Jackie Clune plays Anna Müller in the world première of Dr Semmelweis, based on an original idea by Mark Rylance, and written by Stephen Brown with Rylance.
Dr Semmelweis is one of three world première productions in Bristol Old Vic’s spring season and will be directed by Tom Morris.
Dr Semmelweis opens on 26 January, with previews from 20 January and runs until 12 February 2022. Tickets are on sale here.
You’re appearing in Dr Semmelweis at Bristol Old Vic, what can you tell us about it?
The play tells the true story of the Hungarian obstetrician who discovered anti-sepsis and saved thousands of lives. It’s full of live music, ballet, tremendous pathos and a few good laughs. We are really enjoying creating it.
What were your first impressions when you read Stephen Brown and Mark Rylance’s script?
I was fascinated by the history of what they thought was ‘child bed fever’ – women dying of sepsis due to poor hygiene in hospitals. It’s a fascinating tale of hospital politics, egos and poor science.
Tell us a little about your character?
Nurse Muller is the nurse who sees it all but nobody listens! She is funny, honest, bright – and largely ignored.
How do you think Anna Müller’s story will resonate with audiences today?
I think people will love her – she represents all the women silenced by men over the centuries. Without giving too much away she pays a high price for joining the top table at the hospital
What are you looking forward to most about working with this exciting cast?
We have a lot of fun for a company working on such heartbreaking material. I’m excited to be back in a theatre again after two years of the pandemic. It is a real theatrical treat – not to mention getting to work with Mark Rylance every night. He’s a total babe.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to see Dr Semmelweis?
You will have a really good night – it’s chilling, exciting, heartbreaking. The strings quartet alone is worth the ticket price.
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