Reporter-at-Large:

Thanks for sparing the time. First of all, do you prefer to be called Matt or Matthew?

Matthew Harper:

Either, I’m really not bothered.

R-a-L:

How long have you been involved in amateur theatre?

MH:

I’ve been involved in for 19 years, since I was 11. I've been part of a number of groups, ranging from Gosforth in the Lake District, Bishop Auckland Theatre Society, The Progressive Players in Gateshead and, of course, Castle Players! I've acted, directed, been front of house and also written and published several plays.

R-a-L:

Have you directed before? If so, what? With which companies?

MH:

I've directed a few times in the past. I first directed a production of Mike Leigh's Abigail's Party when I was at Newcastle University. I've also directed several week-long play workshops. After a hiatus, I've returned to write and direct two pantomimes in Bishop Auckland, The Enormous Turnip and The Little Mermaid. Currently I'm finishing a production of The River by Jez Butterworth for the Sedgefield One Act Festival next week and looking forward to directing Whisky Galore with the Castle Players.

R-a-L:

What plays have you performed in? Which was your favourite?

MH:

I've played an eclectic selection of parts. I've been through the pantomime mill, having many different roles. I've also played Mr Mushnik in ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ (involved a lot of makeup!) and been more serious in a production of ‘Pressure’ at the Little Theatre in Gateshead. My favourite part (not to be biased!) has to have been playing Lord Wessex in Castle Players' ‘Shakespeare in Love’, you were all just so lovely - so here I am, back again!

R-a-L:

Was ‘Shakespeare in Love’ your first involvement with Castle Players?

MH:

Yes. I rang up Laurence [Sach] answering an advert in The Teesdale Mercury looking for men to be in ‘The Inn at the Top’. The play had already been cast but I was encouraged to take part in ‘Shakespeare in Love’ in 2025.

R-a-L:

When you are not acting or directing, what is your day job? What are your hobbies / interests?

MH:

In the little spare time I have left, I am a general dentist in West Auckland. Outside of theatre, I'm a keen cyclist and I love to get involved in Kynren (which is still theatre I suppose). I am also an organist and pianist around several local churches.

R-a-L:

Why ‘Whisky Galore’? And why this adaptation?

MH: This script really jumped out at me. It's just such a fun script, nothing too serious with loads of great parts. I absolutely love the multi-role aspect of it and I think it will be perfect for a Winter Tour. This adaptation is fun, different and fast-paced and I think the all female casting creates a fun and diverse opportunity.

R-a-L:

Thank you and good luck with the production.