Jess's Connections Blog

Mia and the Fish. Where to start? I didn’t choose this play as one of my options in the summer last year, but I am so glad that we were given the opportunity to explore this incredible story. For the audition process, I had no clue which character I even wanted to be. Usually, I like to read the script and pick the character that I relate to immediately, making the whole process of becoming the character so much easier. However, with this script I didn’t see myself in any of the characters the first-time round, and didn’t know who to audition for. I knew this was going to be my last year of Connections, and I wanted to go out with some sort of a bang. 

So, I picked Mia. And that’s who I was given. It felt daunting at first, but I was made more confident by Sarah saying that the roles we were given were the best for the play. Over time, that became clear to everyone I think – we all grew into our characters in such a fantastic way, and it ultimately rewarded us with a magical show. 

Being double cast again was disappointing initially, but with such a big role it soon became a blessing rather than a curse as it had appeared at the start. Seeing Izzy’s beautiful portrayal of Mia all the way through the rehearsal process was such a big help to me, especially in scenes that I found more difficult. It helped me to be braver in scenes and not be afraid to try new and different ways through the story.

My favourite part of this year's Connections has definitely been working alongside such talented and amazing actors. Everyone has embraced the process with such enthusiasm, it made this journey a joy to be a part of. I have to give a special shoutout of course to Ash and Fred, aka Samaki the talking fish. Being Mia would not have been the same without either one of you, so thank you!

 And of course, none of this would have been possible without Sarah and John’s wonderful direction, Ash’s marvellous lighting and sound, or Sam’s dedication to organising props and everything else backstage. I am so grateful to have been a part of this show, so thank you to all of you!

The Mia I met in November, and the Mia I said goodbye to at Cast were two completely different characters, both with an inspiring and important story to share with the world, and I am so proud of what we achieved together. I will miss her.