‘New plays, new voices, new stories’ – how Middle Child is bouncing back from Covid

As live theatre begins to make a welcome return, Paul Smith, Artistic Director at Middle Child, spoke to Bobbi Hadgraft about re-emerging from the blight of the pandemic

With nights out replaced by lockdowns, the theatre industry was brought to its knees.

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on so many sections of society, but perhaps no other sector has been as badly hit as live entertainment.

Hull-based Middle Child was one of countless theatre companies across the country to have found its creative output brought to an abrupt halt by Covid-19.

Middle Child describes its work as “theatre that makes noise” but, without audiences of any kind, it found itself forced into silence.

With backing from Arts Council England, Hull City Council and Absolutely Cultured, among others, it prides itself on telling untold stories to audiences who may have deemed the arts an inaccessible luxury.

Being quintessentially Hull is key. Local artists are at the core of its productions, which are designed to increase artist and audience diversity in the city.

Now, having come through the most challenging period of its history, Artistic Director Paul Smith says he’s finally excited again for what the future holds for Middle Child.

WELCOME RETURN: Live theatre is back

“Individuals and companies lost momentum, long-planned projects and income. Our industry has been one of the hardest hit and it’s been a struggle for artists to stay afloat,” he says of the impact of the pandemic.

“It was an uncertain time, for sure. Our work is all about celebrating the liveness of theatre and bringing people together in a space to have a good night out. Suddenly none of that was possible, and we had to completely rethink every aspect of what we do, rolling with the punches and adapting to the situation.”

Middle Child had to strike a fine balance between short-term survival and a long-term sustainable business model.

“We managed to make sensible decisions which kept the company moving forward, whilst investing in the long-term sustainability of Middle Child,” says Paul.

“We survived by being guided by our values.

“When all of our programmed work had to be postponed and we lost Darley’s, our home of 10 years, we refocused on the beliefs at the heart of our company and ensured they informed the decisions we made at every level of the organisation.

“This meant a focus on people, through both continued investment in the development of new work and a prioritisation of supporting the staff and freelancers on whom our work so heavily depends.”

There is now light at the end of what seemed a very long tunnel.

EXCITING FUTURE: Middle Child has big plans

“Our city has one of the most vibrant and resilient grassroots arts scenes,” says Paul. “It’s been incredible to see how brilliantly everyone has adapted and there’s lots to be excited about in the future.

“We will continue to champion new voices, invest in local talent and break down barriers to theatre attendance – making theatre with big ideas which brings people together for a good night out.

“After the last year or so, we’re more driven than ever to celebrate human connection and tell stories which help to build a better world.

“We’re incredibly grateful of the support we get in Hull – from audiences, artists, other companies and our ‘Middle Child Mates’. 

“There’s a real community feel in the city and a genuine desire to support local. However, post-pandemic, Middle Child, like all arts organisations, really do need as much support as possible to help us get back to where we were.

“So, yes, we’d love it if everyone would get back to live theatre as soon as they feel comfortable to do so!

What does the future hold for Middle Child now?

“New plays, new voices, new stories,” says Paul. “We’re an incredibly ambitious company and are working hard to make sure there is a pathway for anyone in Hull who wants to work in theatre, while continuing to reach beyond the usual theatre crowd through our productions.

“This is just the beginning of where we want to be, and we’re going to keep listening to the people of Hull as we find ways to bring our ambition closer to our reality.”

For more information about Middle Child, visit www.middlechildtheatre.co.uk.