
Sinead O’Connor. I never appreciated just powerful she was in advocating for those who were abused or oppressed.

Celebrate yourself …
At 13 years, I was the victim of a violent attack which left me for dead. I walked all night to flee from my tormentor; my father. My life was tough and I worked hard to get to a place where I am comfortable and living as a comedian and author.

Whose footsteps are you following in?
Every journey is unique so I guess it’s default to have just one person. I revere people who have the courage to speak up against oppression or exploitation.

What’s Next? 
Working on my next book and writing a new comedy hour to take to the fringe.

Where can we find you? 
TikTok/Facebook – Njambi McGrath Comedy. X and Instagram – Njambi McGrath.

Where can find your latest work?
You can see my solo show live at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe. Watch my past comedy specials on Next Up. 
Listen to my BBC Radio Series Becoming Njambi here, and Black Black here. Read my books Through The Leopard’s Gaze at Jacaranda Books and Rinsing Mũkami’s Soul also at Jacaranda Books.
 
 

Ann Akinjirin stars in an adaption of one of the country’s most beloved children’s books …

Ann Akinjirin has previously appeared alongside Oscar Isaac in Marvel’s action-packed Moon Knight series, playing Detective ‘Bobbi Kennedy’, and in Michaela Coel critically acclaimed I May Destroy You. As part of her work curating more inclusive shows, she was movement director at Deafinitely Theatre and a writer-director at NYT.

In her latest role Ann stars as Aunt Fanny is the BBC’s newest adaptation of Enid Blyton’s The Famous Five. We spoke to Ann about her role.

Please introduce yourself …

Hi everyone! I’m Ann Akinjirin.

Describe your life right now in a word or one sentence …

Anchored and at peace.

What was the that started you on this particular career path? …

I had a friend in my first year of secondary school Laura (and I shamefully can’t remember her surname). We auditioned for the school play and afterwards she asked me if I’d heard of Sylvia Young Drama School as she went on Saturdays. Her mum took us to my first ever class and that truly set me on my path.

You play the character Fanny in ‘The Famous Five’. How did the role come about?

It came about through the brilliant Dan Hubbard’s casting office. They did an incredible job with the casting of this show. When I finished reading the script, it was an easy yes for me.

All three episodes are brand new stories, how close to the original stories are the characters and in what ways did you make the characters your own?

Aside from the fact that Aunt Fanny remains Quentin’s wife and George’s mum, we haven’t stayed true to her original iteration, which was great for me. I was given the freedom, in collaboration with the creative team, to make her entirely my own. She’s a strong, intelligent, fiercely protective woman, who is also a lot of fun and that was a joy to play. I also found a lot of her traits through the costumes, working with Ros the designer was great. I found that I stood and walked slightly differently as Fanny, due to the types of tops she wore and the height of her heels.

How has it been working with James Lance who plays your husband Quentin?

James Lance is a great scene partner and now friend. We are the only lead adults on the show and spent the whole summer together and I couldn’t have asked for a better person to work with. I learned a lot from him and laughed even more.

Growing up did you enjoy the classic Enid Blyton novels? Which of the Famous Five would you say you were most like as a child?

When you’re a child growing up or an adult who loves to read, it’s hard to miss Enid Blyton and her stories but I wasn’t an avid reader of The Famous Five Adventures growing up. I would say the character that I was most like as a child is George, so it’s lovely to be playing her mum. 

What is the best part about working with a majority child cast? What has it taught you about yourself?

The best part for me about working with a majority child cast was how much fun and laughter that came with them. Having them on set also gave me the allowance to be as silly as I usually am off set. I know the saying goes “Don’t work with kids or animals” but I missed Diaana, Elliot, Kit and Flora when we weren’t filming together. We were like a little tribe.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU

If not this, then what?

This answer has evolved over the years, but I’d say Stylist/Designer of clothes or interiors

What’s made you Sad, Mad, Glad this week?

I was sad this week when I tuned into the state of the world politically.
I was mad this week when my cat was flexing her teenage angst and she’s only 2 (I love her really!!!)
I have some really amazing people in close proximity to my heart and for that I am forever glad!

What are you watching right now?

