DIRECTOR - SARAH HARKINS

Sarah’s journey in the arts began as an actor, a career she passionately pursued for 10 years before transitioning to casting. Over the past six years, she has made a significant mark in theatre, television, and film. Her recent credits include The Ballad of Wallis Island, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder (BBC), The Gathering (Channel 4), The Full Month (Disney), Changing Ends (ITV), and many more.

In addition to her work in casting, Sarah is also a talented writer. Her plays have been produced and performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and in 2017, she received funding from Arts Council England for an R&D project focusing on the experiences of carers of those living with dementia.

As someone from a working-class background, Sarah is deeply committed to increasing representation of working-class voices in the arts and media. This passion led to the creation of WORK UP, an initiative dedicated to promoting working-class representation. Her advocacy for diversity and inclusion, along with her experience nurturing emerging talent, positions her as a powerful force in shaping the future of storytelling which has allowed her to form partnerships with the RSC and The Royal Lyceum Theatre, Edinburgh.

For me, having the support of women on this project was absolutely essential. It simply wouldn't have worked without strong females leading the film, from the cast to the crew and even down to those who helped finance it. There was a deep sense of safety and understanding that came from working with a predominantly female cast, alongside wonderful men who joined us and truly grasped the subject matter - the trauma, the sensitivity of the performances, and the vulnerability the actors brought to their roles. In an industry still dominated by male creatives, it was inmportant for me to make space for female voices to be heard as loudly and clearly as possible. I wanted heads of departments, especially the women, to feel empowered to contribute meaningfully to my vision and to feel safe and respected doing so. I have a son and a partner who I love deeply, but for this one, female voices came first.