Hi Eveline. Who are you and what do you do in comedy?
To the outside world, I am Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh, but on the inside, I'm more Tigger with a bit of Rabbit. I write in various formats because sometimes I like a snack, sometimes a three course meal, sometimes a dirty take-away.
What was the first comedy that resonated with you personally?
As a child, I found Some Mother's Do 'Ave 'Em the most hilarious thing ever, with adults being completely incapable. It was also a shared experience, watching it with the whole family which amplified the effect. I have watched it since and think it holds up pretty well - episodes are packed with incident and jeopardy, so while it is comfy and tame in many respects, it still packs a punch.
Who do you most admire in the business?
One would be Chris Morris for his scathing commentary and sheer originality. The other would be Greg Daniels for the enormous amount of great shows he's put out and his compassion for people.
The comedy industry is competitive. Why should people pick you to work with?
I have range and originality in my writing and this melds with a dedication to my craft. I am an active member of The Screenwriters Network , a Discord community; I have worked on my scripts with Script Angel and Euroscript; I have done a short course at the NFTS. I believe I have talent and placed semi final in two competitions and think I am improving. I am not at all precious about my writing and welcome feedback in the way that a sportsperson would welcome training. Beyond that, I feel I have a distinct voice as an older woman with a conservative outlook. This makes me sound like a pile of stale biscuits but in fact, it just means a different perspective in an industry that skews younger and more radical.
If you could change one thing about the UK comedy industry, what would it be?
Bring in writers' rooms, at training and professional levels.
Where would you like to be in 10 years' time?
An established writer with some financial security and a good body of work to my name, made with a great team.
If you ever get free time, how do you spend it?
Watching TV as there is just so much great stuff. I have also just started cold water swimming and feel like a very smug Xena Warrior Princess.
If a genie offered you one wish, what would you ask for?
Well, not for world peace, that's for sure. I would ask to be able to time travel in a safe, non invasive way and just watch people doing their thing whenever, but that said, I would probably start with the large dinosaurs.
Published: Tuesday 23rd February 2021