CODA QUASHIE
Biography
My name is Coda Quashie and I’m a 33 year-old Creative Writer. My artistic journey is truly varied, ranging from the BBC, N.Y.T, N.T, Bridewell and Young Vic Theatres…to spoken word performances in Ip-Arts and Metrowords Festivals, as well as The Poetry Café and with The Literature Lounge. Writing has been my constant companion and is my definitive creative voice-of-choice. I believe that my life's mission is to use it to inspire and facilitate as many other budding creators as possible.
What first attracted you to the theatre?
I’ve always loved the way that any venue has the potential to be turned into a space where dreams are brought to life.
If you could pick any one person or theatre company to work with on your next project, who/which would it be?
I’m totally devoted to developing my own theatre company ‘360CC’ but believe that there’s a script inside of me which would be of great interest to Kevin Spacey!
What is your opinion of Off West End theatre, in general?
I believe that theatre is theatre…It is valid whether central or off west, however, I am passionate about creativity being accessible to all and am a great fan of the way in which local theatres often crossover as creative hubs for the community.
What was the most inspiring performance you have ever seen? Why?
The most inspiring performance came from my mother 2 years ago. At an open mic poetry night, she was moved to give an impromptu rendition of “A Mother’s Love” which was a poem she remembered from her days in English class in Carriacou, Grenada. It reminded me that real passion can outstrip rehearsal any day…Plus the fact that I have a hugely talented mum!
What piece of work are you the most proud of?
I hardly have time to be proud! However, with hindsight and feedback, I know that each of the pieces I’ve written, whether poetry, prose or play, have tested the audience in some way, so there’s an element in everything I write of which I’m proud!
What makes a really good character?
That’s a great one! I literally “receive” my characters. By that I mean they are downloaded into my mind and I often get a gut feeling as to whether I’m capturing their essences. I believe what makes them engaging is the authenticity of emotion…and I take full responsibility for being a conduit for expressing those feelings as they are, whether raw or undercooked!
Are there any actors/actresses you would like to write a play for?
I’ve mentioned Kevin Spacey, but Orlando Bloom has a wonderful subtlety to his performing which I’d like to unravel a bit! However, my heart is in discovering, nurturing and giving new talent the chance to shine.
What play do you wish you’d written?
Oooh, I’m happy with what I get, thanks! I think the beauty of having so many writers is that all bases get covered in some way and when a space reveals itself, the perfect writer emerges to fill it….Or a writer simply steamrolls in and says ‘Here I am!’
Can you tell our readers about what you’re doing now/next?
I am currently in final rehearsals for ‘The Set-Up’ which is happening this Saturday and Sunday 7.30p.m at a renovated church venue on the Isle of Dogs called ‘The Space.’ I wrote it to question whether true love can defy space and time. I’m excited about it because I’m acting and directing it too with a capsule cast plus film and live music to punctuate the script…Also, the audience participate by choosing the ending. However, most importantly, all of the proceeds go to The Marsha Phoenix Memorial Trust, a charity which helps to house and empower young women through education, careers and life-skills support!
As for the future, I have just been approached about taking the production to Watermans Theatre in West London in July, which will allow me to upscale on everything….So, as they say (and I still don’t know who they are!) watch this space!
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