Scott Murphy, playwright
Tell us a bit about your job I have a full-time day job so my writing is something I have always had to do in my spare time. I have had three plays produced since 2008 – Falling out with the Joneses, Closing Time and Walls and Bridges, which was selected and performed at the New York International Fringe Festival 2011.
What inspires you? I love travelling and seeing as much of the world as I possibly can. I am inspired to write by many feelings, the majority of which relate to various fears; whether failure, injustice, death or insecurity.
When were you last moved by culture? I thought Andrew Schofield and Stephen Fletcher gave brilliantly balanced performances in David Mamet’s funny and moving play A Life in the Theatre last year.
What are you most looking forward to in the next 12 months? Without being biased, it has to be my new play Two Little Words (which I’m also directing) at the Liverpool Actors Studio Theatre from April 9-13. It’s a comedy about a wedding and how the important meaning of that union can more often than not, become lost amongst the table decorations.
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time? I’d like to think I will be working as a full time writer, but I’m far too much of a realist to believe that will be the case.
What makes you laugh? Things that look and feel natural. Generally speaking, I’m not a fan of TV comedy as I find most of it pretty bland and boring. However, I think Getting On (starring Jo Brand) is a brilliant series.
What gets you angry? Indifference, greed, complacency, a lack of imagination and being ignored. Oh, and smug dog owners who look on disapprovingly as I chase mine across the park to get him back on his lead!
