Ella Blackburn joins the cast of Invasive Species, the UK premiere of Maia Novi’s acclaimed semi-autobiographical play, following its Off-Broadway success.
Directed by Pulitzer Prize finalist Michael Breslin, the dark comedy explores immigration, identity, and the pursuit of the American dream through a whip-smart and emotionally charged lens.
Invasive Species runs at King’s Head Theatre until 3 October 2025. Tickets are available here.
You’re starring in Invasive Species at King’s Head Theatre, what can you tell us about the show?
It’s a mostly autobiographical play about Maia, an Argentinian acting student, who is involuntarily swept off to a children’s psychiatric unit in the middle of her final year of drama school. It’s sort of like Alice in Wonderland meets One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest.
Invasive Species had a successful Off-Broadway run, how does it feel to be part of its UK premiere?
Very exciting! It’s a testament to Maia’s writing and Michael’s direction that the show feels so malleable and open to experimentation.
It was lovely finding our way to the characters as a new company but with a strong foundation from the New York run.
Can you tell us a bit about your character, Performer 5, and how you approached the role?
As an ensemble we do a lot of multi-rolling! I play Nurse Elsa who runs the psych ward, Maia’s manic agent Tina, the English translations of Maia’s parents, and Blonde Bitch (a very unnerving fellow patient).
It’s very fun finding distinction physically with different tempos and vocal qualities, but making sure that although they’re big, clownish characters, they’re grounded in their humanity.
The play explores themes like immigration, identity politics, and mental health. What has the rehearsal process been like tackling such complex topics?
Rehearsal rooms are my favourite places to be because you talk deeply about such big ideas and complex human experiences, but it’s always anchored to the specifics of character.
Finding the detail and depth allows for the show to be universal, we’ve all felt lonely or misunderstood. So although the play tackles big themes, it’s never didactic.
What’s it been like working with Maia Novi and director Michael Breslin on this production?
A real pleasure! Maia is such an intelligent writer, and as a performer she’s so free and collaborative, so the text always feels very alive and elastic.
Michael is very instinctive and intricate in his world-building. It’s a joy working with him, he is equal parts kind and hilarious.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Invasive Species?
Do it!! It’s propulsive and very funny, but doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of the acting industry and how we demonise difference.
If you want to find out how Gwyneth Paltrow, Evita, jelly, Encanto and bugs could possibly connect, come and watch!
