Nothing about this is easy but we have to be the change that we want to see. My mental health is suffering as a result so I’m gonna be off the radar for a couple days but enough now, time to
#BurnBright
. Love you Queen
@sarahhenleyuk
. Here’s our story.
Wow.
@TedLasso
, & I say this with my WHOLE CHEST is SO important. The way it handles toxic masculinity & pressure put on men to behave a certain way &the strength that comes w/vulnerability is BEAUTIFUL. LOVE this show. Stunning work from
@phildunster
&
@brettgoldstein
in s2/ep8.
Words will never be enough, but we’ll try. After eight months of hell the outpouring of love & support we’ve witnessed today has rendered us pretty speechless. You burn so, so bright. Together we can make a difference.
#burnbright
🔥👑
Blowing my own trumpet here but end of Jan the ‘love of my life’ pissed off a month after proposing (wedding booked) & I healed, launched a company, hosted a sick event & came off my anti depressants during a pandemic- so - f**k needing anybody. I jst need me. & so do YOU.🔥👑❤️
MAD WEEKEND! Lost my wallet last night. A man who lives near me found it in the West End, found me on insta, drove it to me tonight, everything in there, then asked me out for dinner another time! The universe shone on me fondly today! Feeing v.thankful! What are the chances?!
Don’t get swayed by the ones shouting the loudest. Look for the ones quietly doing the work, who usually have been for years & who often gave initial opportunities to those shouting. Integrity is about more than followers & being with the in crowd. It takes grit. It takes years.
This Meghan Markle stuff honestly feels like a witch hunt, like they're doing EVERYTHING in their power to destroy her... deeply uncomfortable. Especially considering Diana. It's really scary -the hate & vitriol. I REALLY hope she's OK. It seems
#BeKind
doesn't extend to her. :(
I’m having a sad week. Financial stress leaving me confined to my own home = way too much time to think. Confidence & self belief shot after a shit year. Feel gross but zero motivation due to the above.
I could go on.. So for anyone feeling similar, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Big hug.❤️
Michaela Cole is SO classy. What a phenomenal woman. And also what a strange thing to sit with. Sweeping the board, cleaning up for your incredible achievement & talent yet for something so steeped in your own pain, abuse and trauma. What a brave, trailblazing woman. Respect. 👑
Just had a cry cos I feel rubbish about how little I've worked this year. It's been DEAD & I struggle when I'm not busy. In a world where comparison is the thief of joy, I wanted to be honest in case you're struggling. Right there with you. Hold tight. We're not our darkest days.
After the sh*ttest couple of weeks ever I feel like I’m finally on my way back to me. (Hope I haven’t spoken too soon). Just want to say thank you again for the incredible support & we will get back to everyone ASAP. What a community. Can’t wait to
#BURNBRIGHT
with you all.👑❤️🔥
Anyone else tempted to live somewhere quiet by the sea and lots of open space, away from everyone and everything where you can pick and choose how involved you get with the world. Just recluse it up when it all gets too much? Just me?
My neighbours friend died by suicide last night. He’d had mental health struggles & tier 4 being sprung at the last minute was too much to take. Please be kind to those doing their best to survive. It’s not the fault of any individuals. It’s this incompetent, reckless government.
‘Thunder only happens when it’s raining’ is a LIE. They LIED. It is aggressively thundering and there is zero rain. And I am furious. The song lied. ‘When the rain washes you clean you’ll know’ ..... I’m never going to know then am I? Because WHERE IS THE RAIN?
Wrote a tweet in support of my friend who was one of the beautifully brave women who spoke out & I started getting sh*t from men inc. ‘black women are so quick to attack black men’ & ‘I should be ashamed’ I went through my own public ordeal -I don’t need the sh*t. Men. Be better.
My birthday’s a week today.
Around my last birthday I thought I maybe didn’t want to be here anymore. But I did the work, rose higher, said goodbye to a whole lotta toxic & I’m better than ever.
I’m a mixed race woman in a world on fire with a voice to use. I’m ready & I’m HERE.
Does anyone else feel they’re a week on/week off at the moment? Last week I was working out, eating fish and salad, feeling motivated. This week I just want to wear my duvet and eat ice cream out of the tub? Is that a thing?
I can hand on heart say I’ve never loved my life more. Less than 2 years ago things were rock bottom & I didn’t want to be here anymore. But here I am, not just still standing but jumping for joy, happier than ever. I’m so glad I stayed. Things DO get better. I’m living proof. 💗
There are 4 lead cast in this, & this headline runs with 3 of us. Leaves out the brown woman. Maybe it’s an accident but this is the sort of shit I’m bored of seeing. It’s not an ego trip, it’s a reflection of the times & it happens too much to be an accident. We all worked hard.
