Plug-In: The Catbox

A comic drama set in South Manchester, The Catbox focuses on members of the Northern Voices Writers Group. These four socially disastrous, slightly damaged people, without realizing it, have only the writers' group and each other to escape the horrors of the real world. The Catbox will be showcased 12th October at Studio Below on Rodney Street, which is run by the local community group, Make it Write Productions. The show is part of the Liverpool Fringe Festival, providing artists and audiences with a unique opportunity to mingle. The festival runs from October 5th to 14th.

Writer Karl Owens and Director Abbey Isabella Fitzhenry are ready to present The Catbox at the Liverpool Fringe Festival. This comic drama, set against the backdrop of the Northern Voices Writers Group, promises a unique blend of comedy and drama, brought to life by Karl's insightful writing and Abbey's directing skills. Karl's journey from acting to writing and stand-up comedy has been a winding path filled with diverse experiences. "I felt more comfortable writing and always gravitated towards it," Karl explains when asked about his transition. His background in Drama and Music at Southport College cemented the foundation, but it was his talent for storytelling that became his calling.

The Catbox showcases Karl's ability to balance comedy and drama. His writing style draws inspiration from a wide range of influences, including "The Day Today" and "The League of Gentlemen," as well as the comic realism of "Early Doors" and "The Detectorists." Karl's observations of people and their quirks provide the raw material for his narratives, where laughter and introspection come together.

Abbey, the director, brings her own expertise to the table. With experience both in acting and directing, she is uniquely positioned to guide the cast and crew in bringing Karl's vision to life. Her directorial skills ensure that the delicate balance between comedy and drama remains intact throughout the production. As Karl delves into the themes that underpin his writing, he believes in letting audiences discover the layers of his storytelling organically. "I try to write in a way that reveals elements of truth and sadness, where comedy naturally seeps through," Karl explains. His characters are inspired by real people he knows, a secret he has kept from them until now.

"The Catbox" marks Karl's debut at the Liverpool Fringe Festival, and his hopes and expectations are high. He envisions this production as a stepping stone to showcase his other written plays. With a confident cast and Abbey's directorial experience, Karl has plans for "The Catbox" and future plays if all goes well on show night. Abbey shares Karl's optimism and is excited about the prospects of the play. She highlights the unique blend of comedy and drama in "The Catbox" as a refreshing take on storytelling. "It's been a pleasure working with Karl and bringing his vision to life," she says. " The cast has fully embraced the characters, and the audience can expect an engaging and emotionally resonant performance," Abbey added:

“My hope is that the audience can visualize all of the characters and appreciate the humor within desperate situations. Whilst there is ugliness in some parts there is also an opportunity for the audience to relate to each character’s choices. Ultimately each individual has a void in their life to fill and this writing group is their answer to that. I hope that by Karl entering the fringe, it is a springboard for more of his work to come into the city. Karl captures realism beautifully'“

In the world of theatre, Karl and Abbey's collaboration shines to the power of storytelling. "The Catbox" promises to be a great night of theatre. The show is part of the Liverpool Fringe Festival, which provides artists and audiences with a unique opportunity to mix. The festival runs from October 5th to 14th. Get your tickets now.

Written by, Meg Kay

Edited by, Christopher Woodward