Jamie Parker is a member of Ardent8, an ensemble of eight young actors selected to participate in the year-long Ardent Theatre Company programme to offer artistic support to recent graduates who have found it difficult to make the leap from the regions to London.
Through various workshops with carefully selected practitioners, the ensemble is able to access opportunities within the industry they have otherwise found inaccessible, but which Ardent Theatre Company believes is no more than an equal opportunity.
Following a workshop from which a new play is developed specifically for the ensemble, the programme culminates in a two-week residency in London when the company rehearse and perform the word première of Sacrifice.
Sacrifice is at Soho Theatre 31st July – 4th August 2018.
How did you get involved with Ardent8?
I was asked to join and it was a no brainer! I knew about the company prior, so that made it even more exciting!
What kind of experiences have you had as part of Ardent8?
Incredible ones! I’ve been able to share this experience with like-minded people and meet people from the industry, which has been amazing and very helpful! It’s hard to get those opportunities when you’re not in London.
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Sacrifice is the culmination of the programme, what can you tell us about it?
Sacrifice focuses a light on the struggles of out of work actors who have recently graduated. It gives the audience a bit of insight into some of our worlds and is a great piece for actors to relate to.
How have you found the rehearsal process so far?
So fun! It’s been very intense but it’s been easier as I’ve been working with focused and driven people.
Has your year together made the rehearsals easier?
Yes! I came in to the group as a complete newbie and had never met any of the group, so working together in the workshops beforehand definitely made it easier when it came to rehearsing Sacrifice.
What opportunities has Ardent8 given you that you wouldn’t have had otherwise?
I’ve been able to come up to London often and meet industry professionals that I never would have been able to before! I have also been given the opportunity to do my first ever professional show in London!
What advice would you give to other recent graduates based outside of London?
Stay motivated! Keep working hard and stay driven because it will pay off sooner or later!
