Postpeople opens Sunday 27th September at the Bread & Roses Theatre, exploring the reminder that life altering choices are often made by some random strangers in an office. Learn more about what you can expect:
1: Where did the original idea come from?
I’d just finished a zoom meeting, I had to fill in for my manager during an inter-department meeting. I had no idea what I was talking about but I muddled my way through. At the end of the meeting some big decisions that affected other people were made based on what I had said. That idea of unqualified people in positions that affect others really stayed with me, and it’s clearly prevalent in all aspects of society. Also, the concept of multiple realities is used all the time in films and TV but it seems to mostly be a reason to bring superheroes back from the dead. I wanted to humanise it. So I’d say a combination of those two ideas.
2: How did you develop the four characters and make sure they each had different perspectives on the moral decisions they’re being asked to make?
Very basically they all needed a reason to want to leave work as quickly as possible. I’m a man who’s familiar with wanting to leave work quickly, so I had plenty of examples to draw on. Those reasons informed their perspectives.
3: Do you have a favourite character, and if so, why?
I wouldn’t say I have a favourite but Lewis definitely felt the easiest to write. His reactions to events probably mirror most closely how I would react.
4: Do you think there actually is a way to measure the value of someone’s life?
Ultimately no. I think we all have our own criteria or things we deem “valuable” but to think that there can be a unilateral measurement that works across the globe is crazy. And are we judging ourselves or each other? Is it more important to think your own life is of value or to be thought of by others as valuable? It gets confusing quickly. Having said all that, someone who’s hardworking, switched on, helpful to others and actually funny is going to be welcome in most places.
5: How do you balance humour alongside some emotionally charged topics?
I think it’s really the only way I know how to deal with them. A lot of films and theatre feel incredibly dark and grim. This just doesn’t ring true. I’ve had some rubbish days but even in those there’s been humour. Plus I find that a well crafted joke about a provocative topic is a great way to help an audience trust you as a writer/director/performer.
6: What has been the most enjoyable part about creating Postpeople?
Getting to be in the room working on a piece that has been, for me, an idea for many years. It’s my first time directing and seeing actors bring to life my words for the first time is an absolute thrill. I’ve fallen in love with the process.
Postpeople opens Sunday 27th September at the Bread & Roses Theatre. Many thanks to Arthur Davies for answering our questions. Book your tickets here!
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