Ben plays The Clerk for AfterWords – he joined us after answering an open call.
He was asked to write something about why he wanted to get involved with us and our production of AfterWords and his experience so far.
Hey folks, Ben here.
So last night was opening night. After months of preparation, it’s a real pleasure putting the show in front of a live audience.
My character, the Clerk, is a joy to play. He’s a bit of a jobsworth, but with a softer side. Think Saint Peter waiting at the pearly gates, only more annoying. Lots of delightful lines from Michael, the writer. I also get to eat on stage, and even wheel out my (rusty) Tom Jones impression.
The audience seemed very receptive, and gave lots of positive feedback. In particular, people really love the concept of the show, the nature of the afterlife and what it suggests about our lives (again, kudos to the writer).
At this point, there’s a wonderful sense of reassurance. As show week approaches, everyone has moments of doubt, but these are fast fading. We’ve put it on stage, we know it works, and we know people like it. Hope you do too, if you make it down!