I sat down with Rosie Dalton to find out more about Private Lives coming to The Old Red Lion Theatre this November.

Can you tell me a little about your show and what audiences can expect?

It’s a fresh take on the classic comedy bringing Coward’s sharp wit, glamour and chaos into the colourful world of the 1980s – big hair, iconic music, questionable fashion and even more questionable decisions!

What drew you to this specific story?

‘Private Lives’ is a truly brilliantly written play. As a group, we are particularly drawn to comedy – who doesn’t want to have a fun night out at the theatre? 

We were attracted to it straight away as a perfect four-hander for our first performance as a company. We knew we could inject something new into it by setting it in the 1980’s – it gives us so much to work with! 

What has been the biggest challenge in bringing this production to life?

Producing ‘Private Lives’ has been a lot of fun, but it’s also been incredibly difficult. There’s an awful lot to do. I’d say the hardest part for us has been putting our lives on hold to dedicate as much time as possible to the piece.

Whether that’s negotiating with managers, turning down nights out, or going radio silence on partners and friends, we’ve had to sacrifice a lot to do this production…but it’s absolutely worth it!

How does the design of your show (set, sound, or lighting) impact the presentation of your story?

We are pretty limited with our staging of ‘Private Lives’. We have a tiny stage – which has actually been incredibly helpful in establishing spacial relations and thinking about proximity. If anything it’s been more useful than having the freedom and space to play around. Sound massively impacts our story.

Originally set in the 20’s, our choice to set it in the 80’s is carried by the music we play throughout the show. It adds a layer of playfulness and fun to the story, and of course gives it an air of nostalgia for the audience.

If you could sum up the show in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?

To sum ‘Private Lives’ by Roaring Screaming Productions in one word – EXPLOSIVE.

Private Lives runs at The Old Red Lion Theatre, London, on 5 – 8 November. Tickets available at https://weareoldred.co.uk/whats-on/private-lives/