We caught up with actor Howard Platt following the first night of City Lit Theatre Company’s production of After Life.
City Lit Theatre Company presents Vernon Thompson’s production of Jack Thorne’s After Life from 7-9 December in the John Lyon’s Theatre.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself
About 20 years ago, whilst working in central London, I popped out to the bank in my lunch hour to buy some foreign currency. Soon after arriving, I noticed a struggle between a security guard and a young man. I help the guard to wrestle him to the ground as he was trying to get away. The bank doors were locked, and the police were called. After the police arrived, I made a statement to the police about the incident and was eventually allowed to return to work. Several months later I was notified that there had been a successful prosecution, and I was invited to the Met to receive a civilian bravery commendation. I had just acted instinctively, but only later did it occur to me that the thief might have been armed!
What makes your happy?
There are two things that make me happy. First, being creative. I particularly enjoy graphic design and photography (both self-taught), and of course, being a part of the creative process in theatre. Second, being in nature - just enjoying scenery or watching the birds at the feeders in my garden. I have managed to combine all of this through my theatre photography and, more recently bird and nature photography. Other people, friends, and family, keep me grounded, by taking me outside of my own head, and away from the barrage of gloomy world news. I am a compulsive worrier.
Where did you train as an actor?
I've had no formal acting training, but have participated in many short courses in voice, acting and singing at places such as RADA, the Bridewell Theatre, NODA Summer School and most recently, City Lit where I did several courses included Acting for Radio, Acting: Shakespeare and City Lit Theatre Company.
What I enjoy most about studying at City Lit are the relationships I have built, they really are, for lack of a better phrase, priceless. Not just with the tutors but with the colleagues as well. Throughout the years, I have done so many courses, I have met so many people, and still have solid relationships with those people.
Tell us about your latest venture or a future project (outside City Lit)
My local theatre company (LADS, in Loughton, Essex) will be celebrating its centenary year in 2024. We're presenting a season of plays by well-known playwrights. In March, I'll be playing the role of Charlie in Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller, considered to be one of the all-time classics of American theatre.
Why did you wanted to join this City Lit production?
I performed in the City Lit production 'Earthquakes in London' last year. It was a very special experience for me, both in terms of theatre and teamwork and camaraderie of the cast and production team. I wanted to recapture this in After Life - and I have definitely not been disappointed.
Why should people come and see this production?
The play deals with universal themes of mortality, memory, love and pain. It doesn’t preach, but it does reveal a lot of humanity and is both touching and joyful. No spoilers - just come and see it! We had a great reaction on the first night last night but there are 3 performances left!
City Lit Theatre Company presents After Life
If you could spend eternity with just one precious memory, what would it be?
City Lit Theatre Company presents Vernon Thompson’s production of Jack Thorne’s After Life.
Performances in the John Lyon’s Theatre are at 7.30 pm, Friday 8th - Saturday 9th December, with a Saturday matinee at 2.30 pm.
