We chatted to Ned about starring in the revival of of Philip Ridley’s The Pitchfork Disney at the King’s Head Theatre.
Hi Ned, for those not familiar with ‘The Pitchfork Disney’ what can they expect? It’s an exhilarating play that is relentless in its energy and emotion from start to finish. It’s
exhausting, devastating and confronting, and one of the most exciting plays I’ve ever been a part of.
What attracted you to wanting to be part of this production? Getting the opportunity to be directed by Max (Harrison) again, especially on another Philip Ridley play. He’s an incredible director who always gets the best out of everyone he works with, and the
way he works has such an affinity with Phil’s writing, which needless to say is phenomenal and always so evocative.
How have you found the experience of working on the production so far? It’s been a joy, and a lot of hard work. The cast are absolutely incredible! Getting to act with
Lizzie, Will and Matt each day has been a dream. Particularly as the play is very demanding both physically and emotionally, it’s so exciting to come in each day and act alongside such a talented company of actors of this calibre.
How does it feel to be reuniting with Lidless? Amazing! It’s such a close knit theatre company, that always produces such timely, and confrontational theatre of such high quality. Kit, Zoe and Max work together so well, and always bring such a communal feel to each production. They’re one of the most exciting theatre companies in the industry at the moment.
What can you tell us about your character Presley? Presley is a shut-in who has lived at home with his twin sister for 10 years, only leaving to goto the corner shop to get essentials, and their drug of choice… chocolate.
Why do you recommend that people come along to see ‘The Pitchfork Disney’? It’s a genre defining play, which is highly confronting and cautionary at a time where theatre
needs to be. Phil’s writing always forces the audience to actively engage with the story, and constantly challenges their assumptions regarding the characters and the choices they make. His words are as relevant today as they were in 1991.
By Emma Clarendon
The Pitchfork Disney continues to play at the King’s Head Theatre until the 4th October.