Catrina’s Blog
Catrina McHugh MBE is the Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Open Clasp Theatre Company.
A multi-award-winning playwright, she has dedicated her career to making theatre with women and young people on the margins of society. Her work gives voice to those often unheard, shaping stories into powerful productions that challenge injustice and create change.
In this blog, Catrina shares reflections from the rehearsal room, insights into her creative process, and the political and personal moments that fuel her writing. From behind-the-scenes glimpses to wider commentary on feminism, activism, and community, her posts offer a deeply personal look at the heart and craft of socially engaged theatre.
Guest Blog – Why Women in Prison Deserve Better
Why women in prison deserve better: reflections sparked by Rupture When I watched Rupture, more…
Guest Blog – Why Women in Prison Deserve Better
Why women in prison deserve better: reflections sparked by Rupture When I watched Rupture, more…
Review of year 2025
Our year began with a sprinkle of change, a new year, new jobs, babies and…
Review of year 2025
Our year began with a sprinkle of change, a new year, new jobs, babies and…
‘How do you create a narrative that is survivor led and not victim in its storytelling?’
I’ve ran workshops with Open Clasp for 26yrs and this is my happy place. Women…
‘How do you create a narrative that is survivor led and not victim in its storytelling?’
I’ve ran workshops with Open Clasp for 26yrs and this is my happy place. Women…
One Year Ends and Another Begins
Auld Lang Syne ‘for old times sake’ referring to a shared past that underpins current…
One Year Ends and Another Begins
Auld Lang Syne ‘for old times sake’ referring to a shared past that underpins current…
After a Fall
I fell. It was the last day of a big moment here in Aotearoa New…
After a Fall
I fell. It was the last day of a big moment here in Aotearoa New…
A Blog From a Special Place
Art work by Hana Rawhiti-Clarke The day before we leave Wellington we walk with one…
A Blog From a Special Place
Art work by Hana Rawhiti-Clarke The day before we leave Wellington we walk with one…
The Embassy Theatre – Wellington, Aotearoa/New Zealand
I was nervous, the theatre lush and art deco. The collective gather, Catherine and I…
The Embassy Theatre – Wellington, Aotearoa/New Zealand
I was nervous, the theatre lush and art deco. The collective gather, Catherine and I…
Mycelial: What is it about?
We have just come back from London and there was feedback on the pitch of…
Mycelial: What is it about?
We have just come back from London and there was feedback on the pitch of…
Mycelial Film tour, the story so far…
I’m talking to Carly and Ellie, our Senior Creative Producer and joint CEO. Both have…
Mycelial Film tour, the story so far…
I’m talking to Carly and Ellie, our Senior Creative Producer and joint CEO. Both have…