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Maggie worked for many years as a professional actor in theatre, TV and film, followed by a fifteen year stint as a screen acting tutor and casting director. More recently, she has turned to writing, producing two novels: 'Isabel' and 'Fragments from a Figment', a collection of short stories and poems, a full length play 'The Musidora' and two one act plays.
Maggie has directed for both Company Theatre and ETS as well as for ad hoc groups and solo performers.
David Blakey talks with Maggie Maxwell, the writer and director of Transitions, one of six plays in the Ellerslie One Act Play Festival.
David: It would have been fairly easy to find an existing one act play to direct, so why did you decide to write your own play and direct it yourself?
Maggie: I guess because I'm a writer and seeing my work on stage completes the process.
David: So is it better to direct your own new work than to have someone else direct it?
Maggie: No, not necessarily. Having someone else direct would bring new insights. I'd have been happy for an experienced, innovative director to take on the job had anyone come forward. It would have had to be someone I could trust.
David: What are the opportunities and the problems that arise from directing your own work?
Maggie: Directing gives me the opportunity to thoroughly workshop the piece and find out what works. There has been lots of teaching - this is the first play for several of my actors.
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