I have a longing in my heart for my old mentor, Robin Midgley. Robin was a British theatre, television, and radio director, and was one of my tutors at RADA in 2003. The thing about Robin was that he took the time to read my writing outside of his duties as a tutor. And, he really understood me. He understood what I was after as a writer. He wouldn’t let me settle for mediocrity in my work. He challenged me to push harder – to strive for what he knew I was capable of. He saw something in me, in my writing, and he challenged me to go after it. He was patient and kind and understanding. And he always followed through.

Without really having to explain, he understood my vision. He “got” my work. I’ve never felt so understood as a writer before or since. I really miss having that. But, I’m so glad I had the opportunity to know Robin, and to have had his brilliant influence in my life for the short time I did know him. I hope that someday when I’m established I’ll be able to pass along the understanding and support that he gave to me.

Robin passed away in May 2007.

“True understanding is the spur of genius.” – Ursula LeGuin, Writer