These recent times have been some of the hardest challenges we've faced and as a community, it hit us pretty hard. However during these difficult times, here at Pocket Size Theatre, we wanted to spread a little positivity and share some peoples experiences because we are all in this together. Each day we'll be speaking to our friends in the industry to share their experiences with you all so take a read and see how people are getting through these hard times.
Let's stick together, share the love and get through this as a community!
*Some information mentioned in this article may be out of date due to the progress of the current situation. Please keep that in mind when reading*
Maisey Bawden's credits include Olya in Dr Zhivago (UK Premier); Dido Elizabeth Belle in The Mansfield Case (Kenwood House); June Perryman in An Officer and a Gentleman (UK Tour); Woman 1 in 35MM (The Other Palace); Mahi in Honeymoon in Vegas (London Palladium); Miss Jones in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (Wilton's Music Hall); Adrianna in The Tempest (Stafford Gatehouse Theatre); Fate in 27 (The Cockpit); Cyrstal in Little Shop of Horrors (Clwyd Theatr Cymru) and Nun in The Sound of Music Live (ITV).
On Monday 16th March 2020, The Society of London Theatre announced the closure of all Theatres in London. This followed suit with regional venues. Where were you when you found out and what was your initial reaction?
I was actually out getting party supplies for my Daughters 1st Birthday party (which never happened!) I remember hearing from all my friends who had just been sent home from work. What feels like a million years ago now!
Can you tell us anything productive you’ve been doing?
I’ve been dabbling in a bit of writing which I have really enjoyed. Done a lot of cooking and DIY and I’ve also started running which I’m a bit proud of myself for because I always hated it but we live right by the sea so it’s nice to run along the seafront and clear my head sometimes. I think it’s really important that you take a moment to breathe.
Whenever you log onto social media there is so much negativity circulating. How have you been trying to keep a positive mental attitude during these times?
I basically try to keep the things I post as lighthearted as possible. Obviously it’s important to offer love and support to people who are going through a hard time but I really think laughter is medicine so I try to send my mates memes and stupid videos daily. Oh, and selfies!
With the Arts temporarily shut down, how would you advise people to continue to support the Arts industries?
I’d say support your friends, take their zoom classes, donate to theatres offering online streaming of their shows. It’s massively important. And just be a voice for us, for all of us because so many of us aren’t supported by the Government at the moment. It’s important that we speak up.
Have you discovered anything that you’d like to recommend to our viewers?
The mono box is an amazing resource. It’s a library of monologues recorded by well known Actors. I’ve listened to every single one! I love it! Also every Thursday The National Theatre are streaming on YouTube, my favourites so far have been Frankenstein and The Barber Shop Chronicles. It’s great to catch things that I’ve missed. And obviously I’ve been watching all the TV!
In these times of Social Distancing and isolation, how have you been trying to connect with Friends and Family? Any fun quizzes or games?!
We do a quiz every Friday for our Agents and some people also with the Agency. It’s great fun. I’m happy to host as my general knowledge is not the best!
And finally, looking to the future, what are you most looking forward to when all of this is over?
Cannot wait to see so many friends and family. I am literally never going to let them escape me!
We'd like to thank Maisey and all other performers who have given up their time to contribute to this feature.
Other useful links for anyone needing further help:
Acting For Others - Charity that provides financial & emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need.
Help Musicians - An independent Charity that helps all forms of Musicians through times of need.
Industry Minds - Mental Health Support for the creative arts.
Theatre Helpline - a free, independent and confidential phone and email service that provides support to people working in the theatre industry.
