When she's not directing, Nadia also consumes cocktails professionally

Grecian Nadia Papachronopoulou is the founder of fresh theatre company PapaC Productions, where she produces and directs plays that aim to be as exciting as exploding fireworks. She shakes the dust off old classics and workshops new writing, creating theatre with a punch and surreal twist.

Nadia has worked in many of London’s leading fringe venues, including the Orange Tree Theatre, King’s Head Theatre and Hen and Chicken Theatre.

She is currently directing and producing Clam & Honey/Baby at the White Bear Theatre from the 16th of February until the 7th of March.

Have you always wanted to be a director?

Actually I wanted to be an actress; it’s still theatre related but rather than being behind the curtain I would have been on the front line!

How did you get to where you are today and would you do anything differently?

I studied drama at university and then went on to do a directorship program at the Kings Head Theatre, where I assistant directed a lot of shows. It was then that I really started to love the art of directing. After travelling around Asia for nine months I realised that I wanted to start up my own theatre company, so that I could produce and direct plays I felt passionate about. I don’t think I would have done anything differently as I made a lot of mistakes but hopefully that has helped for my next steps.

Who helped you along the way?

My parents and family have been amazingly supportive, especially having a psychic as an aunt who always says that my future will be bright! My friends helped and encouraged me too – in particular Alexia and Ellie; without them I would not have had the guts to set up my own company.

Who inspires you?

Vivien Leigh for her determination and glamour; Salvador Dali for his creative genius; Edith Piaf for her courage and my Mum for her patience.

The cast of Housewives of the 1950s at the White Bear Theatre.

What do you think is the biggest problem in Greek society today and what is the most positive thing?

The biggest problem is the economy as the minimum wage is not enough to sustain a good standard of living – a coffee costs five euros! Of course the greatest aspect of Greece is its vast history and beautiful islands.

One play that you’d love to direct?

The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka.

Do you feel British, Greek or European?

European.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Edith Piaf, Lady Gaga and The Arctic Monkeys.

Why don’t more young people go to the theatre? And what might encourage them to go?

I think they find it to expensive and elitist, but I think that fringe theatre is great – encouraging young people with its quirky charm. It feels so personal as the audience is part of the show because of the small venues. You can practically touch the actors!

Honey/Baby at the Hen and Chicken Theatre

What couldn’t you live without?

Cocktails, laughter, cupcakes and friends.

Dream purchase?

Shoes!  Louboutin, Marni and YSL please.

Is there an actor that you’d really like to work with?

Johnny Depp. Except that I think I would be too star struck as he is so beautiful.

Favourite movie?

That is so hard, Donnie Darko and Amelie are favourites but I also love old classics like Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Some Like it Hot.

Do you think that creative professions in the UK have been affected by the recession?

The Arts Council funding is more of a challenge to obtain, but I think it is easier to find cheaper venues to put on shows.

Favourite European city and why?

Paris, for its romantic charm.

How do you stay motivated?

I aim high and strive to achieve my goals and I am never satisfied until I do!

Favourite playwright?

Deborah Levy as she is a true original.

Honey/Baby at the Hen and Chicken Theatre

Desert island book?

Catcher in the Rye I have read it about 50 times. I am in love with Holden Caulfield.

Why did you choose to direct plays, rather than films?

As theatre is live and immediate, you get a special feeling watching the audience respond to something you have created.

Favourite bar?

Anywhere that serves cocktails.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Hopefully continuing with my theatre company and working with talented people. I wouldn’t mind having a show at the National Theatre or wining an Olivier though.

Can you run in heels?

Yes, I am always running around and it helps having pretty shoes on!