Poles Apart 2024

Last year, alongside the most supportive team, I received the opportunity to direct my first ever short; a story that follows a group of outraged elderly knitters after their church hall gets turned into a cabaret bar. Think Burlesque meets Golden Girls, but on a student budget.

Balancing such a comedic juxtaposition with a narrative focused on religion, sexuality and generational differences was not without its challenges- but I am beyond proud of the authentic, empowering story we created.

This was my first time directing on this scale, and going in, I wanted to lead with empathy, patience and enthusiasm. It was always about fostering an environment where we could experiment, learn and have fun as we went. I definitely feel like we fulfilled this, and this project will always hold such a special place in my heart.

I want to say the biggest thank you to the Poles Apart team;

Firstly our cast: Alison Rosa, Evangeline Duncan, Barry Johnson, Amy Lodge and Denise Gibson - we will be forever grateful for your dedication and the energy you brought to set each day!

Thank you to the crew: Ben Craig (Director of Photography); Beth Marsch (Writer); Phoebe Rigby (Editor); Natasha Fieldsend (Producer); Mia Duncan (Production Manager); Emily Fairlie (Production Designer); Freddie Smith (Sound Mixer); Dylan McGuigan (1st AC); Obi Double (Gaffer); Seiya Caro-Langdon (Boom Operator); Sânziana Popescu-Necșești (Spark); Reuben Cope, Sam Rooke and Jack Brown (Runners); Riko Puusepp (Composer) and Jude Brereton (Production Supervisor).

Without your creativity, talent and passion, this story would never have been possible.

As well as our amazing cast of over 40 extras, who took time out of their days to come and help, I want to say a massive thank you to Pole Exercise Society York  for being the strongest (and coolest) people on set by a mile.

Also, we are all so grateful for the kindness shown by everyone at the Crescent Community Venue and the Hungate Reading Cafe in York, for letting us use your locations to bring this story to life.

Finally, a massive thank you to everyone who donated to our fundraiser, and supported this project from the start.