Friday, 13 February, 2015

INTERVIEW WITH ROS POVEY

Ros has previously been supported by the Stage One Bursary for New Producers and was awarded the Start Up Fund to co-produce the transfer of Love Story the Musical (Duchess Theatre, 2011 Olivier nomination Best New Musical). Currently she is producing the Hampstead Theatre West End transfer of Di and Viv and Rose.

At the moment you are…
..involved in the transfer of Amelia Bullmore’s wonderful Di and Viv and Rose which is currently at the Vaudeville. We have a terrific cast, great reviews and the audiences are loving it - but it’s tough selling a new play in the West End so fingers crossed we can make it.  I’m also helping develop a play based on a classic American film, setting up a UK tour for a show I co-produced last year and working with a very experienced producer (and Stage One mentor) on a brand new musical for next year.

What does Stage One mean to you?
Through the New Producers Workshop, Bursary scheme, Start up funding, industry mentoring, legal advice and countless networking drinks, Stage One has been a consistent source of guidance, support and investment in my career as a producer. Quite simply it wouldn’t have happened without them and in particular Katie Harper. I’m sure Louise and Sophie will be up to the challenge too!

Last show you saw and loved?
Di and Viv and Rose of course!  I also just saw and adored City of Angels at the Donmar.  With Made in Dagenham, Women on the Verge and soon Gypsy, I’m loving that we have a mini glut of shows with such fabulous roles for women - long may it last!

Highlight of 2014?
Finally setting up Ros Povey Productions!  After several years working for other commercial producers, I was encouraged by another Stage One Alumni to ask a few close investors to back me in return for shares in the company, and after taking legal advice, I decided to raise funds through the SEIS scheme which allows generous tax reliefs. It’s the toughest thing I’ve ever done and with having shareholders you have to think about the level of risk in every decision you take, but I’m pleased I took the plunge as I get to do what I love. Fear of failing is not an excuse.

What's the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
I’ve had many pieces of advice over the years, but the ones that stand out are: Marry wisely; Try not to be the most experienced person in the room; and, never produce a show you couldn’t watch more than once!

For more information on Di and Viv and Rose click here
For more information on Ros Povey Productions click here
 

 


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