For the love of theatre

Jan 27 2009 By Mark Goode, Surrey Herald

The son of famous director Peter Hall says his love of the theatre started from a young age. Philosophically minded Edward believes his influence does not stem wholly from his world renowned father - the man who founded the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1960.

Edward, who studied a history and philosophy course, before becoming an actor, started directing plays in the 1980s before creating company Propeller in 1997, which uses all male casts and composes its own music.

He says: "I have never been conscious of being influenced by my dad, but ever since I was young I have been interested in theatre. The theatre and acting are similar to what children do every day. If you watch a playground, you will see children interacting and playing games, and pretending to be people, and that is what the theatre is like.

"I used to experience it when I was growing up and I wanted to be a part of it. I am sure my father had an influence on me, because if I had grown up on a desert island without a theatre director for a dad, I might not be one, but that is only part of the reason why I am a director."

Edward and his company will be coming to the Rose Theatre in Kingston from February 17-21 to put on double bills of Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice and A Midsummer Night's Dream.

He has recently finished filming a few episodes of BBC spy drama Spooks, as well filming three episodes of ITV drama Kingdom starring Stephen Fry.

Talking about being a director he says: "The reason why I love it is because no two days are the same. It is fantastic to learn so much and it is like being at university where you have always wanted to be. It is very hard work, and I can't take a sick day because there is no one behind me to do my job.

"The occasional public perception is that people in the theatre stay up

late and drink a lot, but it is 90 per cent hard work and sweat, and 10 per cent inspiration, but that 10 per cent makes it worth it."

He adds: "You are examining a story and the many things and people involved. As a director you are trying to understand what the writer is intending, but then the actors arrive and interpret things that you weren't thinking off. So a play is collaboration between the writer, director, and actors."

* The plays will be staged at the Rose Theatre, Kingston, from February 17-21 and ticket prices range from £5-£27.

For performance times and to book call the box office on 0871 230 1552.