London Horror Festival 2021
INTERVIEW
Gabrielle MacPherson
Outside
October 20 & 21
pleasance.co.uk
A dark secret is about to come to light, Willa’s attempt at freedom can lead to nothing but more horrific revelations.
Hi Gabrielle, thanks for talking to The New Current, how have you been holding up during these very strange times?
It has absolutely been really strange and sometimes difficult. Our whole industry has had a really difficult time with it. There has been one thing of absolute joy in these strange times which is the sense of community throughout the industry, the support and openness throughout the last 18 months have been something to really hold on to.
Has this time provided you with any new creative inspiration or opportunities?
As someone who normally be working 5,6,7 days a week the forced time off gave me lots of time to skill up, write lots and take part in workshops and talks I would never normally have the time or opportunity to do. Which has been incredible.
What does it mean to you to be bringing your new show Outside to the London Horror Festival 2021, are there be any nerves ahead of your run?
It means the absolute world. This will be the first time it’s performed in front of an audience. I was lucky enough to perform it at The Space in February through a live stream and now I get to perform again in front of an audience? It’s so brilliant!
There are of course some nerves but the team behind Outside is brilliant and we have had such a wonderful process, we are really lucky!
Can you tell me a little bit about Outside, what was the inspiration behind your new show?
Outside is about a woman who hasn't left her house on her own before until now. We meet Willa in a witness protection suite and find out why she’s there!
What were the biggest challenges you faced bringing Outside to the stage?
We would always love more time to work on a play but we have done so much in the time we have had we are really excited for people to meet Willa!
"I love being in the theatre whether that’s performing, going to see shows, rehearsing, it’s such a magical place!"
Have you always had a passion for theatre?
I have been performing since I was little so yes. I love being in the theatre whether that’s performing, going to see shows, rehearsing, it’s such a magical place!
How has your approach to your shows changed since starting out?
Outside is the first solo play I have written and performed which is definitely a new experience and I have learnt a lot. It has helped me develop as both a writer and performer in many ways whether it’s through solo work or in ensemble work!
What's the best piece of advice you would offer fellow theatre-makers?
Read plays and see theatre if you have the opportunity!
And, finally, what do you hope your audiences will take away from Outside?
It asks a huge question, ‘Is revenge ever justified?’. It’s not one I want them to find an answer to but one to think about and mull over with the specifics of Willa’s story!