Playwright and Researcher

Stacey is a playwright, dramaturg, researcher, and drama practitioner based in the East Midlands. She creates collaborative, research-led work that amplifies underrepresented voices, often exploring care, identity, and resilience from working-class and regional female perspectives. Her practice spans theatre, community development and academia, with a focus on ethical storytelling and using drama to spark real-world conversations.

Stacey holds a PhD in Arts, Health and Wellbeing, using playwriting as a research method and is the Learning and Aspirations Manager for Mansfield Cultural Services.

Theatre Director and Co-Creation Specialist

Orla is a working class theatre director, writer and producer. Co-creating specialist for 16 years, Artistic Director for Lit Theatre Company, creating contemporary theatre with communities in the Midlands. Orla’s work is driven by social justice with the aim to connect people with theatre as a tool for change.

Orla has worked with many theatres and theatre companies including Nottingham Playhouse, Curve Leicester, Talking Birds and Belgrave Theatre

Composer, Musician and Sound Designer

Derek is a theatre composer, musician and sound designer based in Coventry who specialises in creating music for unusual situations.

He has worked with London Sinfonietta, the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestre, Claire Cunningham & Caes do Mar and his Symphony of remembering has been performed by Orchestra of the Swan at the iconic Coventry Cathedral.. Derek is Co-Artistic Director of acclaimed theatre company Talking Birds & with his ensemble The Sonoplasts has performed life for BBC Radio 3