Live from the Edinburgh Fringe: Sam Bates, Award Winning Playwright

Undercurrent Stories

Live from the Edinburgh Fringe I talk to Sam Bates, the award-winning playwright and director of the Working Progress Collective Theatre. In between performances of his latest play, 'Sessions', we delve deep into Sam's personal journey. From his challenging upbringing, troubled youth and to finding his voice in the world of theatre, the episode offers a raw and honest look at a young man's journey.
In the episode you will hear about;
Edinburgh Fringe Experience: Sam shares what it’s like to perform at one of the world's most prestigious arts festivals without the big marketing budgets of other productions, relying on word of mouth and personal interactions to build momentum.
Sam’s Personal Journey: Growing up in a working-class background, Sam faced numerous challenges, including family struggles, legal troubles, and mental health issues. He opens up about his path from being lost and isolated to finding purpose through theatre and storytelling.
The Story Behind 'Sessions:' Sam talks about his play, 'Sessions', which follows the journey of a 17-year-old facing the consequences of violent crime and his transformative relationship with an unconventional youth officer. The play draws heavily from Sam’s personal experiences and those of his peers.
The Importance of Authentic Masculinity: Sam discusses his work with youth charities and the need to redefine masculinity in a healthier, more supportive way, emphasising vulnerability and emotional openness.
Creating the Working Progress Collective: Sam reflects on the challenges and triumphs of setting up his theatre company and the importance of building trust and collaboration within his team.
Audience Reactions: From social workers to former youth offenders, audience members connect deeply with the themes of 'Sessions'. Sam emphasises the importance of post-show discussions, where the audience can engage directly with the cast and creators.
Future Plans: Looking ahead, Sam talks about plans for a UK tour, scratch nights, and new writing projects that explore working-class stories and the complexities of human nature.
Memorable Quotes:

“We’re never 100% healed, and we’re never 100% good. Nine times out of ten, it’s just good people sometimes doing bad things.”
“I want people to walk away from the play with a new perspective, to question their first impressions of people, especially those who seem lost or troubled.”
Connect with Sam Bates and Working Progress Collective Theatre:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workingprogresscollective/
- Twitter: https://x.com/WPCtheatre
- Website: https://www.workingprogresscollective.co.uk/
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Intro and outro music, 'Time for a Coffee' Bob Wells © 2020
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