We chatted to Matthew about starring in Alan Bennett’s Habeas Corpus at the Menier Chocolate Factory.

Hi Matthew, for those who don’t know what Habeas Corpus is about – what can you tell us about
it? Habeas Corpus is an Alan Bennett farce set in the 1970s. It’s central themes are sex and death.
Trying to get enough of the first before we inevitably succumb to the second.

What made you want to be in this production? Firstly, I love Alan Bennett. Secondly the chance to play a randy vicar in a farce is not to be sniffed at.Thirdly, I have always been a big fan of Patrick Marber and have wanted to work with him for years.

Could you tell me more about your character Canon? Cannon Throbbing is as you may be able to tell from the name, a Cannon, who is desperate or throbbing to both marry and ‘break his duck’. He is bit of a letch and great fun to play.

How have rehearsals been going so far? Rehearsals have been great fun and we have been laughing a lot. Patrick has assembled such a talented cast. They are a joy to work with!

What have you enjoyed the most about being part of this production so far? It is lovely to be back at The Menier as I had such a lovely time working here previously. I am very grateful to be working in the theatre again after lockdown and doing a play which is so silly and funny and where we spend most of the days laughing.

By Emma Clarendon

Habeas Corpus plays at the Menier Chocolate Factory from the 3rd December until the 26th February 2022.