Jean Poiret’s effervescent comedy lands on the London stage through this new adaptation running at the Riverside Studios for the whole next month. Guillermo Nazara chats with its lead actress, to learn all the fun facts about this play dealing with the clashes between French and British cultures, penned by the same author who gave us La Cage Aux Folles, and where faux pas moments come à la carte.
How does it feel to star in the London scene through the work of one of the greatest French dramaturgs of the last century?
Bringing to life a play by Jean Poiret, especially in an English version is a wonderful opportunity! Poiret is known for his sharp wit and humour, which can add a delightful layer to the comedy when exploring Franco-British cultural clashes.
French glamour against British eccentricity. It sounds like the perfect recipe for a truly explosive comedy, don’t you think?
Absolutely! The clash between French glamour and British eccentricity creates a delightful dynamic full of humour and charm. The sophisticated elegance of French culture juxtaposed with the quirky nature of British antics can lead to some hilarious situations. Characters from both backgrounds encounter misunderstandings, culture shocks, and unexpected alliances…
As a French performer treading the British boards, how accurate do you find this depiction of both cultures is?
In France, theatre often emphasises a deep appreciation for the classics, with a strong focus on language, poetic elements, and philosophical themes.
In contrast, British theatre tends to embrace a more diverse range of styles and narratives, often emphasising realism and contemporary issues. British audiences appreciate wit, humour, and relatability, while the emphasis on strong character development and dynamic storytelling can lead to captivating performances that resonate on a personal level.
This cultural exchange provides a rich tapestry for any performer. While the foundations of both cultures share a reverence for storytelling, the nuances in performance styles, audience expectations, and thematic focus create an exciting challenge. I find myself continually learning and evolving as I embrace the vitality of both traditions.
Do you find anything stereotypical in its delivery?
Yes, I do believe that there are certain stereotypes that can emerge in the delivery of both French and British theatrical performances. These stereotypes can sometimes influence how actors portray characters or how productions are received by audiences.
For instance, in French theatre, there can be a tendency to portray characters with a certain romanticism or existential depth, often drawing on cultural notions of passion. This can sometimes lead to performances that feel overly dramatic or introspective, reinforcing the stereotype of the “brooding French artist.”
On the other hand, British theatre might lean into stereotypes of dry humour, wit, and understatement. Performers may feel pressured to deliver lines with a specific cadence or to embody characters with a stiff upper lip, which can occasionally detract from the emotional core of their performances. This can perpetuate the notion of the reserved Brit. The juxtaposition of these two cultures leads to humorous misunderstandings and rich character interactions.
The piece is an adaptation of Poiret’s original play. Are there any core differences with the source material? What’s new in this version?
This adaptation takes a bold leap by relocating the story from Paris to Basingstoke. The songs, music and lyrics have been recomposed by Leo Elso – they are not only very uplifting but full of humour. Furthermore, the Franco-British twist introduces a captivating interplay of language lapses, cultural humour, and character clashes that significantly enrich the storytelling.
How, would you say, a plot set in 1977 will still resonate with contemporary audiences?
Despite its 1977 setting, the plot remains deeply relevant to modern audiences, as it explores universal themes of rebellion, battle of ego, feminism, power and money. It is theatre in the theatre exploring human relationships and that is timeless.
Has this play brought you any particular challenges as a performer?
Acting in English is a challenge. Finding the character’s voice in a language that is not mine and the rhythm of her speech.
Do you think there’s some message this work (or this adaptation) is trying to convey?
The message is a love letter to the theatre.
Why come and see French Toast?
Because it offers an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, levity, and the delightful cultural clashes between the French and the British. With engaging lyrics and playful dynamics, the audience will surely walk away singing and smiling.
All rehearsal pictures credit to Lidia Crisafulli.
French Toast will play at London’s Riverside Studios from 3 to 26 October. Tickets are available on the following link.
Help us continue our work
We count on your support to keep bringing the greatest quality in theatre-related content, from interviews with the biggest names in the industry to reviews of every show in town and beyond.
We appreciate every donation to maintain our high pace and standards and continue to grow.
Thank you for believing in us!
***************************************************