Trying to describe my time at First Bite is about as hard as stuffing nearly five years of lovely memories into a single paragraph! I remember when we did the 20th Anniversary, so I can’t believe it’s already the 25th! There is so much about this group that I cherish – lasting friendships, boosts in confidence and creativity, and gaining invaluable skills in patience, respect and teamwork.

Even though I hadn’t been part of the group for as long as some other members (who had been there since they were practically infants), I never felt apart. From the moment I joined, First Bite has proven that nobody is a stranger for long. Everyone becomes part of the family, and it certainly feels like a reunion when we come back to see shows, long after we have left. I’ll never forget the joy and laughter of Amore Complicato, and the thrill of rattling off that Stoppard speech in my last ever End of Year show. I now know how important this group was during my teenage years. Creating our own plays was an amazing part of it – nothing beats the excitement of making up characters, seeing them develop through the year, and then the pride of it all coming together in the end! A little metaphor for First Bite, perhaps, with Rebecca being the patient and creative force that helps us find our light. I have so much respect for what Rebecca has achieved, a testament to her encouragement and perseverance. Much love and congratulations!

Katya Bacica (2010-2015)