In our profile series, Tell Us In 10, we ask cast members and creatives of top London shows to tell us all about themselves in just 10 questions. From how their castmates would describe them and alternative careers, to their Theatreland idols, we want to know it all!
This week, we hear from Matilda Feyiṣayọ Ibini, who is the writer of Sleepova at The Bush Theatre.
Find out more about Matilda and her career so far below:
1) My route into theatre was…
I started writing Scooby Doo fan fiction in primary school (and a bit in secondary) which then evolved into writing poetry in secondary school, then attending a Saturday youth drama group whilst I was in secondary school, having an encouraging English Teacher and the many mentors I had through college and university.
2) The thing I love most about my job is…
The variety, often no day or project is the same. I get to do different things, learn new things, meet lots of new people and go to lots of different places.
3) My favourite show from present or past (that isn’t one I have worked on) is…
I reject the notion that I can only have one favourite show, I’ll share some examples in no particular order: Bears In Space, seven methods of killing kylie jenner, Skin a Cat, New Nigerians, The Brothers Size, Misty, The High Table and many many many many more.
4) A misconception about my job is…
I just make stuff up for a living but it’s actually a little more complex than that.
5) The hardest part about my job is…
Rejection, juggling multiple projects, managing my (social) care package and my mental health.
6) The career moment I’m most proud of is…
My family and friends really showing out to see my first full length play in 2014. Having an active and encouraging support network is one of the reasons why I even have a career.
7) On my days off I like to…
Catch up with friends and family.
8) My daily work rituals include…
Taking each day as it comes. That can mean not writing every day, trying to stay on top of my inboxes, reading for research and leisure, listening to music, managing my chronic pain, doing life admin and staying hydrated.
9) My inspiration is…
Fluid. Lots of things inspire me, my connections to my family, friends, other artforms, my peers work and other artists work, my Yoruba heritage, music, TV and film.
10) The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is…
No one can tell a story the way YOU can.