Lydia Larson: 11 questions
Punk rock was the musical war cry of rebellious youth in the ’70s. It was a tuneful way of sticking up two fingers to the establishment. So what better way to score a new version of Electra, starring Lydia Larson, than with the guitar-heavy music of dissent? Why’s it so perfect? Because Electra is a play about angry youth. The title role, played by Larson, is the daughter of a broken marriage. And by broken, we mean her mother had her father killed before ruling the country with her new lover. Electra’s brother was exiled and has grown up waiting for the right time to return. Both want to take bloody revenge. They couldn’t be more punk if they were wearing safety pins and swearing at the Queen. Lydia Larson tells us more about the updated Greek drama coming to The Bunker: [caption id="attachment_278049" align="alignnone" width="300"]
Lydia Larson in rehearsal for Electra at The Bunker (Image: Lidia Crisafulli. Courtesy of Chloe Nelkin PR)[/caption]
How would you describe this version of Electra?
Anarchic, vital, raw, violent, messy.
Why do you think this story continues to be told?
It’s a story about a family. Then you have all the blood, revenge, power, desire, ambition and thrilling epic-ness. It’s a female-driven story and we still aren’t seeing enough of these. It’s so basic, but, yeah, MORE PLEASE! But not in 10 years’ time, right now! Okay, next question…
What does the music bring to this production?
David Hewson, the musical director, is a genius. His score brings so much energy, charge, drama and atmosphere, which works brilliantly with John [Ward]’s punk-rock adaptation. It is so integral to the action I can’t imagine it without live music.
You play the title character. How would you describe her?
Electra is the ultimate antihero. She is fierce, razor sharp and relentlessly driven.
What has surprised you most during rehearsals?
We had the most incredible session with movement director Rachel Drazek. She was amazing and got me thinking about so much. About the character, the play and a load of other stuff, too. It was like a deep cleanse. A total revelation and I’m still thinking about it!
How do you feel about performing at The Bunker?
I performed in Isley Lynn’s Skin A Cat, which was The Bunker’s inaugural show, so I’m delighted to be returning as I feel like I’ve been a tiny part of the theatre’s journey from the start. It’s a super-exciting space to perform in, with an excellent bar, which is really very important. [caption id="attachment_278050" align="alignnone" width="300"]
Lydia Larson in rehearsal for Electra at The Bunker (Image: Lidia Crisafulli. Courtesy of Chloe Nelkin PR)[/caption]
What was your first experience of theatre?
Watching panto at Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre.
Why is watching a live performance so special?
I love the immediacy of it. And sharing something that’s a complete one-off with a room full of strangers is exciting.
What one piece of advice would you give aspiring performers?
Don’t apologise for being here. You’ve earned it.
Apart from The Bunker, which is your favourite London theatre?
Very recently I visited the Gate Theatre for the first time and I loved it. It’s such an intimate space; I love being right up in the actors’ grill. I want to be covered in their sweat, spit and tears.
Where is your favourite place to visit in London?
I’m happiest drinking a turbo shandy with my dear friends Monty and Tim in the Montagu Pyke on Charing Cross Road. Or walking my dog, Kenny Biscuit, on Walthamstow Marshes.
What’s your top tip for a trip to the theatre?
The Marks & Spencer vine leaves are a fantastic pre-theatre snack.