SALLY Parkinson is perhaps best known as a local photographer taking portraits of people, wedding shots and rehearsal pictures for local community drama groups.

But occasionally she has been known to step out from behind the lens and tread the boards herself.

Sally's latest theatrical adventure is the Orpen Players' Funny Money, which runs at the Orpen Hall, Lexden Road, West Bergholt, from tomorrow until Saturday, May 26 to 28. Doors will open 7.30pm for an 8pm start.

Tickets are priced £6 for tomorrow and £7 for Friday and Saturday, and are available by calling 01206 241048 or on-line at orpenplayers.co.uk

What or who got you interested theatre? Did you take part in any productions at school?

I think I only got as far as being a tree at school! I decided to join the Sheringham Players in Norfolk as I'd recently moved to the area and thought it would be a good social thing to do. I was right, I went along and the group were lovely. I took part in many productions there, and the post rehearsal pub visits of course.

Are or were any members of your immediate family involved in the theatre?

No, my Mum has always loved the theatre but no one has actually taken part in productions. My nieces and nephews enjoy their drama groups so maybe they'll be treading the boards when they're older.

Who is the most inspiring person you’ve worked with and why?

I learned a lot from Suzanne Bailey from Chameleon's Web Theatre Group and Kerry King. I've been directed by both of them and loved the way they explored characters and situations.

What formal training have you done?

Absolutely none!

Do you have any specialist skills – anything from stilt walking to dress-making – which you work into your repertoire?

Well I can use a sewing machine but I've chosen to keep that quiet. My photography of theatre started by me taking a few photographs from the wings and now that's become my speciality, but not when I'm in a play of course.

Which experience/role do you regard as the highlight of your career to date?

I played Mim in Outside Edge. I'm grateful to Dave King who cast me in this production, my first with the Colchester theatre Group. I loved the role, I'd do it again tomorrow.

What has been your most embarrassing moment on stage?

Well it should have been stripping off in Calendar Girls but actually that was more liberating. Probably in the early days when I made a quick exit and took the door with me.

Which actor (s) performer (s) do you most admire and why?

I do like Suranne Jones, I thought her role in Dr Foster was incredibly convincing.

What role would you most like to play and why?

I don't have a specific role in mind, these days I enjoy a play which is fun and light hearted. Life can be too serious sometimes so it's good to have a bit of silliness.

Ever corpsed on stage? What happened?

Never actually on stage thankfully, I've corpsed many times in rehearsals though. Once I start giggling I can't stop, sometimes it's not even that funny.

Any big plans for the future?

Nope, I just hope to enjoy theatre for years to come.

Any tricks for remembering your lines or other useful tips to pass on to other actors/directors?

I wish there was a quick way. In the early days I could remember lines and be word perfect very quickly. These days it takes a lot more work and plenty of practice. The best way for me is line runs with the rest of the cast, it helps you to pick up on cues quickly too.