Ian Redford, known for roles in both Coronation Street and Eastenders, appears in Beneath The Blue Rinse. Â Following their hugely successful production of Spiral last year, Veritas Theatre return to Park Theatre in collaboration with KEPOW! Theatre with their production of this wickedly funny, high octane comedy about growing old passionately and disgracefully.
Beneath The Blue Rinse is directed by Glen Walford (Shirley Valentine – UK Tour) and stars Ian Redford, Marlene Sidaway and Kevin Tomlinson. The play was written by Tom Glover, who was selected as one of three winners of the 2018 BAFTA/Rocliffe New Writing Showcase Competition
Beneath The Blue Rinse is at Park Theatre from 21st May – 15th June.
You’re appearing in Beneath the Blue Rinse at Park Theatre, what can you tell us about it?
‘Beneath The Blue Rinse’ is a one-act play dealing with the exploitation of old people; how they are patronised and ignored by the rest of society and poses some questions about our attitudes and preconceptions.
How would you describe your character, and what most do you like about the role?
George is a larger than life likeable man, who like most of us uses humour to get by.
What were your first thoughts when you found out you’d be playing a 72 year old ‘toy boy’?
Not sure what my thoughts are on playing a 72-year-old toy boy! Whether that’s being 72 or a toy boy I’m equally not sure! Sex isn’t something we associate with being old – try thinking of your parents at it! My father used to say as he got older ‘these days I need a week’s notice!’
How do you think Beneath the Blue Rinse challenges people’s perceptions of the older generation?
‘Beneath the Blue Rinse’ challenges our perceptions of being old, our attitudes to being ignored and our minor irritations of illness and minor aches and pains. The thing is you don’t think of yourself as being old that is until you pass a mirror!
What have you found most surprising about Tom Glover’s writing?
The most surprising thing about Tom Glover’s writing has been that he has written a play about a serious subject with humour and he manages to open up a whole raft of ideas about sex, ageing and visibility in a concise and thought-provoking way.
What have you enjoyed most about rehearsals so far?
Rehearsals have been fun and collaborative, with Glen encouraging us and gently prodding us into place.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to see Beneath the Blue Rinse?
You will have a good laugh as well as improving your awareness about getting old, Â so that you’ll leave the theatre with a smile on your face and determined to go and visit your mother, aged aunt or elderly neighbour!
