Love London Love Culture’s Emma Clarendon spoke to Laura Pitt-Pulford about her current role in The Gronholm Method at the Menier Chocolate Factory.
Could you tell me a bit about what audiences can expect from The Gronholm Method? I would describe this play as a witty, psychological thriller. It keeps the audience constantly on the edge of their seat, right until the very last line. It is shocking and even appalling to see quite how ruthless these characters can be at times.
What were your first impressions of the play? After reading it for the first time I immediately read it again. I found it thrilling and challenging. I hadn’t read anything quite like it before.
What was the deciding factor that made you want to be involved with the production? I was intrigued by the whole piece and the concept of it. The whole corporate world is so alien and fascinating to me. Although there is an underlying hunger there which can often be found in actors too. Hopefully no audition will ever be quite as brutal as this play though.
Could you tell me a bit more about your character Melanie and how she fits into the story? Melanie is a very strong, determined woman who doesn’t suffer fools gladly. She is the the only woman in the piece (which she immediately comments on within the first 5 minutes). From her 1st entrance you know she is a force to be reckoned with and she continues to surprise you along the way with choices she has to make.
What would you say the relevance of the play is in 2018? This play was written in 2003 and we have moved on an incredible amount since then, especially with some of the issues that we cover within the piece. I’d say it’s mostly relevant and pertinent to how far people will go to get what they want in an incredibly competitive society of 2018, where everyone is seeking perfection.
What would you say is the main reason that people should pop along and see The Gronholm Method? It is 90 minutes of pure, thrilling entertainment. It goes at such a pace and keeps you constantly guessing. As an audience member I imagine you’ll feel as exhausted as we do by the end. In a good way, I hope!
By Emma Clarendon
The Gronholm Method will continue to play at the Menier Chocolate Factory until the 7th July. For more information visit: https://www.menierchocolatefactory.com/