We’ve been clear that what matters to us through all of this is the wider conversation that from the incredible support of so many of u evidently needs 2be had. What matters tonight is ppl have worked hard, whether or not we’re recognised as a part of that. Go get ‘em
#BurnBright
For all the gaslighters who say ‘it’s not that bad now’ or ‘Britain isn’t racist’ or ‘black people get all the jobs’ or any other nonsense- the struggle & the fight remains, is real. To accept a career defining gig & know you’ll likely receive racist ABUSE for it, is abhorrent.
Working and living outside of London has been really a good way for me to confirm once and for all that I absolutely don’t want to live in London. It’s quite liberating. Fresh air, open space, more for your money, slower pace, less pressure. My heart is stiller. ❤️
I really feel I’m becoming a minority wearing a mask on a tube/train? How about you lot? I hate masks to be honest, drive me mad, particularly when I’ve got a lovely full face of make up & I’m double vaxxed but I really want others to feel comfortable so I will continue to do it.
Woken up on that comparison vibe.
A quiet panic about financials, what the future holds, what I haven’t achieved...
Comparison is the thief of all joy.
Telling myself out loud in case you need it too..
Stop. Breathe. It’s YOUR journey babe, & look how far we’ve already come.
My first acting job this year was starting on Monday.
Just got the (very kind and considerate) cancellation email. I knew it was coming but my heart is still heavy.
Can’t imagine what it’s like for venues and producers.
It’s so sad. Feeling for everyone today. So close. 😩
I get ‘reviews’ & why they’re needed. I know not everyone likes your work. I know it’s one persons opinion. I know I’m not for everyone. I’ve had some HORRIBLE stuff said in the past & lovely stuff. But this time around has led me to a bigger question about keeping artists safe.
In the middle of the madness, I've got some light burning bright. I can't wait to start this brilliant show, with such wonderful people. Thank you so, so much for having me. It couldn't come soon enough. <3
I don’t normally share stuff like this or get this emotional on a public platform but I am furious and I’m hurting. The full video is on my Instagram but I know you might not sit through it so here’s the crux.
#BlackLivesMatter
I’ve quietly been implementing changes to my life because I’d put on a lot of weight over the last 2years I think because I wasn’t truly happy. I wanted to be healthier&treat my body better primarily. Weight loss was a bonus. Today, I’m 10lbs down. I’m actually really proud! 💪🏽
We are sorry for the silence. We just want to get it right. And we had a lot of healing to do too. So much love and thanks for your support.. soon come.
#BurnBright
I’m going to buy a home (on my own) next year. I’m just speaking it into existence so hopefully I can screenshot this later down the line with one of those photos of me with the keys. Ok? Thanks. 🙏🏽 2022, I’m coming for you. ❤️
Two months ago the person I thought was the love of my life had asked me to marry him & I had definite work lined up. 2020 was going to be the year I got married & sorted my finances.. instead.. I’m single and self isolating with my cats (single parenting) cos of a virus. WTF?!
Got a rejection for something I really wanted today. So I ate some pizza & some ice cream & accepted that it just wasn’t for me, it was never mine, never meant to be and there’s something else waiting for me & I’m excited to discover what it is. We move & we move & we move. ❤️
This country keeps doing development programmes for writers with no guarantee of shows being given a run. What we need is support and funding into actual productions from new writers, particularly minority groups. Or I fear we just remain in this weird development loop. Forever.
HAMILTON. Revisited. Sick recording. Not lost anything really. Triumph. Best f***ing night. I am buzzed. BROWN PEOPLE EVERYWHERE KILLING IT IN THE THEATRE. Don’t shut us down now. LOOK. Proof is in the pudding. Put the money in AND get brave. Revolutions. Revelations. RISE UP. ❤️
Yay! The news is out and I’m so glad I can finally talk about it. I love this show and team with all my heart & I can’t wait for you to see it. 😍😍😍 PINCH ME!
Side note-
#ItsASin
-the black/brown ppl lived. Unheard of. We ALWAYS die first in tv/film. Yet another clever, intricate nod to ensure many of us feel heard& seen the way so many of those who tragically lost their lives to aids weren’t allowed to. Genius
@russelldavies63
THANKU.
I just wanna say you, yeah YOU right there, reading this - you’re amazing to have got through this year like you have & compared to where we’ve been, there really isn’t that long left so just WELL F***ING DONE. You’re a warrior. Even if you’re crying right now.. WARRIOR, still.
