Today we are speaking with Olivia Crawford, a current student on the Creative Producing, MA course about producing Concha.
Tell us more about the show
Concha is a semi-autobiographical show that explores the queer experience and all of the glorious and messy things that comes with it.
When can we see it?
Concha will be showing at Brixton House from 26-29 April!
Tell us more!
In this collection of monologues, we find out about Concha, who has just discovered they’ve contracted an STD after doing something they shouldn’t – which takes them on a journey of past and current relationships, friends, love, family, anal sex and the importance of the use of condoms.
With the use of monologues, voiceovers, music, lip-syncs and video projection, we’re taken into Concha’s world as they try to find their place in the world.
Who are you working with on this production?
There are three of us in the cast and production team. I am currently working with writer/performer Carly Fernandez and director Manisha Sondhi.
What is included in your role as a Producer?
My role as producer has included liaising and negotiating with the venue, taking the lead on funding, managing the production schedule, a lot of marketing, and more. We’re such a small company, so it’s been a little bit of everything!
Producer – Olivia Crawford (Photo Credit Rosy Addison-Dunne)
How did you get involved in this project?
I got involved with this project outside of my course at Central. However, I have been using all of the skills I’ve learnt on my course to go through the process. Additionally, after this run, we are taking the show to the Edinburgh Fringe which will be the essence of my SIP (Sustained Independent Project) project for my MA.
What made you want to get involved?
I am passionate about City Lighthouse’s mission and ultimately believe in this show. I read the script for ‘Concha’ and was blown away - I knew it had to be shared with the world and that’s what we are trying to do, one run at a time.
How did you find out about Central and decide to study with us?
I found Central when searching for UK-based MA programs in producing and stage management. I applied in 2020 and then decided not to come because of the pandemic, re-applying and finally attending this last fall. I decided to come to Central for a variety of reasons, including its location to London, vocational opportunities through placements, and ultimately because of Jessica Bowles, our course leader. I feel I absolutely make the right decision!
What are you planning to do after graduation?
I’m planning to stay in London for a few more years before I embark on some international projects, especially touring (it’s hard to pin me to one place!). I’m really interested in producing musicals that particularly focus on the way music, dance, and production elements transcend to tell a story. ‘Concha’ is outside that focus, but is such an incredible show that I cannot wait to help it get to as many people as possible. I hope to use my experience producing this show (at Brixton House and at the Edinburgh Fringe), as well as my placement experiences, to branch into the international musical theatre/dance industry.
Concha will be showing at Brixton House from 26-29 April. Learn more and book tickets on the Brixton House website.
Learn more about the City Lighthouse Theatre Company and follow them on Twitter @_CityLighthouse and Instagram @citylighthousetheatrecompany
