I sat down with Writer / Producer Alexandra Shaw and Director Alasdair Linn to find out more about Where Would You Like To Start?, coming to the Drayton Arms Theatre this November.
Can you tell me a little about your show and what audiences can expect?
The play follows Frances and Jonah, Sadie and Rich, two couples, two friends. It is about the neurological and physiological impacts on us when we experience confusing or empowering behaviour from our loved ones. And investigating this in therapy. It is only theatre that can present characters’ physiological experiences live – and hopefully evoke them in the audience too.
In all, Where Would You Like To Start? is a hard, humorous, and hopeful play.
What drew you to this specific story?
There’s a free-fall that can come with differing life stages, and at times conversations can take on veneers rather than continue camaraderie from youth. Alongside romantic relationships, I wanted to observe nuances in female friendships and the simultaneous delicacy and strength of engaging with therapy, and the possible range of catalytic consequences if it is overheard.
I wrote exploring precipices – how much is enough, how far is too far, do you ever really know another’s truth and how to share yours.
What has been the biggest challenge in bringing this production to life?
Scheduling! Although what would a production be without it and we’re working with a special, brilliant team.
How does the design of your show (set, sound, or lighting) impact the presentation of your story?
Naturalistic light and sound, design based in greenery and candlelight, and original music all aim towards a central feeling of tenderness in the production.
If you could sum up the show in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?
Trust, because the play predominantly explores what it is and what does it take to trust in yourself, in your relationships, in your perceptions.
Where Would You Like To Start? runs at the Drayton Arms Theatre, London, on 3 – 7 November. Tickets available at https://www.thedraytonarmstheatre.co.uk/where-would-you-like-to-start