I’m going to see In The Heights alone at the cinema tomorrow as a little treat to myself and I’m really ready for it. I think it’s the kind of self care I deserve.
Had to sit on this for a while. But so buzzed that the news is finally out. Such a moment for me to have been commissioned by one of my fave theatres, making this magic with the sickest team. 😍😍 come hang out with me &
@timbowie_
this August.
@ParkTheatre
OPENING SHOW! Eeeeek!
Kicking off the new season, we have
@toriallenmartin
's fantastic new play, Park Bench.
This innovative digital-come-live-theatre play, taking place online and on-stage, has been commissioned by Park Theatre and is supported by
@ace__london
.
→
I’ve disappeared to the seaside for a bit of healing but I can’t not say.
#HappyPride
. 🏳️🌈 Love is love. And you are beautiful YOU, just as you are. Celebrate loud & proud so the lost ones at the back can hear.
#BurnBright
🌈
This time last year I’d been engaged for 3/4 hours. I had this whole future mapped out. This evening I’m alone in a pandemic. So much can change in a year, & that means that this too shall pass. In the worst times I still feel grateful for my 2nd shot. There’s so much to come. 💗
Been a hard 8 months, the hardest of my life. I’ve put in work, got the help I can & things have been improving but today’s a struggle. Forced to confront some of the battles still raging. If you’re struggling today I’m sending love & strength. We’ll get through it. We always do.
So this is 34. Happy to be here. Happier than I’ve ever been, even in a global pandemic with the world on fire. Surrounded by more love than I ever thought possible. Here comes Chapter Next. I’ll keep on doing the work and I’ll keep on keeping on. Burning Bright. 💗
Getting over a massive heartbreak during lock down........
Isn’t easy.
Especially with zero closure.
I salute anybody going through it. And I am here if you need support. You aren’t alone. Hit me like a ton of bricks this week. 💗
A really cool older guy just passed me as I bopped along the road with my tunes on, pointed at me and went ‘you’re absolutely beautiful’ and carried on with his day. No agenda. And that was wholesome. Today is gonna be a good day. Have a gorgeous one people. 💗
Hey! If you are a LDN based black or mixed race brilliant actress with lots of star quality - all ages - (singing a bonus but not essential at this stage) & you have a showreel - might you share it with me? Thank you so much. Want to submit lots of talent for a paid reading. 🙏🏽💗
Honestly, when u create a life, responsibilities & a FOREVER with someone & then they literally delete all trace of you & f**k off into a brand new life with sum1 else, sh*t gets real. I’m a full time working, single parent to 2 cats, w/a social life& a broken heart! I SALUTE ME!
Julia, don’t be racist. It IS happening in the UK & this has to do with systemic racism, an eternity of oppression, violence & murder of black people & is also a global pandemic. Black lives can’t wait & the Gov are too busy covering up their mate. This isn’t a trip to the beach.
Thousands of people are at a
#BlackLivesMatter
march in Hyde Park during a pandemic, breaking lockdown & social distancing rules, to protest a horrible crime that happened *in another country*. And the UK police are doing absolutely nothing to stop them. That’s lockdown over then
My play
#ParkBench
opened the doors of
@ParkTheatre
tonight after it has been closed for 17 months. That honour isn’t lost on me. Might mean nothing to most but in my corner of the world that’s a little bit of history, legacy & I shared it with the greatest of humans. Thank you.
Quick one
@RishiSunak
-you going to pay for all us unskilled lot to re-train? Cos all the tv & filmed theatre shows you've been watching in lockdown-we made that ages ago, so the money has run out meaning we can't really afford to re-train. But you enjoy your endless repeats pal.
I look at the incredible body of a Love Island girl and I think... I wish I looked like that... and then she says ‘I knowd you’ and I think... swings and roundabouts. We can’t have it all. And maybe that’s the best thing about us.
My mum gets her 2nd vaccine today :) she’s my best friend in the whole world & we’ve been fortunate enough to bubble & I honestly would have struggled so much without her so this is a lovely day, knowing that she will be safe. More emotional than I thought. We’re very lucky. ❤️
Golden wrap on one of the most special jobs I’ve ever done & it makes me smile like this that I got to be part of it. So many hard times before now so I appreciate every second of the good ones. Think I got my groove back. Thank u universe. Thank u me, for always getting back up.
