We sat down for an exclusive interview with Arran Kirby, part of the community cast taking part in National Theatre’s Public Record. Featuring music from The Futureheads’ Ross Millard, an incredible line up of local legends from Sunderland’s music scene, professional dancers and community groups, this explosive new show from Public Acts brings together a cast of over a hundred people of all ages to lift the roof off The Fire Station with the sound of Sunderland.
Arran Kirby, 23, recent graduate, lives in Sunderland, member of Atlas Theatre Company CIC.
- If you could describe the sound of Sunderland in three words, what would they be?
Its difficult to find just three words, but the first ones that come to my mind are:
Banter, Merriment, and of course, Seagulls.
2. What’s been your favorite moment in rehearsals so far – any unexpected surprises or funny mishaps?
Probably when we first rehearsed the scene After Dark. None of us knew what was going to happen going into it, but immediately the vibe in the room was electric. I could feel the joy radiating from everyone else I was dancing with, which in turn made me go even more all out. I also loved getting to meet Harry, our oldest company member, and hearing him sing Pure Imagination, that felt really magical.
3. If you could add one dream song to the show’s playlist, what would it be and why?
I would love to add Leading Away by The Outtakes. They’re a really awesome local New Wave band who’ve played in a few local venues over the last few years like Indie, and given how much of a light this show shines on local artists, it would have been awesome to see them make an appearance.
4. Imagine you’re making your own record about your life – what’s the title and the first track?
I suppose I’d have to call it A Series of Severe Mishaps, that about sums up my life! As for the first track, the first song that comes to my mind is Dizzy by Tommy Roe. One of my earliest memories is asking my dad to play it, plus I feel like my head’s all over the place in general!
5. If you could perform on stage with any music legend, past or present, who would it be and what song would you sing together?
Now, that’s a tough one, but I’d probably have to go for Hayley Williams from Paramore. I’ve been to one of her concerts before, and her energy and stage presence is phenomenal!