60 Seconds With… the Artistic Director of ‘ver·i·si·mil·i·tude’

Briefly introduce yourself/your company…
Direct Theatre Collective is a bold, brave ensemble of artists using art as a device to evoke and provoke conversation. Spearheaded by Artistic Director Jill Raymond, the company was founded in 2018 and has won several awards including the Artistic Innovation Award (City of Richmond). They are best known for their seminal work HYSTERIA, which has since been the subject of the documentary film ‘Where Women Gather’ released in 2022.

What is it that makes your work/company unique
Drawing on personal experience and the power of devised theatre, Direct Theatre Collective’s mission is to explore complex socio-political ideas through the lens of performance. They are committed to producing original new work through devising and collaborative exploration; recognizing art as a vehicle for social and societal change; representing marginalized communities and using theatre as a device to evoke and provoke.

What kind of experience do you hope audiences will have during your show?
Expect a bit of a rollercoaster. There will likely be laughs, and maybe some tears, definately some gut punches. Hopefully a sense of motivation to reconnect with the world around them – you know – the real-real world.

Without spoilers, tell us what you think audiences will remember most about your show?
The genuine fear we should feel about the direction that we are headed with technology, segregation, and the danger of absolute truths.

What do you think is the best thing about the Fringe?
Apart from it being the most wonderful time of the year? Hopping between shows, meeting artists and new friends in the fringe bar, the constant weather changes of September meaning you never know *quite* what is appropriate attire, the CABARET OF BULLSHIT (unmissable).

What is the most important thing you hope audiences will take away from your show?
That they should hug each other.