Our Stories, directed by Mark Womack is an evening of monologues, duologues and small excerpts from plays with additional work from local writers. The performances will take place on the 23rd and 24th November, 2023 at The Arts Bar in Liverpool (Hope Street).

We spoke with Reiss Barber regarding the process to get the all important behind the scenes details.

Reiss told us that inspiration for the evening came from a general feeling of being fed up with the lack of recognition of local artists. He said that ‘Merseyside is bursting with talent’ and that as showcasing talent can become such a rarity, an idea sparked to create their very own platform for this. Not only to showcase the local talent, but to create a close community.

Actors were selected carefully from a casting call asking of a self tape of work. The ideal casting was variety and truth. Reiss believes that acting should exhibit reality, not farce. From this, a very long list became the cast of 8 that will perform this month.

Now for the director in question! The creatives secured Mark Womack for the job, a ‘massive coup’ in Reiss’ eyes due to Womack’s experience in acting and directing. He has faith that he will get the utmost best out of the cast.

Reiss hopes that the audience will enjoy themselves as ultimately, this is the reason we all spectate. In addition to this, audiences should leave feelings inspired and moved.

The creatives have picked the Liverpool Arts Bar as the location for the event (their first choice) as the people that run it are simply creatives, just like us. They disregard the hierarchy of acting names and don’t care how much money is sat in your bank. They offer the best chance at starting out, regardless of budgets. They are a huge support of the local talent, which is why it has been a long standing favourite within Liverpool.

The creatives cannot thank them enough for all they do and reveal the Art’s Bar is the ‘perfect place to network, grab a bevvie and listen to some unreal music’. I cannot agree more.

One industry professional will be in attendance of the performance and is there to chose one outstanding monologue or duologue to be filmed by LAR Films. This exciting opportunity adds something special to the event and ultimately supports giving those with minimum opportunity, the maximum potential.

Grab your tickets for a night of local talent on November 23rd and 24th. I wish everyone the best of luck and to break a leg on the 23rd and 24th of November. Secure your tickets now and enjoy an evening of local talent. After all, we’re all in this boat together and should support our fellow thespians.

Written by, Grace Morrison