The Post: Actress
The Post Holder: Caoimhe Farren
Empathy and resilience are crucial for Caoimhe Farren’s career as an actress.
Give a brief outline of your career to date:
I applied to the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts in London and graduated in 2013. Over the past 10 years I have worked in various roles in theatre and TV, landing some great roles. Im currently in rehearsals for a new adaptation of Yerma by Tinderbox Theatre Company where I play the title role. This version will be staged in a contemporary setting on the Irish border – its the heartbreaking story of a young woman trapped by societal expectations and personal anguish. Its full of humour, tension, and chaos – where laughter often masks deeper struggles, creating a rich blend of light and dark. As a writer, my debut play Hello Charliewas developed through the Lyrics New Playwright’s programme – it was shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Playwriting and a finalist in the Victoria Wood Playwriting Prize for Comedy.
What was your favourite subject at school?
Unfortunately, Drama wasnt an option at my school, but my favourite subject was English. I loved writing short stories and dissecting plays. Studying English is a great way to really get to know a piece of work and find its relevance in society today. For example, a play like Yerma which is 90 years old is currently on the GCSE/A-level curriculum explores themes such as societal pressures around family, becoming a mother and what is perceived as ‘normal’, all topics which are just as relevant today, as they were nearly 100 years ago. I was also mad for P.E. Any excuse to run about like an eejit.
Did you go on to further / higher education? If so, what did you study and where?
Yes, I did a BTEC in Performing Arts in Derry, then after ten years of mucking around (name a job, Ive probably tried my hand at it) I applied to do a BA in Acting in London.
How did you get into your area of work?
I played Tiny Tim in A Christmas Carol aged six. I was sensational (if I say so myself) and thought everyone loved me. The next year I was confident I’d reprise the role only to be told I was too old. At age seven it was an early lesson in rejection for an ageing actress.
Is this what you always wanted to do?
Always! I have always had a passion for the arts, I love acting and writing and knew it was something I wanted to pursue professionally.
Were there any essential qualifications or experience needed?
No. Im glad I did my courses as they did give me a good grounding but honestly I think a passion for your craft is as good anything, that and self-motivation and resilience to keep going (especially in this line of work).
Are there alternative routes into the job?
Absolutely. Many incredibly successful actors didnt go to traditional drama schools. You just have to be really good at pretending.
What are the main personal skills your job requires?
Empathy. And a willingness to make a complete idiot of yourself.
What are the best and most challenging aspects of the job?
The best thing about my job is being able to tell peoples stories. Sharing an experience with an audience and bringing them with you on a journey. I also love the buzz of meeting and working with like-minded creatives like Patrick and the team at Tinderbox. The most challenging part is putting your future in other peoples hands. The great jobs can seem too far apart and rejection is always a bitter pill. You just have to try not to take it personally.
Why is what you do important?
Drama connects us to a shared humanity. It’s universal and art gets people talking.
What does a typical day entail?
Everyday begins with a stretch. An actor’s body is their instrument as they say. I have to make sure it doesn’t get too rusty, particularly at the moment – Yerma is a physically demanding role and I have to be warmed up properly. We rehearse until 5pm. Go home, rest, eat, prepare for the next day, lather, rinse, repeat! It’s full on but I feel incredibly fortunate and it’s definitely a career highlight.
Describe your ideal day off
I’d do nothing. Some people struggle doing nothing. I’m outstanding at it.
Yerma is running at the Lyric Theatre until November 3 as part of the Belfast International Arts Festival.
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