On The Common
After graduating from the Brit School in 2019 Abby, Kieran and Liv found themselves in a creative slump. There weren’t many opportunities in their area for young working class artists like them, especially when it came to free and accessible theatre. In response, together, they formed ‘On The Common Theatre Company’. A name inspired by their shared proximity and a playful nod to their roots as South Londoners. After their debut show in 2021 ‘Spells For A Broken Heart’ at the Hens and Chickens Theatre, the trio became a fivesome with Max and Mia joining them as their associate artists. Since then, these artists have produced over 20 cabaret nights at The George Tavern in Shadwell.
These nights are called ‘REFLECTIONS ON…’ with a new theme each month. REFLECTIONS ON QUEERNESS, REFLECTIONS ON LONDON, REFLECTIONS ON LOVE, REFLECTIONS ON FEARS, REFLECTIONS ON FAMILY, REFLECTIONS ON BIRTHDAYS, and oh so many more. Each night with different exciting artists eager to perform their work. Whether that is through puppetry, drag, stand up, clowning, tarot reading, karaoke and djing! These nights are ticketed so that their performers are paid. On The Commons ethos is clear: the work they do and the work others do for them will always be valued and compensated.
FORGIVING MOIRA
‘The curtain rises to reveal Moira, standing central in her bedroom. A spotlight falls on her. She is wearing a long evening gown with a tatty stained t-shirt underneath. Her room is extremely messy, littered with delivery takeaway bags, makeup wipes and empty bottles of magnum on the floor. Lighters, grinders, easels with incomplete paintings stuffed animals with hats on, a poster of Pete Davidson.
Two backup singers stand behind her dressed in 1920s Bugsy Malone , Tallulah style, evening gowns.’
‘Forgiving Moira’ is a new play currently being written by Mia Jarvis in collaboration with Max McKenzie. About a young woman called Moira and her experiences living in temporary accommodation after having to leave her family home. The piece excellently balances dark comedy and honest story telling. Mia’s ability to beautifully explore difficult themes is highlighted in this piece.
To contact On the Common about this project, please email the team: oliviarandall2001@gmail.com, Miaamandajarvis@gmail.com, Max.Mckenzie019@gmail.com, abbywitchalls@hotmail.com
KIERAN SMITH
A message from ‘ON THE COMMON’
Sadly this February our dear friend Kieran Smith passed away. Kieran was extraordinarily talented and is missed by his family and friends every day. Kieran changed the lives of so many people and we all continue to create in memory of him. Kieran brought us all together to form ‘On The Common’, we owe everything to him.
We will be hosting a ‘Reflections on Kieran Smith’ at The George Tavern in September in honour of Kieran, with all proceeds going to his family. Please keep an eye on our social media for this date.
INSTAGRAM @onthecommon_
