New Aussie Play, New Sydney Theatre Venue

Neveen Hanna and Michael Wood appear in the new Australian play The Future Seekers, premiering at a new venue from 20 April. Here they talk about the play, their roles and performing in the theatre.

A Russian prisoner and his guard play chess in 1917, young love blossoms at the Melbourne Cup in the ‘30s,  the Vietnam War creeps into a school play in the ‘60s, two Olympic athletes flirt at the L.A. airport… a girl in a wheelchair, a dedicated teacher, a court mediator, a love-weary girl and a young man in an old house. 
All are connected through time, travel, history and bloodline in a new play by Carol Dance. 

Neveen: You seem to be switching from one character to the next in 8 out of the 10 scenes with little time in between; how do handle this transition and get into each character?

Michael: It is actually a thrill. As soon as I come off stage, I put on the costume as my next character would, so it gives me the very little time I have to take that character on and get in their mindset. It is really fun playing so many different roles, so I’m embracing the opportunity.

N: Which is the easiest and which is the hardest character to play and why?

M: This is a tricky one. I guess the easiest would be Michael in scene 4. And not just because we have the same name. He’s a bit a lovable goof ball, and for some reason that comes fairly easily for me. The hardest would probably be Alexander in scene 1, because he is a British aristocrat in a Russian jail in 1917, so his world is the least like mine. It has been fun exploring that, and it has certainly taken a lot of thought about what is exactly going through his mind.

N: What does this play mean to you?

M: This play has made me think a lot about my family, and where I come from. Each scene and each character leaves somewhat of a legacy and this play highlights that yes, we are on this planet for a certain amount of time, but the effect we have can last much longer. I think about the pride I have in carrying on my family name and the people who have gone before me. They have made a difference on me and how I see the world, so I’ve thought about how I can have a positive impact on future generations. Gosh, that got pretty deep all of a sudden.

N: What is your favourite scene or aspect of the play?

M: I love the variety of characters and scenes in the play. There is something in there for everyone, whether someone can recognise their aunt, a teacher they once had, or an old friend. Before there is time to get bored or sick of a character, we’re onto the next scene!

N: What do you aspire to achieve as an actor?

M: I guess like most actors, to get the opportunity to work on great plays and scripts, and to be in work. There are many stages I would love to perform on in Australia, as well of course the big and small screen.  Now my questions for you!

M: This is a new Australian play, however you have worked on parts of it before, how has it been approaching this work again?

N: There is only one scene in this production that i have performed previously and it is so different. The chemistry and energy of it is different, the location and setting, stage direction and part it plays in the context of the whole production makes it a completely different experience.

M: I would describe this play as being episodic as opposed to being completely linear, how do you see the ten scenes being linked over the 100 year setting?

N:  They are an interesting concept. Very unpredictable and complex in the way they have been linked. Its going to be a good challenge for everyone that comes to see the play to figure out how the characters are connected and related.  They will need to be very attentive!! However each scene stands on its own as an enjoyable story to get involved in and reflect upon.

M: Who should I invite to come and see this show?

N: Everyone! Its energetic and charming!! A good escape from the weighty issues of the world today for a couple of hours to engage in fun entertainment.

M:Do you find it challenging playing multiple roles, or does it make it easier?

N: I love it! Its an actors dream to get to play so many different types of characters. There are challenges with playing a single character and challenges playing multiple.  But playing many makes it fun and keeps things interesting.

M: What do you love about theatre?

N: The full experience of performance. The start finish and end of the life of the character engaging in the issues that matter to them.  I love the excitement of being a live performance with an audience who may respond to the story. Instant feedback!

The Future Seekers by Carol Dance, directed by Mark Langham, plays from 20-30 April at the Philharmonia Choir Studios, Walsh Bay. More info and bookings: www.futureseekers.net.au