I’m OBSESSED with Couples Therapy on BBC iPlayer. But I’m usually watching/rewatching episodes of Great British Sewing Bee.

What are you reading right now?

Harlem Shuffle by Colson Whitehead.

What are you listening to right now?

I’m usually listening to Indie soul or alt hip hop jazz but the last song I played on Spotify was Gold by Unusual Demont.

The last thing you saw on stage?

Clyde’s at the Donmar

What’s on your bucket list?

To learn Yoruba. It’s my mother tongue- I can understand it fluently, but I can’t speak it.

Where’s your happy place?

Anywhere that’s by water.

Celebrate someone else (who do you rate right now?)

Lukas Dhont!!! ‘Close’ was one of the best films that I saw this year.

Celebrate yourself …

I was having a conversation with my therapist recently about the importance of reflecting; seeing how much work I’ve done and how far I’ve come. I’m proud of that!

Whose footsteps are you following in?

All the amazing dark skinned women that came before me and allowed themselves to be seen.

What’s Next?

I’m about to start shooting the co-lead in Joy Gharoro-Akpojotor’s debut feature film Dreamers.

Where can we find you?

@annakinjirin on Instagram

Where can we see The Famous Five?

Episode one is on BBC iPlayer and BBC 1 on NYE. With episodes 2 and 3 following in the spring

Credits for the image here:

Photographer: Tati Galic

Make Up & Hair: Mario Brooksbank

Styling by Ann herself

Baker Mukasa is a musical theatre performer …

He is known for his role in the acclaimed musical Standing At The Sky’s Edge’ and will now star in the Royal Exchange Theatres Brief Encounter as Alec.

Set in a busy railway station, where everyone is simply passing through, Laura and Alec find each other. Falling passionately and wildly in love in a few stolen moments they live and breathe a lifetime of epic emotions, reawakening everything they buried deep inside. Together they find themselves in a bittersweet, hopelessly romantic, elegantly awkward love affair …

Please introduce yourself …

Hi, my name is Baker Mukasa, I am an actor and a singer, born and bred in South London but I am also of Ugandan heritage.

Describe your life right now in a word or one sentence …

Beautifully surprising.

What started you on this particular career path?

This is a career that chooses you, you don’t choose it. As a kid my first love was singing, I always had lots of performance energy and I grew up in a family where if you went to a party you were expected to dance. However, when I was a young kid I didn’t think of acting as a career path it was just something I enjoyed doing. But as I got older I went to a secondary school with amazing performance-based extra-curricular activities and amazingly supportive staff. The more I got involved the more things I did outside of school, like concerts and theatre clubs and the more time I spent doing that the more I realised that I’d be happy to do this as a career because I enjoyed it so much. So, after many clubs and lots of kindness here I am.

Tell us about Brief Encounter and working with director Sarah Frankcom …

It’s brilliant! Sarah is a very generous director who gives you a lot of space to explore, but also has a keen attention to detail. She has managed to bring together a group of ridiculously talented individuals who all have a massive heart and who all have the best interests of the story in mind. There is a feeling of safety when working in her room and that is reflected in the confidence of the work. I’m very grateful to be telling this story, with these people, at this time.

How did you feel when you got the part of Alec?

I was ecstatic when I got the part. I admittedly didn’t know the story very well at the start, however after watching the film and reading the play fell in love with it. The part also came at a time when I was in between jobs, so getting the call whilst I was on a break during a waiting shift really made the day go faster.

GETTING TO KNOW …

What’s your current plan B?

Refer to plan A

What’s made you Sad, Mad, Glad this week?

There are many things that have made me mad and sad this week, there is a lot of suffering in the world right now and it feels like all the people in charge have their political standing at the forefront of all their decisions instead of basic humanity- that makes me very sad and mad.

What made me glad this week, is a glorious bowl of ramen I ate at a restaurant that’s a stones throw away from the theatre!

What are you watching right now?

Modern Family

What are you reading right now?

The Citadel by A.J. Cronin

What are you listening to right now?

Janelle Monae – The Age of Pleasure

The last thing you saw on stage?

Hamilton

What’s on your bucket list?

Many things – to spend a lengthy period of time learning salsa and Spanish in Cuba and to do a concert with an American gospel choir.

Where’s your happy place?

