We sat down for an exclusive interview with Penny who directs Birds of Passage (written by Marcia Kelson) and performed at Drayton Arms Theatre from 11-15th March. A new play exploring the complex relationship between tourism and the refugee crisis, Birds of Passage seeks to gradually expose and challenge pre-conceptions and in-built prejudices with humour, hard-hitting themes and unexpected twists.
How did you approach balancing the play’s humor with its exploration of hard-hitting themes about tourism and the refugee crisis?
The amalgamation of humour and hard-hitting themes is what makes Birds of Passage such a unique play. From the first read through of the play with the cast it was obvious that Marcia Kelson made a brilliant choice combining those two to keep the audience’s attention. From a directing point of view, it’s the only way to make a point on a serious matter without forgetting that things are never one sided. In life, even in the most tragic events, there are funny moments and that’s one of the areas this play masterfully also balances.
What unique perspective does setting the play on a Greek island like Zandros bring to the story?
Greece, due to its geographical location, has always been affected by tourism and people searching for a better life. By setting the play on a fictional Greek island the story highlights an extremely important issue that much of the world remains unaware of. Birds of Passage will transport the audience to the Greece they know – the sandy beaches, the sun, the amazing food and kind locals. At the same time though, it unfolds a reality some might not be aware of. One that unfortunately Greeks – especially the ones residing on islands close to the Turkish boarders – have been experiencing for years.
What challenges did you face in directing a play that seeks to expose and challenge preconceptions surrounding humanitarian crises?
The challenge the team had to face was making sure throughout the rehearsal period that we do the play justice without letting it bring us down. It’s never an easy process working on such themes, so we had to ensure that we bring the play and characters to life whilst also having fun.
How did you collaborate with the cast to ensure the characters authentically represent diverse perspectives on the themes of the play?
Myself and Marcia are extremely lucky to have such a brilliantly talented cast which understood from the first moment when we approached them what the play and each character needs. Their expertise together with the rehearsal period ensured we represented the play’s diversities and backgrounds, so the audience follows the story with compassion.
What do you hope audiences will take away from the unexpected twists in Birds of Passage?
I always say that one of the main reasons we create theatre should be to leave the audience thinking for a while after they exit the auditorium about a topic. In Birds of Passage the audience has a chance to travel not only to a Greek fictional island but on an emotional rollercoaster. I hope that rollercoaster takes them on an unforgettable journey.