But although rooted in the city, the play reaches far beyond it in its humanist appeal. This is a play for anyone who has felt their youthful ideals slipping away. “Why do you get all this life if it can’t be used?” says Shirley, taking control. In Stephen Fletcher’s finely calibrated production, Carter draws the audience towards her in a warm, generous performance, majestic not only in its big laughs but in its contrasting moments of vulnerability and tender sentiment – followed, of course, by even bigger laughs.
— The Guardian
★★★★★
Helen Carter’s performance is nothing short of perfection.
— The Stage
Stephen Fletcher’s direction is impeccable. Assisted by Jessica Meade, they ensure that Shirley’s character development is not just performed but felt. This version of Shirley is bold, her transformation tangible. The layers of her journey unfold gradually—each moment, from frying actual chips and egg in her floral apron to reclining in her luxurious floral silk robe whilst living out her dreams, is carefully considered.
— Stagey Reviews

Touch

Becky Downing with FLOOD Theatre

2023

Unity Theatre

I Had the privilege of seeing TOUCH tonight directed by Jess Meade. I cannot stress how beautiful the writing in this play is and how beautiful the direction is. They are the real deal. Spent about two hours after with my mate talking about the need to be seen.
— Luke Barnes
A tapestry of stories exploring connection, loneliness and the value of being seen for who you are. Big, profound human experiences explored through ordinary days. Gorgeous. Beautiful. Delicate.
— Audience Feedback
The most joyful disabled narrative I have seen on stage!
— Sally Abbott

A Billion Times I Love You

Patrick Maguire

2022

The Liverpool Everyman

★★★★
Intensely realised.
— Arts City Liverpool
★★★★

Compelling, touching and familiar... Jessica Meade’s direction is dynamic.
— The Reviews Hub
One of the most real love stories you’ll see on stage.
— The Guide Liverpool
Playfully directed.
— The Stage

Build a Rocket

Christopher York

2021

The Liverpool Everyman

Meticulously directed, detailed and nuanced production which was powerfully moving and dynamic. Inspired and eager to attend the next one...
— Dr. G Rodosthenous, Associate Professor Theatre Directing
Absolutely blown away by the breadth and talent that has come through and breathed life back into The Liverpool Everyman. Jessica Meade’s interpretation of Build a Rocket is knockout!
— Chris Tomlinson, Associate Director of Young Everyman & Playhouse
This was the first play I’d seen in a long time due to lockdown and it blew my mind. The cast were utterly amazing, the story was told beautifully
— Sarah Van Parys

When you cure me

Jack Thorne 

2018

Edinburgh Fringe Festival

Completely captivating
and extremely relevant’
— Audience review
Meade’s careful craftsmanship enables
the audience to see and understand each
character’s perspective. It is a raw, honest and
an incredibly important piece of theatre
— Audience review

Back in Blighty 

Thread Theatre

Stage One, Leeds, 2018

Go and see this.
— Leeds Student Radio
A performance though set
in a different time has so much
relevance to life in our current climate.
— Audience review
Every production value was superb,
the dynamic of movement, music
and character performance was a
wonderful wave of the emotional spectrum.
— Audience review

Port

Simon Stephens

 

Stage One, Leeds 2018

I really wish I’d seen this.
— Simon Stephens
Detailed, heartbreaking performances,
an unhurried tempo and excellent organic direction
with an integrated set and lighting design [...]
exposing a series of duets crammed with fragments of unfulfilled love,
fleshed out with glances full of beautiful longing
and silences oozing nostalgia of what could have happened if...
— Dr. G Rodosthenous, Associate Professor Theatre Directing
Nothing short of perfection.

With heart-wrenching scenes that were
almost voyeuristic at moments, it felt less
like watching a play and more like watching real-life
scenarios unfold between real people and in real time.
— The Scribe Magazine

WINNER OF BEST SHOW 2018

- THE SCRIBE ARTS MAGAZINE

 

 

 

WINNER OF BEST ACTOR 2018

- THE SCRIBE ARTS MAGAZINE

 

 

 


Alec Clegg Stage, Leeds 2018

Medea

Producer

Euripides

This was a strong production of Medea [a] moving classic with fresh passion
— The Scribe Arts Magazine