Anywhere that serves a really good flat white.

Celebrate someone else …

Matthew Malone our fantastic MD who is a genius but leads with such love.

Celebrate yourself … (make us proud of you)

I’m proud to be working at the Royal Exchange Theatre. I’m proud to have my first leading role. And I’m proud to have been able to stay joyful even though the world isn’t always.

Whose footsteps are you following in?

My favourite quote is ‘I come as 1 but I stand as 10,000’ so I guess I’m following in the footsteps of all the people who have paved the way for me to get to where I am / my mum!

What’s Next?

I’m doing Standing At The Sky’s Edge next year.

Where can we find you?

Insta @bakertm / X @bakertyson

Where can we see you next?

Baker Mukasa stars in Brief Encounter at the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester, runs from 2 Dec – 13 Jan 2024.

For more information visit the Royal Exchange

BAFTA Breakthrough is celebrating its ten-year anniversary this year … and we speak to some of the UK Breakthroughs …

BAFTA has revealed the 32 creatives from across the UK and US selected for BAFTA Breakthrough 2023 . BAFTA Breakthrough is the arts charity’s flagship talent initiative that provides a springboard to creatives in film, games and TV, Breakthrough participants receive unique professional development support from BAFTA – from coaching and mentoring to networking opportunities with BAFTA’s global membership of key industry figures. 

The programme has supported over 200 people to date across the UK, US and India, which is a testament to its continued success and massive impact. Many alumni have gone on to develop their own feature films, games, and television series, earning significant industry recognition and acclaim, and even securing their own BAFTA wins and nominations.

The 2023 Breakthrough UK jury comprised of leading cross-industry figures led by BAFTA sector committee chairs and members including Ade Rawcliffe, Sara Putt, Emily Stillman, Emma Morgan, and Anisa Sanusi in the UK.

TBB spoke to the following UK based BAFTA Breakthroughs:

TBB Talks To … Raine Allen-Miller | Director 
Breakthrough credit: Debut Film – Rye Lane

“I struggle with anxiety and depression, it’s hard to manage sometimes, especially when things are busy. I do CBT therapy which has helped me a lot, I also don’t use Instagram as much anymore which has honestly been a game changer. I try very hard not to work on the weekends, even though my work is my hobby and my life, I need to have space from it, that has helped me a lot and I think I am a better filmmaker when I do this.“

Read Raine Allen-Miller’s full interview here.

TBB Talks To … Adjani Salmon – Writer / Performer / Exec Producer
Breakthrough Credit: Dreaming Whilst Black

“I became a hyphenate out of necessity. I wanted to become a director. I wrote because I needed scripts to direct. I acted because I couldn’t afford actors to say the lines in my script. I fell in love with the other elements (writing and actors) as I love storytelling and all those roles are storytelling skills.“

Read Adjani Salmon’s full interview here.

TBB Talks To … Cynthia De La Rosa – Hair & Makeup Artist 
Breakthrough Credit: Everyone Else Burns

“I am a Hair and Makeup designer because I think that it is one of the most important forms of storytelling- and one of the most underrated as well. I am a true believer that whatever is going on on the inside of a person/character, projects itself on their outsides. Our craft is often so subtle but often immediately informs the audience about how a character is feeling, how they are living, and what a character’s socioeconomic status is. Not only does our work influence an audience’s perception of a character, but it is an important tool for the actor, and can have a profound effect on how well an actor feels in order to do their role.“

Read Cynthia De La Rosa’s full interview here.

TBB Talks To … Talisha ‘Tee Cee’ Johnson – Writer / Director / Presenter
Breakthrough Credit: Too Autistic For Black

“It definitely feels like marking a milestone in terms of how far along I’ve come in my career. I’m hoping to develop both personally and professionally by soaking up as much information as possible, making the most of opportunities and using this time to network with other industry pro’s in the cohort as well as those associated with BAFTA and the breakthrough initiative.“

Read Talisha ‘Tee Cee’ Johnson’s full interview here.

TBB Talkst To … Funmi Olutoye – Lead Producer
Breakthrough Credit:Black History Makers

“I know the power the media has to shape public opinion and to be “edutainment”. Because of this, it means you have the ability and privilege to really spread light and positivity into the world. It’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly.“

Read Funmi Olutoye’s full interview here.

