"Take other performers’ jealousy as a compliment "

Hometown
I grew up in Cockermouth in Cumbria, and now live in Kendal

What do you do?
I am a fire performer. I also run a crew of performers which involves finding them work doing fire and circus performances.

How long have you been at it?
I’ve been working as a fire-juggler for four years

What have you done then?
The majority of my work is my solo fire show. I perform this at weddings, parties and events. I also perform group fire shows with the other Juggling Inferno fire performers . We have performed our show at events from student balls to viking festivals!

Have you got qualifications?
An NVQ in sparkying (being an electrician). This was my former job.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
Early on a vet; later on my only ambition was to get high and look cool

What do you do all day?
There is no such thing as a typical day, which is a great part of my job.

If I’m at home, I train and then work on marketing and admin.

If I’m performing, the day usually involves a long drive to an event, then setting up for a show, doing the show and driving home. The travelling can get tiring but performing is my life. I love it and I know I am very lucky to be able to do it for a living.

What’s the best thing about your job?
Lots of things such as:

• I love showing off
• I love going to great events and being part of the backstage environment
• I love being very good at what I do
• I love seeing amazed faces
• Great work mates
• Great money for each gig
• Great challenges to overcome
• Being clapped at the end of a shift
• Personal expression
• Creativity and artistic freedom
• Getting work for my fellow performers is a great buzz
• I love doing shows when kids are watching. It’s a privilege to be able to inspire them
• The freedom that comes from being my own boss

And the worst?
Financial insecurity and the travelling are minor hassles but I love my job and so these things are easily dealt with

What’s your dream job in theatre?
I have my dream job. I wouldn’t swap if for anything. I am very, very lucky.

Got any wise words for someone who wants to be where you are now?

• Work very hard
• Never ever give up
• Listen to advice from those more experienced than yourself, but never lose track of your own personal goals
• Don’t forget to enjoy each little success
• Good business ethics will go a long way in the long term
• Never give up an opportunity to perform, free or paid
• Accept the fact you will have to make big sacrifices to make big rewards
• Don’t be too hard on yourself
• Don’t be too full of yourself
• Don’t take rejection personally
• Take other performers’ jealousy as a compliment
• Work harder
• Work even harder
• Now do some more work