Michael Cox speaks with Liam Rudden about his latest Fringe production.
Liam
Rudden is a stalwart of Edinburgh’s theatre scene. Not only has he been active
on the Fringe for some time but works as an editor for the Evening News. His
latest production, Thief, has already gotten excellent reviews and word-of-mouth
and is here for the month. I had a quick word with him about the production.
Michael Cox: I usually hate asking where the idea for a play came from, so I’ll try a different approach: did the idea come from your interest in Genet, or did your interest in Genet inform the shape of the play?
Liam Rudden: Really, it was my fascination with Genet's outlook on life that inspired me to write Thief, which is an original story. I drew on imagery from Rainer Werner Fassbinder's1982 cinematic adaptation of Querelle of Brest, and Genet's novel Thief's Journal to create a setting that could be anywhere, at anytime, peopled with those society likes to ignore... at their peril.
MC: Where did your interest in Jean Genet come from?
LR: Watching Fassbinder's movie back in the 80s introduced me to (his work). I find his honesty and, at times, brutal style refreshing.
MC: Thief has already performed twice, I believe. How has it evolved between initial rehearsal and in its current state?
LR: For Edinburgh, I have reworked the final scene. It is now even more powerful and takes no prisoners.
MC: What was the largest discovery you made when it was first performed before an audience?
LR: I was slightly surprised by just how open audiences are to a piece of theatre that tackles exceedingly disturbing topics. It's not an easy watch. I thought we'd have walkouts. No one has so far.
MC: Any recent discoveries?
LR: I am rehearsing an Alternative Sailor at the moment and have discovered so many new facets of the character. I work quite organically, so every Sailor will be completely different.
MC: Where did the character Sailor come from?
LR: Sailor is a nod and a wink to a friend who is no longer with
us. I always said I would immortalise him for the stage. Some are his stories,
some are stories I have collected over the years. The character has become much
more likeable than I ever imagined he could be.
MC: Final question. Is there anything you’re looking forward to with this run?
LR: I'm looking forward to a holiday in September.
Thief performs at Hill Street Solo Theatre from July 31-August 24 (not 12) at 2130.
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