Theatre Editor for ST.ART Magazine, Elsa Klein, interviews the director Louis Catliff of ‘Blink’, a play by Phil Porter which performs this weekend at the Barron theatre, on what to expect from the show.

Synopsis

Blink tells an unconventional love story between two introverted who develop a relationship through the walls of their neighbouring London flats. In his award-winning script, Phil Porter dissects the dysfunctional complexities of a love developed through a video baby monitor. This odd love affair between two detail-obsessed, socially inept people becomes a singular, beautiful spark. The play highlights the modern condition of relationships built through a screen—which is then taken to the fullest extreme.

The Production

As director Louis Catliff describes Blink, ‘If Wes Anderson and Richard Curtis came together to make a Rom-Com, this would be it.’ The story is both delightful and uncomfortable, intriguing and disturbing. To fully explore these fascinating dichotomies, the creative team for Blink has developed a truly multi-media performance style. The production reaches far beyond the words of the script, incorporating video projections, live guitar music, a miming performance, and experimental lighting techniques. The Barron will be transformed into an artistic space where every production element will contribute to the telling of this strange story.

The crux of the show also heavily relies on the brilliant performances from the two starring actors—seasoned actress Jennifer Grace, who has often appeared on stage at the Barron, and Joseph Baker, making his debut on a St Andrews stage.

Blink as ‘A Flicker’

Catliff notes the odd sense of timing and perspective that define the spark of love between characters Sophie and Jonah. Their connection is indeed fire, ignited in a moment and admired in retrospect. The play is like a momentary flash, a fleeting second of honesty, innocence, and beautiful vulnerability.

Saturday 4th November, 2.00pm
Sunday 5th November, 7.30pm

Email the barronboxoffice@st-andrews.ac.uk to reserve tickets for the performance.

Location: Barron Theatre, North Street.

Cast:

Sophie – Jennifer Grace

Jonah—Joseph Baker

Crew:

Director: Louis Catliff
Producer: Lara Tillotson
Stage Manager: Emily Hepher
Set Design: Lucy Reis
Lighting: Grace Cowie
Projections: Minoli de Silva
Sound: Violet Chaudoir
Acoustic Guitar: Oli Savage
Costumes: Caroline McWilliams
Graphic Design: Jana Tauschinski
Production Assistant: Grace Campbell