The full list of this year’s BAFTA Breakthroughs is as follows:
UK Breakthroughs 

• Bella Ramsey (they / them) | Performer – The Last of Us
• Vivian Oparah (she / her) | Performer – Rye Lane
• Raine Allen-Miller (she / her) | Director – Rye Lane
• Charlotte Regan (she / her) | Writer / Director – Scrapper
• Adjani Salmon (he / him) | Writer / Performer / Exec Producer – Dreaming Whilst Black
• Cash Carraway (she / her) | Creator / Writer / Exec Producer – Rain Dogs
• Pete Jackson (he / him) | Writer / Creator – Somewhere Boy
• Rosy McEwen (she / her) | Performer – Blue Jean
• Georgia Oakley (she / her) | Writer / Director – Blue Jean
• Kat Morgan (she / her) | Hair & Makeup Designer – Blue Jean
• Kathryn Ferguson (she / her) | Writer / Director – Nothing Compares
• Talisha ‘Tee Cee’ Johnson (she / her) | Writer / Director / Presenter – Too Autistic For Black
• Funmi Olutoye (she / her) | Lead Producer – Black History Makers
• Ella Glendining (she / her) | Director – Is There Anybody Out There?
• Cynthia de la Rosa (she / her) | Hair & Makeup Artist – Everyone Else Burns
• Holly Reddaway (she / they) | Lead Voice Director – Bandai Namco
• Joel Beardshaw (he / they) | Lead Designer – Desta: The Memories Between
• Michael Anderson (he / him) | Producer – Desta: The Memories Between
• Samantha Béart (she / they) | Performer – The Excavation of Hob’s Barrow
• Kitt (Fiona) Burn (she / her) | 2D Artist / Game Designer – Gibbon: Beyond the Trees

• US Breakthroughs

• Aminah Nieves | Performer -1923
• Jingyi Shao | Writer / Director – Chang Can Dunk
• Cheyenne Morrin | Senior Games Writer – Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
• Sing J Lee | Writer / Director – The Accidental Getaway Driver
• Vuk Lungulov-Klotz | Writer / Director – Mutt
• Shelly Yo | Writer / Director – Smoking Tigers
• Edward Buckles Jr | Documentary Director – Katrina Babies
• Amanda Kim | Documentary Director – Nam June Paik: Moon is the Oldest TV
• Maria Altamirano | Producer – All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt
• Apoorva Charan | Producer – Joyland
• Santiago Gonzalez | Cinematographer – Shortcomings
• Gary Gunn | Composer – A Thousand and One

BAFTA Breakthrough is supported by Netflix. For more information about BAFTA BREAKTHROUGH 2023 go to the BAFTA website here

Funmi Olutoye is a London-based producer, director, writer and multimedia journalist.

In 2012 after studying, she landed one of just four places on ITV News’ traineeship programme where she learned to be a producer.She later worked as a video journalist at local station London Live, before returning as a freelancer for ITV Daytime in 2017 where she now works full-time.

She has worked across ITV Daytime’s main shows, This Morning, Lorraine and Good Morning Britain. Most recently she was one of the producers behind the reboot of The Big Breakfast.

We spoke to Funmi about being part of the BAFTA Breakthrough Cohort 2023 …

Please introduce yourself …

My name is Funmi Olutoye, I’m a producer / director, video journalist, writer and formerly presenter / reporter. I’m from London and my heritage is Nigerian. I’m half Igbo and half Yoruba. Now, I’m the first person from daytime television ever to be named a BAFTA Breakthrough!

What’s been the most significant project of your career to date?

Interestingly, it was an exclusive report that I did when I was working in local news about the sheer amount of illegal skin lightening creams being seized by a local authority, which hadn’t been publicised before. It was significant to me because when you work in local news, you’re a one-woman band. I.e. You find your own stories, you produce them, you self-shoot, you edit the footage of the report yourself and then send it to air. When I did this for this particular scoop that I got through a contact I had, I felt proud of myself. Because it boosted my self-belief that, yes, I can do this. I couldn’t believe that I did it completely by myself. So I thought just imagine when I get to a place with more resources – I’ll be able to tell even more stories and in an even better way.

