Cocaine opens Saturday 15th August at The Courtyard Theatre, exploring the emotional and psychological turmoil caused by drug addiction. Learn more about what you can expect:
1: What inspired you to adapt this play for modern audiences?
The play combines steamy romance, drama, intrigue and emotional depth as two
people, united by a shared purpose, struggle to acknowledge their feelings, with
addiction serving as a powerful metaphor for their relationship. These themes
remain just as relevant today. By relocating the story to the 1980s, we were able
to draw upon the era’s music and the sharp rise in drug use across the United
States. It also presented us with the exciting challenge of reimagining a text first
published in 1917 within a different decade, demonstrating that its characters,
conflicts and themes remain compelling regardless of when the story is set.
2: What was the biggest challenge in updating this play?
The greatest challenge was working with language first published in 1917 and
adapting it to a different decade through subtle changes, while considering how
the original dialogue might naturally be spoken in a later era. It has been equally
demanding for Geir Thomassen, who plays Joe, and Phoebe Alice Ritchie, who
plays Nora, as both actors have had to develop distinct American accents to
reflect the play’s US setting.
3: The play says it’s about “people, not substances.” How did you keep that focus
throughout the production?
When people turn to substance misuse, it is important to understand their
personal circumstances, emotional state and the underlying reasons behind their
dependency. Throughout the production, we have therefore placed considerable
emphasis on Joe and Nora’s backstories. During rehearsals, we have spent a
great deal of time examining what they say to one another, why they say it and
how those words are expressed. By exploring the subtext and intentions behind
every exchange, we hope to portray both characters and their struggles with
honesty, depth and compassion.
4: How did you portray addiction authentically?
The theme of addiction refers not only to the characters’ substance use, but also
serves as a metaphor for their complex relationship. Although many of their
struggles stem from their habit, it also draws them together by temporarily
numbing their pain, even as they become increasingly dependent on one another.
To portray them authentically, I have focused closely on their relationship, their
shared lifestyle, the physical environment of their room and, most importantly, the
way they speak and respond to each other in light of everything they are
experiencing.
5: How did you build the emotional dynamic between Joe and Nora?
We developed the emotional dynamic between Joe and Nora by exploring what a
typical day might look like for them—what they do, how they spend their time
together and the challenges they face. We also examined the distinction between
what each character wants and what they truly need, allowing us to portray them
as three-dimensional individuals and better understand their emotional journeys
and personal growth.
6: What was the most enjoyable part about creating Cocaine?
The most rewarding part of the process was writing two new monologues for Joe,
played by Geir, and Nora, played by Phoebe. The additional material was created
to deepen both characters, but it was also an enormous challenge: I needed not
only to articulate their inner emotions, but also to honour Pendleton King’s
original work by remaining faithful to his writing style. I sincerely hope audiences
find the transition between the original and newly written material seamless,
engaging and enjoyable.
Cocaine opens Saturday 15th August at The Courtyard Theatre. Many thanks to Sushant Nair for answering our questions. Book your tickets here!
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