Jennifer Leong will play Christine in the tour of the Storyhouse production of August Strindberg’s Miss Julie adapted by Amy Ng and directed by Dadiow Lin.
Touring 22 June – 10 July 2021, Miss Julie opens at York Theatre Royal, before visiting Southwark Playhouse and Belgrade Theatre Coventry. The production will be staged in a Covid safe environment, following latest government advice and adhering to social distancing guidelines for audiences.
Sophie Robinson returns to the role of Miss Julie, and is joined by Jennifer Leong as Christine and Leo Wan as John.
You’re starring in the UK Tour of New Earth Theatre’s Miss Julie. What can you tell us about the play?
This is an adaptation of Strindberg’s Miss Julie, transporting the action to colonial Hong Kong. Those familiar with the original will recognise the plot and the characters, but this time they are illuminated by extra layers of racial and gender politics, on top of the class divide between mistress and servant.
How does it feel to be taking on the role of Christine?
Christine has a lot of sense and warmth to her. I love the challenge of the role because it is through Christine’s eyes that we see how much Julie and John risk losing. She is the closest thing to family they both have.
What was it about Amy Ng’s writing that made this play stand out for you?
Amy has preserved the drama of the original play and added many layers of intrigue and political insight. She has also given both Julie and Christine more agency in this adaptation, which is a joy to play with. No spoilers though, you’ll have to watch the play to find out what I mean!
How does it feel to be bringing live theatre back to audiences around the country?
It’s great! I’ve been to the theatre twice in the past fortnight and I could feel the excitement in the air. There’s nothing quite like laughing or gasping with a room full of people, experiencing something that is only happening then and there. I get nervous too, but the adrenaline is part of the fun!
How have you been getting to know your fellow cast mates, and have things had to be different because of restrictions?
We’re a small cast of three, so we got to know each other quite well over our week of live-streamed performances last month. We couldn’t go to the pub or have meals out because of Covid, but the joy of being back at work in a theatre more than made up for that.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to see Miss Julie?
Go! You don’t have to know the original play to enjoy this adaptation; and if you do know it, it’s fascinating to see how this version works as an update. Our excellent creative team has put so much love and care into the production, we are excited to share it with you!
