Makalla McPherson, a dynamic and versatile creative individual hailing from the vibrant city of London, has left an indelible mark on the realms of theatre, television, and film. Through her multifaceted talents, encompassing both writing and directing, she has brought numerous projects to life, including her inaugural play "When the Lights Go Out", which made its triumphant debut at The Oval Theatre in 2018.
Makalla's professional journey has been marked by the privilege of receiving valuable guidance from esteemed industry professionals, enabling her to hone her skills and gain a deeper understanding of the television production process.
She had the unique opportunity to work on the set of BBC Drama's critically acclaimed series "What Remains," where she was mentored by the highly respected and accomplished director Coky Giedroyc.
This experience not only allowed Makalla to refine her craft, but also provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the inner workings of television production, granting her a valuable perspective that has undoubtedly served her well in her subsequent endeavors.
Makalla's exceptional abilities and potential were identified and acknowledged through her selection for the prestigious The Creative Diversity Network scheme, a program that provided her with the ideal platform to hone her craft and amplify her presence within the industry.
Under the expert guidance of esteemed Executive Producer Sarah Brown, Makalla underwent a period of refinement, where she skillfully honed her writing and directing skills, thereby elevating her artistic expression and broadening her professional network.
This esteemed opportunity not only served as a catalyst for unlocking new doors and pathways, but also empowered Makalla to develop her skills as a writer and director, ultimately allowing her to flourish as a creative force within the industry.
Makalla has amassed a impressive repertoire of work as a director, having successfully helmed numerous television dramas that have garnered widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards in recent years. Notably, she directed the popular BBC series "Waterloo Road", which has become a staple of British television. Furthermore, her impressive skillset has been showcased in her work as both main and second unit director on Shondaland's highly acclaimed Netflix series "Queen Charlotte", which received widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards in 2023, cementing its place as a standout in the world of television.
In addition to her work on "Queen Charlotte", Makalla has also demonstrated her versatility as a director by taking on the adaptation of Candice Carty-Williams' best-selling novel "Queenie" for Disney, Channel 4, and Onyx. This ambitious project showcases her ability to balance creative vision with commercial appeal, resulting in a captivating and engaging viewing experience for audiences worldwide.
Makalla's remarkable professional background boasts a notable achievement in directing an episode of the second series of the newly revamped "Dr. Who" series, which stars the highly acclaimed Ncuti Gatwa.
Her multifaceted talents as a director have enabled her to take on a diverse array of projects, encompassing television dramas as well as film adaptations.
As her career continues to unfold and progress, it will undoubtedly be thrilling to observe the exciting developments and creative endeavors that lie ahead for this incredibly gifted writer and director.