You’re a producer because … ?

Two reasons:

I know the power the media has to shape public opinion and to be “edutainment”. Because of this, it means you have the ability and privilege to really spread light and positivity into the world. It’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly.

The second reason is that I constantly get to meet the most amazing, usually inaccessible, interesting and varied set of people in the world and tell their stories – it’s an amazing job, that doesn’t feel like a job. It’s a Privilege.

And is everything going to plan …?

I would like to think so! I’m definitely excited for what the next year will bring. I’m hoping becoming a BAFTA Breakthrough will broaden my horizons and open my eyes to sections of the industry I perhaps have never considered.

Why was now the right time to apply / be submitted for BAFTA Breakthrough?

I’ve been in this industry for 14 years so far. I had been working within local television for the first half of my career and then moved into national programming as a freelancer for a number of years. I then went full-time a couple of years ago which opens you up to more opportunities to lead on certain projects or at least have more responsibility in your hands than you would as just a freelancer. So when I had the opportunity to lead on Good Morning Britain’s Black History Month project for 2022, it was the first time I would lead produce on a strand for a major national daytime show like GMB. For me, this level of responsibility so far in my career is a personal breakthrough. I’m honoured that BAFTA thought the same.

What was the first thing you did when you found out you are part of this year’s BAFTA Breakthrough Cohort?

I thanked God and called my Mum! Without the two of them I absolutely would not be where I am today. My faith is important to me and I strongly believe that God is always ordering my steps through life. My Mum brought me up by herself and she has personally sacrificed a lot to get me to where I am. She has always believed in me from day one and supported me in very difficult times in my career and in life generally. This recognition is for her as much as it is for me.

What does it mean to be recognised by BAFTA, and what are you hoping to gain from the experience?

It’s a privilege and an honour on two levels. The first being personally – next year will be 15 years since I’ve been working in the media. It’s good to know that work you’ve created is not going unnoticed by your peers in the wider industry. Also, that BAFTA sees something in me today that is worthy of profiling but also where they see me going in my future. It’s fantastic to know that not only do they want to be a part of that but they’re willing to back me on my future endeavours.

Secondly, it indicates to me that BAFTA recognises the work that daytime television producers do. We work very hard to put out live television shows for the nation every single weekday and throughout the year. And we do this with extraordinary turnaround times without compromising on quality. The long hours and the work we do overnight while the rest of the country is sleeping is tough but it’s worth it to bring the news and entertainment to people’s screens every morning.

Who of your peers would you recommend for next year’s BAFTA Breakthrough cohort?

Joel Duncan – he’s a senior creative producer at ITV who mainly works within the digital space but we’ve both worked at Good Morning Britain together some years back. But this year he brought me on as a producer on a brand new television show he created from scratch called Breaking Through with ZeZe Millz. He’s a very talented man.

Tell us about a challenging moment during your career that you had to dig deep to get through?

It was trying to get into the industry in the first place! I left my post-grad journalism school with all the gumption and ambition in the world. But I soon realised that this industry is all about who you know. I did a million internships just to gain experience, keep busy, make connections. It took me almost two years after journalism school before I got my first break into the industry as an ITV News Trainee. I was told almost 1000 people applied and I was one of four people they chose. When I got the call to say I got it, I X-Factor-contestant cried like a baby. Because I knew, finally, I was in!

What’s next?

I’m open! I’m on secondment to The Lorraine Show at the moment and I go back to Good Morning Britain in February 2024. I’d love to do more side projects and explore more genres within television. Also, I’m keen to do more creative video work within the social media and digital space.

How do we keep up to date with you and your work?

I’m on social media
Twitter / X: @FunmiOlutoye
Instagram: @Funmio
Tik Tok: @Funmio
Snapchat: @Funmio7

What are you reading, watching, listening to right now, and what’s the last thing you saw
on stage?

• I’m watching Squid Game: The Challenge – insanely addictive. Also, the new series of Deal or No Deal – so nostalgic and yet the way they’ve brought it back with a new presenter, it feels refreshed.
• The last thing I saw on stage was the musical The Time Traveller’s Wife. Very good musical. The set design was amazing – so much so I had to message the designer on Instagram just to
  give her her flowers!