My man took both bottle openers and he even took the colander. F***s Sake. Haven’t you taken enough? Without taking our necessary household goods? To soothe the pain I’ve ordered a ROSE GOLD colander with heart shaped holes. And a gold plated opener. We’re going bouji out here.
Doing some auditions today for a play I was commissioned to write for one of my favourite theatres and my heart is fit to burst. Feeling very grateful and so excited that we are slowly coming BACK! ❤️😍
I have to sign off. Getting too sad & mad. Starting to realise how many people are racist. Not being actively cruel to another person cos of the colour of their skin doesn’t mean you aren’t racist.The prejudice towards black ppl & unconscious bias towards white is all part of it.
I’m actually horrified about these anti mask protests. The privilege & selfishness on it? I feel sad about the state of the world a lot at the moment. I really do. Calling it genocide & some wearing a yellow star? The disrespect & short sightedness of it all is truly shocking.
I’m not a ‘football fan’ right but I enjoyed last night & will watch Sunday because in this messy world full of privileged narcissists looking out for number 1, the England team represent diversity, kindness, hard work & the kind of England I’m proud of. They deserve good vibes.
I genuinely think one of the best things about getting older is being content to just sit & be with yourself. Have a coffee, watch the world go by. Think. Read. Whatever. But just appreciate those precious moments you get to stop and think, and be. You gotta make them a priority.
I was sad today but I...
- did an intense 15 min work out (short yes, but hard)
- went on a 3.5km walk in the sun
- did 2 washes
- started a new book
- checked in w/ a couple pals
- did a face mask
- washed my hair
-cooked a healthy dinner
Small victories. That’s enough.🖤
There. Are. So. Many. Talented. Women. Writers. And. Actors. And. I. Want. To. Give. Opportunities. For. Everyone. Oh. God. This. Is. Hard.
Just gonna have to keep creating work aren't we.
Thanks for these tapes Queens - so, so sick. SO MUCH TALENT. <3
Just want to publicly state that I think
@mogster
is the best kind of human. Genuine, passionate, caring, talented, clever, funny, humble, supportive - she repeatedly shows up & really cares. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again - def meet your idols if one of them is MLM.❤️
We over at
@We_BurnBright
are on the hunt for WOMXN WHO WRITE & ACT and would be happy to perform their own work. Please send showreels and a short example of your work to contact
@burnbright
.org.uk - would need availability all day on 22/03/21. This opportunity is paid. Thanks!
Tired, sad. Consumed a weeks calories in one go. Binge eating & I have a long way to go. I can get sad at being 35&alone- betrayal scars cut deep&this time of year is hard for me. If you fell off the growth game tonight, I’m right beside you. Sometimes it just hurts. Let it burn.
I am beyond buzzed to be an Associate Artist for the absolutely brilliant
@ChiswickPlay
alongside the wonderful Phoebe. They have such exciting plans for the future and I can’t wait for you to see what’s in store. I’m so proud to support & work with this brilliant venue. ❤️
News:
@ChiswickPlay
announce
@toriallenmartin
and
#PhoebeBarran
as new Associate Artists! This exciting collaboration aims to champion new and adventurous work, helping to further highlight Chiswick as a creative hub in the industry.
Read more:
Nahhh. Enough now. That man is consistently problematic. He said it wasn’t hard for black people in the industry, then dismissed musicians like nothing & now beyond offensive to trans people. Back up. I’m so sorry to all our trans friends & family. I stand with you.
#NotAGimmick
I just got some good news and I’m sat alone wondering what to do?! It’s mad isn’t it? We don’t even know how to celebrate good news anymore?! Shit the bed! 🙈😍
That’s a wrap on
#Pandemonium
@BBCOne
Christmas comedy special. Best job, best people, best script, STUPIDLY good cast. I’m gonna go home & pinch myself continuously. Ending the year a whole new me & I couldn’t be happier. Tune in & meet the Jessop family & Cherry in December. 🍒
Don’t talk to me till you’ve got on the
#IMayDestroyYou
train.
@MichaelaCoel
better get the Waller-Bridge level of recognition quick time - she deserves every single bit of success everywhere ever. She’s a powerhouse, multi talented, bad ass QUEEN and I am obsessed. I STAN HARD.
Today I didn’t order a take away despite desperately wanting to and I changed my bed sheets and put a wash on and read two chapters of a book when my concentration is shot. So ✌🏽 - in this climate that is genuinely a win for me. Celebrating the wins all the way! None too tiny.
