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INTERVIEW WITH ALEXANDER PARKER

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Alex started  Atomicus Entertainment in 2012 when he left university in Birmingham. He stayed in the city to continue producing theatre and utilise the networks he had assembled whilst studying. Following this he moved back to London where he started producing small fringe productions such as Adam Gwon’s Ordinary Days and a new comedy musical Riptide: The Slasher Musical at the Rosemary Branch Theatre. Eventually this led to opportunities to work with other fringe venues such as the Canal Café and the LOST Theatre before co-producing Jerry Springer the Opera. After being awarded the Stage One Bursary last October, he has produced The Fix at the brand new Union Theatre. His current show The Diary of a Teenage Girl, based on the graphic novel and hit film of the same name, opens at Southwark Playhouse on March 1st.

What does Stage One mean to you?
Stage One has given me the freedom to focus on making each project the very best it can be. Whether that’s through providing financial support through the bursary or with the allocation of office space, it has helped to ensure that I can operate efficiently and on the most professional level possible. It’s also given me access to a network of incredible people – both professionally and personally – I have forged strong friendships as well as key business relationships. I would urge any aspiring producers to make Stage One their first port-of-call!

Last show you saw and loved?
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – I’m still amazed by the pool of talent on this production – it’s a lesson in how to assemble an incredible team and how collaboration is the way forward. It also succeeded in making a property that has existed for 20 years feel entirely original! I could talk about this production all day so probably best to stop here…

What do you think, is the best thing about the Theatre Industry?
There is a genuine sense of camaraderie where everyone is happy to support one another as much as they can – everyone understands that when one show succeeds, theatre as an industry succeeds.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Never be afraid to ask for help – you can’t do everything on your own and it’s never a sign of weakness. Acknowledging your flaws can be just as fruitful in the long term as showcasing your strengths. I love working with other people and so the more I heed this advice, the more enjoyable a project is!

To find out how to apply to the Stage One Bursary Scheme, please click HERE.
To book tickets for The Diary of a Teenage Girl, please click HERE.