EXCLUSIVE: INTERVIEW WITH STUDENT DIRECTORS

Tammy and Zarah are the writers and directors of their original show, 'Seven Minutes and a Dolphin', which premiered in the PAC last term on Thursday 6th October. We interviewed them about the process.

What made you want to write this play?

Zarah saw an advert for a playwriting competition at Hampstead Theatre and asked me in a random philosophy lesson if I wanted to write a play with her. I messaged her a few weeks later asking if she was still up for it, we called to brainstorm and started writing. We were immediately on the same wavelength and just had so much fun writing together. And the rest, as they say, is history. -

Tammy

What was it like taking the show from paper to the PAC?

As we started writing we realised that it would be amazing to perform the play at school. It would be something new and different: a comedy written and directed by students for students. So we took the idea to Miss May and, after much planning and deliberation, we were able to secure the PAC for a one-night wonder. - Zarah

Any top tips for working well as a creative duo?

Coffee dates! We spent hours in Costa writing and discussing. The name was actually devised on a napkin in West Hampstead Costa. But, apart from coffee, the best thing is to be each other’s motivation. When you know each other well enough that you can tell when it's all getting a bit too much, and a great thing about co-directing is that there's always someone to have your back if you need a break, a hug, or just some chocolate. -

Zarah

Finally, what was the best thing about Seven Minutes for you?

The cast. No question. Our cast and crew poured their hearts and souls into this production to make our dream come true. We couldn't have asked for a more supported, dedicated and loving group of people to spend three weeks rehearsing, laughing, crying, singing and dancing with to put this show on. It was an incredible journey, resulting in an unforgettable show and an even better reaction from the audience. We learned so much and made amazing friends throughout the process and are so grateful to everyone involved, staff and fellow students who made this show possible. - Tammy