Matthew Tennyson plays Lyons in the UK première of Pamela Carter’s The Misfortune of the English at the Orange Tree Theatre which is directed by Oscar Toeman.
The full cast comprises, Hubert Burton (Harrison), Vinnie Heaven (Eaton), Eva Magyar (Tour Guide), and Matthew Tennyson (Lyons).
Pamela Carter’s The Misfortune of the English, starring Matthew Tennyson opens at the Orange Tree Theatre on 28 April, with previews from 25 April and runs until 28 May.
You’re starring in The Misfortune of the English, what can you tell us about the show?
The play is based on the true story of a group of schoolboys on a walking holiday in Germany in 1936, which went disastrously wrong. It’s written by Pamela Carter and directed by Oscar Toeman. It’s a four hander and plays around with form and structure.
What was it about Pamela Carter’s script that appealed to you the most?
Pamela Carter uses the story to explore themes of identity, Englishness, masculinity, education, who gets to control the narrative. It’s an extremely sharp, exciting bit of new writing that I’m really enjoying exploring.
Tell us a little more about your character?
I play Stanley Lyons, who was one of the youngest boys on the trip. He was Jewish and his journey in the play sees him working out his place as somewhat of an outsider amongst the collective.
What do you think will be the biggest challenge for you as an actor with this role?
The writing plays around with form in a way that keeps you on your toes as an actor. The plays asks to stand outside the characters and comment on the events. We are spinning many plates at once, which is challenging but exciting and rewarding too.
How have rehearsals been going and what have you learned from director, Oscar Toeman?
I’ve been really enjoying rehearsals. The Orange Tree is a lovely place to work and there’s an excitement amongst us all to be working on something so smart and fun. It feels relevant and challenging in the best ways. It’s been brilliant to work with Oscar, he’s very passionate, open, and collaborative.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see The Misfortune of The English?
Audiences should expect to have fun, expect to think, and be asked questions. Also expect haze, I gather there’s going to be a lot of haze.
