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Steve Wright

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Journey’s End is Steve’s first outing as a director for Ellerslie Theatre. Previously he has directed for Howick Little Theatre, Dolphin Theatre and Company Theatre. During a ‘geriatric OE’ to Oxford, England (2004–07), he was cast in several outdoor Shakespeare productions, including Stephano in The Tempest and also directed The Memory of Water for the Oxford Theatre Guild.

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I feel very privileged to have been chosen to direct Journey’s End for Ellerslie Theatre. At a time when the world reflects upon the beginning of the First World War 100 years ago, it is only fitting that a play with such gravitas as this is presented to commemorate the event. Sherriff’s play is ideally suited to that task, having being heralded as a classic since its first appearance in the West End of London over 80 years ago.

Themes include heroism, the realities of war, grief and mourning, cowardice, fear, the hopelessness of war, class, coping mechanisms in hard times, camaraderie.

The cast and I have been through a very enjoyable collaborative process. Having been selected for their respective parts, they found their own pathways to complete their characters with only a little guidance from me. I have nothing but praise for them.
I have many people to thank for their valued input but I must mention, in particular, Anna Adam who was there from the all-important beginning, through setting the course and supporting us to our journey’s end.


For Ellerslie TheatreJourney's End (2014)director