GANG. I am searching for a neurodivergent performer (woman, 20s/30s). Note from the writer is that this can include - autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia. If you've showreels can you please send them my way. THANK YOU. :) <3
Doing a rehearsed read of a brand new piece. Would need actors available 9th and 10th of April. Not gonna lie, no money attached. But I will 100% feed/water & love you.
Seeking...
BLACK MALE ACTOR ANY AGE
BLACK FEMALE ACTOR ANY AGE
2 X WHITE ACTRESSES (COMEDY CHOPS ARE A PLUS)
Theatre companies/venues/producers with a bit of cash -
@We_BurnBright
are looking to elevate black voices asap because there's a lot of shit that needs to be said NOW, and not just from those with a platform. If you'd like to collaborate & help up fund this please get in touch.
Woke up sad, bleak, not good enough, a familiar black hole. But I had an meeting, so I dragged myself&met 2 massive players who couldn’t have been kinder or more helpful/inspiring. I guess I’m saying - good eggs do exist. Show up as whoever you are today & maybe magic will visit.
I’m really sorry to the axed orchestra members of Phantom. As if losing your job isn’t enough, the blow of the attitude surrounding it is a real kick in the teeth. You can’t MAKE art without artists & I’m so sick of this narrative that the talent is disposable. Sh*tty statement.
I'm having a sad day.
So, I've started writing a new play.
It's called 'NARC'. You might say it's from experience.
If it's bad for your heart, it's good for your art.
Currently Playing: Wish I Didn't Miss You : Angie Stone.
To all my Warriors, I see you. <3
For anyone still awaiting their turn... it will come. Remember comparison is the thief of joy and you too will have your moment. Trust your life & know that this is a sign of great things to come. It’s only the beginning 🥰☺️
Really exciting hearing all these casting announcements and I’m so pleased that this is a special day for so many people after such a slog. I am buzzing for you all. ❤️
I’ve legitimately bought myself Christmas presents & I’m going to wrap them & open them Christmas Day because THAT’S self care. 😂 After being let down a lot & wearing the scars of that, I am making a conscious effort to commit to & show up for myself every damn day. Join me ☺️
Jeez. It’s four stars from
The Times. For a brand new British Musical that had three weeks rehearsal. GET YOUR TICKETS NOW. So proud of everyone. My heart is full. ❤️ Thank you.
Our first ever review...and it's in The Times.
"A miniature Christmas miracle"
"Tori Allen-Martin and Alex Cardall are gorgeous as a sparky young odd couple"
"A lovely little musical with huge charm"
Congratulations all!
I went back to work today on a job I absolutely love and my heart could burst I’m so happy and grateful. For anyone still waiting for their time, it’ll come and it’ll be worth it. Hold on, it’s SO worth the wait. Promise. 🙏🏽❤️
First show of
@rockofagesuk
tour done. Holding the fort for my girl
@iamzoebirkett
in Berlin while she pantos it up. Thanks team for dragging me around the stage and getting me from A to B. And thank you
@PeaaGreen
for being the most gorgeous roomie. ❤️💥
Tonight I was a shop assistant on itv’s
#CleaningUp
& a boss lady on Ch4’s
#Pure
& in reality I’m at home in my pjs wondering what’s next. I can’t say that it gets easier cos it hasn’t for me yet. But I can say that sometimes even for a fleeting moment, dreams become a reality.😘
Does anyone else feel like they’re going insane? I’m REALLY feeling it today. I don’t know what to do to get through the next five weeks or so? 😭😭😭 I’ll find a way to be positive again tomorrow but today is a sad one. If you’re going through it, I’m right there with you. ❤️
The way people are coming for the Line of Duty ending when that genius writer gave you HOURS of edge of your seat, screaming at the tv moments?! It’s HIS show, he earned his ending & he used it to comment on the state of the world. Brave, bold. Never mind you.. LET HIM HAVE IT?!
My Mum is at the hour dedicated for people over 70 at
@marksandspencer
& they just gave her free flowers. I was on the phone to her as she received them & my heart was full at how happy she sounded. Thank you for taking care of our special ones when we can’t be there physically.
Is anyone else STRESSED about omicron? I don’t know whether to cancel plans or not. Hoping to get to Glasgow to see my loved ones & now I’m scared I won’t get there. But I’ve been indoors ill for ages & crave company. All feels relentless. I hope everyone is OK. Sending love. X
Just read about
@scantilyclad_
’s experience in The
@guardian
& I swear if I was a millionaire I’d send her that £10,000 deposit back in a heartbeat to help her get on her feet. Check out her important story. I can’t believe this is happening. OUTRAGEOUS. I’m so sorry Hayley. ❤️