Pete Heppelthwaite
Peter Heppelthwaite is one of the founding members of Limitless Academy of Performing Arts, who have recently set up drama studios in Royston. Peter has a very experienced background in the West End, TV and Film. We asked him some questions to find out more about him:
Your favourite Local Shop? Lordsman Barbers. The guys in here have been great since the day we started work on refurbing Melbourn Street, even before I became a regular for a head shave and beard trim! Supportive from the word go and brilliant at what they do, top boys!
Last book you read? Time to read? What a luxury! I did read Bram Stokers “Dracula” towards the middle of last year as we were looking for a play to produce for our Limitless Adults term. The theatre adaptation was pretty close to the book and a really good challenge for the class.
What makes you happy? Nothing better than taking the whole family to the cinema. It ticks being with those I love most and enables me to switch off for a moment. I love a good movie, although you could say it’s a bit of a “busman’s holiday”… Inspiration for when I’m directing our own stuff!
What do you love about your work? Actually, and this may seem a bit “fluffy”, but… seeing the difference coming to Limitless makes to our students’ personal growth. It seems to help on all levels, from school to family life, and is really quite humbling.
What amazes you? In a nutshell, the resilience of the human spirit. What people go through and how they go through it. Not only amazing, but inspiring.
What is your favourite way to spend a Saturday? Honestly, lying on the sofa, watching brilliant TV drama series. It’s the only real day off for us, so the possibility of being a couch potato is most appealing!
What are you looking forward to most this month? “Oliver!” rehearsals. Time genuinely flies and it’s starting to sound proper. I love directing, and this 32 strong cast is going to do us proud. Being able to take such a well-known piece and put your own stamp on it is a bit special.
What is your proudest moment? So many had and I’m sure so many to come. Birth of my three daughters and when my wife said ‘yes’ have to be up there.
Best thing that has happened to you recently? Winning the National Drama Festival Associations “All British Winners” final. We entered a production of “Teechers” by John Godber into the Welwyn festival and ended up with 8 awards to our name, including the “All Winners”. Just fabulous.
What has been the most valuable life lesson that you have learnt? Being polite and courteous costs nothing but rewards you a million times over.
Four people you would invite to dinner? Quentin Tarantino, Francis Ford-Coppola, my mum and Robin Williams. ‘Nuff said!
What inspirational quote sums you up? “It takes a great deal of courage to see the world in all its tainted glory, and still to love it” – Oscar Wilde
Limitless Academy of Performing Arts
0330 124 6868
www.limitlessacademyarts.com
