Sparks
by Simon Longman
directed by Julia Stubbs
produced by Upper Hand Theatre
It’s no surprise that it’s raining in the Midlands. But the familiar woman on the doorstep holding a fish is!
Sarah hasn’t seen her sister Jess for twelve years, but now she’s here with a rucksack on her back and an apology.
Over the course of one night, the bonds of family are tested as they attempt to reconnect, share wild stories and search for forgiveness.
Upper Hand Theatre returns to the Jack Studio with Sparks by Simon Longman, an off-beat story of sisterhood and finding your place in the world.
Upper Hand Theatre Company is a female-led theatre company providing opportunities for women and non-binary people in the arts. We’re aware of the lack of opportunities in this industry for these under-represented groups – it’s time to redress the balance.
Post-show Q & As. We held post-show discussions following the Friday performances of Sparks.
Women in Theatre: Finding Creative Freedom. Friday 5th July.
Sparks’ actors and co-producers Emma Riches & Lisa Minichiello were joined by director Julia Stubbs and special guests Sarah Lawrie and Jenny Eastop. They discussed the growing need for creatives to become skilled in multiple disciplines like producing/directing/acting/dramaturgy to find success in the industry. Being a multi-hyphenate theatre-maker certainly comes with its challenges but also affords you to find more creative freedom.
Upper Hand Theatre: Creating a Theatre Company. Friday 12th July.
After the show join us, as director Julia Stubbs chaired the discussion with Sparks co-stars/producers Emma Riches and Lisa Minichiello. They were joined by special guest Laura Fitzpatrick to talk about running a female-led theatre company. Upper Hand Theatre Co was founded last year when Emma, Lisa and Laura produced Laura Wade’s early masterpiece Colder Than Here and they are determined to continue telling female-centred stories.
Press for this production
‘Sparks do indeed fly in Sparks, in an intricate and flowing dialogue… A gloriously unpredictable final scene is the cherry on top of a very appetising and multilayered cake of a show… An unusual and unique play, brought to life in a production that contains hilarity and dramatic tension in equal measure.’ ★★★★ London Theatre 1
‘A hilariously awkward story of sisterhood, grief and football playing fish. Sparks by Simon Longman lets us take a peek into the life of Jess (Emma Riches) and Sarah (Lisa Minichiello), estranged sisters meeting again after 12 years, beautifully directed by Julia Stubbs…
Riches takes on mammoth amount of text in this play, and she really does pour her soul into every speech. Lisa Minichiello gives an astounding performance as the quieter sister… This dynamic alone is enough of a reason to go and see this show… this play truly takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions and I found myself snorting with laughter throughout… I’d definitely recommend getting your hands on some tickets before they sell out! ★★★★ What’s Good To Do.
‘Director, Julia Stubbs, delivers a pair of fine performances from her two principals… The two sisters brought back memories of Steptoe and Son, with the comic moments (and there are plenty) emerging from the tragic situation in which two family members who cannot love each other find themselves…The play is unafraid of tackling big issues, nor is it unwilling to venture into symbolism and the surreal.’ Broadway World
‘Sparks was a touching portrayal of two sisters rekindling after some time. The direction was smart and helped the audience connect with the two characters. All in all a lovely show’ A Youngish Perspective
‘Lisa Minichiello and Emma Riches give strong performances as the dysfunctional siblings, and director Julia Stubbs manages the pacing well’ British Theatre Guide
Photography by Grey Swan/Tim Stubbs Hughes.
Creative Team
Sparks
Written by Simon Longman
Directed by Julia Stubbs
Original music composed and performed by Hannah Reeves
Sound & Lighting Design: Matthew Karmios
Lighting Associate: Matt Gibson
Show Operator: Tom Thornhill
Set Design Consultant: Eleanor Wintour
Graphic Design: Simon Kirk
Produced by Upper Hand Theatre
Cast
Sarah – Lisa Minichiello
Jess – Emma Riches
‘An unusual and unique play, brought to life in a production that contains hilarity and dramatic tension in equal measure.’
‘I’d definitely recommend getting your hands on some tickets before they sell out!’
‘A hilariously awkward story of sisterhood, grief and football playing fish.’
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