Filling in the Gaps – An interview with Dr. Joan Pope – Part 1

The measure of any theatre movement is usually illustrated by its production narrative and the vision of its earlier pioneers and practitioners.

Without an in-depth historical understanding of how Australia’s earlier Theatre for Young People (TFYP) began and developed, and especially the individuals who have steered and sustained this movement along the way, the future of TFYP in Australia will continue to remain secondary to adult theatre, and viewed as a subgenre. Join Rachael Hains-Wesson in a two part series as she interviews Joan Pope (PhD), discussing her unique pathway that led her to assist Australia to become a member of ASSITEJ, the creation of Lowdown, and the founding of Perth’s first, full-time TFYP Company C.A.T.S in 1965.

Joan Pope has amazing sparkling blue eyes, and when she speaks she becomes similar to a seagull rhythmically moving its wings with delight. Joan is flamboyant and dramatic in her gestures, and full of warmth. Interviewing Joan is a theatrical experience. She can imitate a magpie’s call to perfection, and is quick and light on her feet:

I learnt how to mimic with lots of practice, and I did some really funny mimicking on ABC Schools Broadcast. Tha…