The actress is currently starring in English Touring Theatre’s production of Sam Holocroft’s Rules for Living. Love London Love Culture spoke to her about the production and her character Nicole.
Hi Laura, for those who aren’t familiar with the play, could you tell me a bit more about what it is about?
It’s about a family on Christmas day. I’m not sure I need to say much more than that because I’m sure many people can relate to it. Everyone has the best intentions to make an effort to really get on but it doesn’t quite work out as anticipated.
What can you tell me about your character Nicole?
Nicole is married to Adam and they have a daughter called Emma. Things between Adam and Nicole are strained which becomes clear as the story develops. She’s strong, stubborn, organised, very sharp and doesn’t suffer fools.
What attracted you most about the play?
When I read the script I found it hilarious and could see how satisfying it would be to play. There are many technical challenges that the play brings and I enjoy giving myself challenges and hoping they will pay off!
How do you feel this compares to some of the other work you have done on stage?
It’s very different to most of the other work that I have done, the only thing I could compare it to was a play I did at the Orange Tree Theatre this year; which was also a domestic family comedy/drama set on Christmas Day.
What do you think audiences might appreciate about the play or the production?
I hope they’ll appreciate the comedy – I think it’s definitely a fun night out. We all have a lot of fun. Hopefully (although it is technically very difficult) if we do it well, it should look simple.
If you had the choice – which other character from the play would you have liked to have played and why?
I think I’d like to play Edith – the mother-in-law of Nicole. She has some of the funniest lines and Jane Booker who plays her is wonderful – although it’s often very difficult to keep a straight face!
How are you feeling about touring around with the production?
The company are getting on so well and we are spending a lot of time laughing .We are going to lovely theatres and it’s so surprising to see how different audiences react in different venues.
What did you think when you first read the script?
Hilarious
If you had to sum up the play in three words – what would they be?
Rules for Living.
Is there a role you would love to play after doing this?
I say it time and time again to every director I work with – I want to play Sally Bowles in Cabaret. I’m really hoping if I keep nagging eventually someone will give in!
Massive thank you to Laura for answering these questions. English Touring Theatre’s production of Rules for Living is on tour now until the 18th November. For more information on venues and to book tickets visit: https://www.ett.org.uk/whats-on/rules-for-living/details