Behind The Woman in Black: Mark Potter

The closing date for The Woman in Black at London's Fortune Theatre is fast approaching, so we're continuing to explore the show's impact on those who've worked in and around the theatre over the years.

This time, ATG caught up with one of the Fortune's wonderful Front of House staff, Mark Potter . Mark, Front of House Performance Team Member?since 2018, gave us his highlights from the past few years, and also discussed his hopes for the theatre's future...

ATG: Can you describe your experience of working at the Fortune Theatre during The Woman in Black?

Mark: It’s been a lot of fun to work on! I’ve been at the Fortune since Christmas 2018, and it’s been really enjoyable. The audiences are nice, and we’re a close-knit team as a venue. I’ve had the chance to professionally develop in a lot of ways at the Fortune - learning Box Office, shadowing backstage, and taking tips from the actors about my creative work.

ATG: What would your day-to-day entail as a FOH member working on The Woman in Black??

Mark: Welcoming patrons; selling food, drinks and merchandise; answering patrons’ questions; and generally looking out for their well-being.

ATG: Why do you think audiences have enjoyed watching the show for such a long time??

Mark: Two key reasons; firstly, it’s a very clever thriller that gets under the audience’s skin like a good horror movie.?

The second reason – I mean, it sounds banal, but the show is very cost-effective, and so can teach aspiring theatre-makers how to work with just two actors on stage.

ATG: What is your favourite thing about the show?

Mark: I like that it is one of the few non-musicals that has won a cult following among audiences. It’s rare that you get a wordy play that strikes a chord with the public anymore, in the vein of smash hit plays of the past like Gaslight and Blithe Spirit. The Woman in Black is a great play for people who don’t go to the theatre much – it’s direct, it’s fun, and it’s a great showcase of what you can do in live theatre!

ATG: What was the most memorable moment or performance for you, in your time working in/around the Fortune Theatre??

Mark: Ooh, so many…

The day we found out it was closing was pretty memorable. We are sorry to see the show closing, but there’s still a great future ahead for the Fortune.

I think the Fortune is a great venue to bring fringe shows to a wider audience. It’s so intimate, you can really feel close to your audience. Who knows what the future holds?

Thank you to Mark for this fascinating window into life at the theatre! Visit the Fortune Theatre's website page for more details on what's coming next...