We sat down with Kellie Shirley who stars in Greenwich Theatre’s home-grown production of Jez Butterworth’s Parlour Song running until 24th May.
- How does it feel to be part of the first major London revival of Parlour Song? What excites you about this production?
I absolutely LOVE this play. It’s rarely done so that makes it feel like it’s ours. I’ve been a fan of Jez Butterworth’s writing since I saw his play Jerusalem well over a decade ago – it was 3 hours long and I didn’t get bored once… this play is half of that, at 80 mins no interval and is a real hidden gem. It’s a 3 hander and I play the only female character – Joy. She’s a bored housewife looking for excitement, who is partial to a few lies!
- Can you talk about your preparation process for bringing Joy’s character to life on stage?
Like Joy, I’ve been married for quite a while now, so I understand what it’s like to be in a long relationship. Luckily for me, I still fancy my husband – unlike Joy! She’s so fed up and seeks thrills. Delving back into 2009 has been important for me (when the play is set) to get a feel for it – what the character might have seen at the Cinema… (My Sister’s Keeper, The Time Traveller’s Wife, The Lovely Bones) and the Music in the charts – Lady Gaga’s ‘Poker Face’ Cheryl Cole… it all helps me feed into the period. The biggest process is line learning though – now my twins are 9 I ask them to test me! Although, there are some scenes they can’t read – (we’ve given it a 15 certificate!).
- How do you balance the comedic and dramatic elements of this play?
This play is comedy gold – it’s dry and a bit naughty in places and has everything really – gritty, dramatic, funny.. a real whirlwind. Nav who plays my husband, is so naturally funny, he’s had us all in stitches – it’s not played for laughs though – that’s the key, I guess – the truth…
- In your opinion, what makes live theatre so unique compared to other forms of acting, like TV or film?
It’s (nowadays) a rare moment where no one is on their bloody phone and it’s bloody lovely because of it – to be truly immersed in something, present. Theatre gives you this experience. I hate it when watching telly and scrolling happens you’re not then in it – at least with live theatre and comedy it’s about being in the moment. It’s also important to support the local theatre – it’s important for the community – to share an experience as human beings – you can’t beat it.
- What do you hope the audience will take away from Parlour Song? Is there a particular theme or message that you find especially resonant?
It’s definitely a play that makes you think about relationships, life and will open up discussions with your mates… and like I said, the great thing about this particular play is, it’s super quick so you can be in the pub by 9pm to do just that! You’ll have to come along and tell me what you think!?