ME PREGNANT!
What to ask a writer whose past outings have included a moody god in a post-apocalyptic sewer (Rommy), a dead boy’s journey after being hit by a hammer (Hammerhead, is Dead), a Perfect Daugher and a gorilla (Kittenbone Bridge), and whose new baby Me Pregnant! promises the split personality showdown between a woman and an orphaned monster? In a spirit of anti-realism I thought he’d appreciate, I googled ‘good interview questions’ and writer Nick Coyle indulged the outcome.
Is there intelligent life in outer space?
I googled ‘good answers for interview questions’, so my answer would have to be: “I would like to be more like (name a colleague you admire) because she doesn’t have to try to be organised. I utilise to-do lists and a diary so I can train myself to be more efficient with my time.”
Tell me about a time when you wrote a play that was well received. Why do you think it was successful?
One of my first plays was about a magic sapphire. I think it was successful because everyone loves jewels, and everyone loves magic.
If you had to convince a friend or colleague to buy a ticket to Me Pregnant!, what might you tell them?
I’d say, Carl, you’re more than a colleague to me. You’re a friend. Come and see me tread the boards. I’m in love with you.
Why do people climb mountains?
Spite.
When did you realise this would be your career?
When I realised I was too old to start another career path.
What was the worst/most embarrassing situation you’ve had on stage?
Once I was on stage, on all fours, pretending to be a goblin, and a woman in the front row said “it’s disgusting” to her friend.
How black is this black comedy?
As black as a shark’s heart. A shark who loves to laugh!
You have been described as a cult hero of theatre in Sydney. How does that make you feel?
Like a cult leader, without all the sex.
Any questions?
You’re a Pisces. Am I right?
[Nope!]
As you can see, Coyle can even turn rote interview questions into pure gold. Imagine his powers on the stage. No wait, you don’t have to. Book now!
Apr 5-23, The Old Fitzroy Theatre, cnr Cathedral & Dowling St, Woolloomooloo, $21-40 (beer, laksa, show), 8019 0282, rocksurfers.org
