Eva O’Connor is the writer and performer of MUSTARD directed by Hildegard Ryan, which has just announced a run at The Arcola Theatre.
This production has already garnered several awards including a Scotsman Fringe First Award and a Lustrum Award in 2019 as well as winning the Critic’s Circle Award during its most recent run at Adelaide Fringe Festival this year.
MUSTARD is at the Arcola Theatre, with previews from 16 May, opening on 17 May and runs until 3 June.
You’re bringing Mustard to the Arcola Theatre, what can you tell us about the show?
It’s a one woman show about heartbreak, madness and how condiments are the ultimate coping mechanism. It follows a girl who comes out of a really toxic relationship and becomes addicted to smearing mustard all over her body.
What inspired you to write Mustard?
When I had an eating disorder years ago I was obsessed with mustard (low in calories but high in flavour). I wanted to write something about coping with something behind closed doors- eating disorders, addiction, whatever that might be- and the shame that comes with it. I also wanted to explore how heartbreak can really be the straw that breaks the camel’s back when it comes to mental health. And so, MUSTARD was born.
It’s had phenomenal success at Edinburgh and Adelaide Fringes, how does that feel?
It’s a lovely feeling knowing that a show has resonated with audiences. When you put your heart and soul into a piece, which me and Hildegard (my director) did on this one, it’s a real buzz when it goes down well. However you definitely learn over the years to focus on the work rather than the reviews- the only way to stay sane!
You also perform in the show, what do you enjoy about performing your own work?
MUSTARD is quite a weird, out-there show, and I can bring my own special brand of weirdness to it, which I enjoy.
Will there be any changes for this run at The Arcola?
No, the show is the same since its inception. I think the performance of it has evolved a bit as we have toured, but the script is the same.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Mustard?
You will laugh, cry and never look at a jar of mustard the same again!
