What’s your favourite part of the theatre profession?

Probably the opportunity to explore and interrogate a subject: I think I’ve learnt more about myself by making and watching theatre than I have in any other circumstance. I love that theatre is a place or experience that can help to understand myself and the world a bit better.

How did you become interested in puppetry?

My parents took me to see a show, Mnemonic, at Northern Stage when I was young. About halfway in the performers unravelled a chair and it turned into man that walked the stage. Nothing transports the imagination like when an inanimate object comes to life.

Where did you learn to make puppets?

Mostly self-taught using a trial and error ethos, but I owe a lot to Alison McGowan of Puppetship, based in the Ouseburn, who taught me loads. I have some pigeon puppets out on tour at the moment with Lunabug Theatre, who take the family show Pigeon to Arc Stockton on September 27.

You’ve recently returned from the Edinburgh Fringe, can you tell us a little about what happened this year?

In a nutshell – Lands of Glass at Summerhall with Unfolding Theatre was great, as was assessing for the Total Theatre Awards. My highlight was a show by Verity Standen called Hug where you were blindfolded, serenaded by 20 beautiful voices and hugged simultaneously.

You will be bringing When We Embraced to Northern Stage at the end of September and Arc Stockton in October. What can audiences expect?

Someone said of the show – “Imagine a theatre full of strangers sharing an hour and leaving as friends” and I like that that way of describing it. But, I’d say it was inventive, playful with the audience at its heart.

Who inspires you?

Wes Anderson, Micah P Hinson, Nathaniel Rateliff, Amit Lahav and everyone involved in Hug, and Abigail Walton (my wife).

What’s the biggest achievement in your career so far?

I’m not sure I have one. There are many things that I’ve done that I’m proud of, but I think I’d like to do greater things before I consider a question like this.

Why do you think the North-East is a good place to work?

Cultural vibrancy – support and generosity of others – inspiring artistic leaders and artists and excellent coffee.

What’s next?

Next is another Christmas at Northern Stage in Get Santa! – one definite aim is to make our next show in the spring.

Are We Nearly There Yet? – a lifeaffirming show… about death.

  • When We Embraced is currently touring to Northern Stage, Newcastle and Arc Stockton. Northern Stage, Sept 30 – Oct 1. Box Office: 0191-230-5151 or northernstage.co.uk; ARC Stockton, Oct 2, 0164-252-5199 or arconline.co.uk