Kacey Ainsworth stars in the world premiere of Jab by James McDermott, which opens at the Finborough Theatre for a four week limited season on Tuesday, 20 February 2024.
Inspired by true events, Jab is a coruscating new black comedy, exploring power, gender, domestic violence, conspiracy theories, ignorance, and the limits of love.
Kacey Ainsworth and Liam Tobin star in this stunning new British play, directed by Scott Le Crass, recently nominated for Best Creative West End Debut at The Stage Awards for his production of Rose, starring Maureen Lipman.
You’re starring in Jab at Finborough Theatre, what can you tell us about the play?
It’s an exploration into a long marriage …we often see marriage from a younger perspective .. but come and see it … I can’t give too much away.
What was it about James McDermott’s script that made you want to be part of this production?
It always starts for me with the writing, it has to be strong or compelling in some way, even if it’s abstract or non-linear, but in addition to that I wanted to work with Scott (Le Crass) so a perfect combo.
You’re playing Anne, tell us a little about the character and what you like most about her?
It’s rare to find female parts for middle aged women that are full, and rich, and have range, and are not stereotypical, so I was absolutely drawn by the character of Anne. I like the fact that she has a long line of patience.. I think many women my age have that! She’s very relatable.
And what do you think will be the biggest challenge?
Not having a place to drink afterwards! Loved the bar at the Finborough! But it’s all a challenge otherwise there’s no point to it… it’s the challenge that is the draw.
You’ll be coming into this role straight from the run of Leaves of Glass at Park Theatre, but Jab is a two-hander, do you need to approach that differently?
I have no idea, I’ve never done a two hander, I guess I’ll find out!
What would you say to anyone that was thinking of booking to see Jab?
New writing, new writers – out with the old into the new. We need more voices like James’s in the theatre world, it’s become a bit predictable. It’s also lot more affordable to go to fringe venues. You get a great live night out and you feel every part of the production because you are so close to the action. I find it much more thrilling as an actor and audience member.
