The Fame Reporter interviewed local theatre performer Rebecca Day. Rebecca is currently starring as Basra in the new production of ‘The Turquoise Elephant’ presented by Observatory Theatre. The show is playing at Studio1 Yeerongpilly from 2 – 11 June.
WINNER! of the Griffin Award in 2015, this Year’s Most Outrageous Comedy! From multi-award winning writer Stephen Carleton and starring Amanda McErlean (The Curators) and Rebecca Day (Robert The Cat, Metro Arts) comes this black farce, bursting with ridiculous characters, cracking banter and one very enormous elephant.
As the world tilts into chaos, Basra is intent on making a difference, but what can she do? Her family thinks the best way to save the planet is to eat endangered animals and bask in the glories of the free market. Meanwhile, her aunt’s new-age lover promises them safety at an exclusive utopia. But Basra knows she has a higher calling. How many blogs does it take to save the world?
We sat down with local theatre performer Rebecca Day and talked about what enticed her to be involved in this production of The Turquoise Elephant, what she admires about her character, what she loves about creating new Australian original works and more.
What was it that sparked your interest in performing initially?
I was a very curious child who wanted to be involved in every experience I could manage. When I was in preschool I was cast as Mary in the Nativity play and I loved being a puzzle piece in the bigger picture and vessel to tell stories. In the play I also overcame my fear of talking into microphones thanks to my uncle.
Having the chance to connect with people has kept the performance spark alive.
What is the Turquoise Elephant about for those who don’t know?
The Turquoise Elephant is an absurdist comedy that is a snapshot on the world we are currently living in. We follow the Macquarie family as the find themselves at a crossroads.
The world is falling apart. If we are going to save it, action is needed. But everyone has their own ideas on how to stop climate change. The question is, whose side are you on?
What enticed you to want to audition for the Turquoise Elephant?
I have been very lucky and worked with Lachlan Driscoll and Observatory Theatre previously. When the opportunity came up to audition for this work, I was very enticed by the characters and their dynamic with each other.
These characters have strong opinions and are set in their ways. Its constant butting heads on a very present topic and to have the opportunity to play in this pressure cooker was very exciting.
What do you admire about your character Basra and what is your favourite part of the play?
What I admire most about Basra is her tenacity.
Basra hasn’t given up on our world and keeps pushing to create change and open people’s eyes to reality.
She chooses to believe and you can really see that in the actions she takes in the play. My favourite part? Oh my, there are so many to choose from. I can’t actually say my favourite part as it’s a secret but I can say, they’re might be a few spit takes from the audience in response.
Congratulations on all your success in your career thus far, how did you feel when you were the recipient of the Metro Arts and QMF’s First Step Mentorship Program as an Emerging Producer and what made you want to produce?
Thank you so much! I was very honoured to be given the opportunity to extend my skills and be given a step into the professional arts industry. I was based at QMF and the company were so welcoming and generous with us who were at the very start of our producing careers.
Producing grew from creating my own work and having a hand in the whole scope of a work.
I’m also very passionate about maintaining wellbeing in the arts and producing gave me a window to check in with creatives so that they can succeed to the best of their ability.
How did your tertiary education affect your current career progression today?
Studying at TAFE Queensland with University of Canberra created a solid foundation of skill and knowledge that has continued to help me throughout my career.
I learned the value of creating my own work from current practising artists, as well as networking with emerging artists who in turn, I ended up making new shows with.
I valued my time at TAFE and University as it created a space where I could play and take risks, giving me the confidence to go out there and own my career.
What do you love about creating new works like #MillenialGirls, Sirial Killer and #ArtistLife at Sydney Fringe Festival etc, and how does creating shows inform your work as performer?
It’s such an exciting process creating a new work as it’s a complete journey of discovery.
It starts with a seed of an idea and you are constantly challenged to reach further and build until you have this fantastic masterpiece that you were a part of. It’s also the opportunity to collaborate and employ your immensely talented friends.
Since I’ve made my own work, my approach to working with established scripts has shifted. I’m much more aware of the whole picture and the mechanics of it all. I recommend everyone makes a show.
What 3 performers dead or alive would you love to have a dinner party with?
Jinkx Monsoon, Frank Woodley, Mindy Kaling
What do you love about working with Observatory Theatre and being part of their productions?
I’ve worked with them twice and they’ve kept me coming back because of the plays they choose to present and the opportunities they create.
The performance seasons are carefully curated to reflect what is happening today and initiate us as viewers to ‘observe’, think and respond.
The team as well offer opportunities for all up and coming creatives to perform and collaborate. Plus, we have a lot of fun.
Why should audiences come along and see The Turquoise Elephant?
The Turquoise Elephant has everything you would want in a show.
Jokes, stunts, deep and thoughtful conversation about the issues that are ever present and how we as a society will choose to respond to the current climate crisis.
Humour with a realist twist. Trust me, it’ll be a good time.
Fame Reporter Word Play
The Turquoise Elephant
A necessary warning.
Savoury or Sweet
Sweet.
Favourite Play or Musical
The Flick by Annie Baker or The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
Celebrity Crush
Ben Schwartz.
Observatory Theatre
Impactful and current.
Place you want to travel to
Germany.
Basra
Reactive.
Sydney Fringe Festival
A buzz of Arty Activity.
TV show Binge
Manifest.
#Artistlife
Like and Subscribe.
Metro Arts
A New Work Hub.
Cause you are passionate about
Fast Fashion Waste, Climate Change
Future Dream
To visit all the Disney theme parks.
Favourite thing about performing
Expanding my knowledge on relationships through script. I love to learn how people think and communicate.
TICKETS
Studio1, Yeerongpilly
Playing from 2-11 June
Photos supplied
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