Ned Costello, currently playing Hansel in Hansel and Gretel at The Globe, will return to Park Theatre to star in Leaves of Glass, following its critically-acclaimed and hit run receiving fifteen 5* reviews at Park Theatre in May.
Philip Ridley’s gripping four-hander of memory, manipulation, and power – now regarded as a modern classic – is coming back by popular demand.
Leaves of Glass, directed by Max Harrison, will run at Park Theatre, London Tuesday 16 January – Saturday 10 February, 2024.
You’re returning to Park Theatre with Leaves of Glass, how would you describe the play?
It’s fundamentally about family and memory. Specifically how a family grapples with memories and moments from the past that creep up when you least expect them to. What those memories look like, the shape they take when they bubble up, and how someone can remember something completely differently to the way you do.
What was it about Philip Ridley’s script that made you want to be part of it?
Philip’s writing is so vivid and distinct. The first time I read Leaves Of Glass, I finished it and immediately read it again. It was incredible, and I’d never read a play like it before. The characters were so visceral, the dialogue was electric and the story was exhilarating. It’s one of the few scripts where you discover something new every time you read it.
We found that during the rehearsals and even during shows we were discovering new aspects of character and story all the time. And you can see the same level of shock and excitement from the audience’s reaction.
You’re playing Steven, what do you enjoy most about the role?
Steven is a bit of an anomaly. He’s someone who tries desperately to keep those nearest to him content and happy, but never looks for anything in return. When I first read the play, he felt relatable to boys I grew up with, who may not have been able to express or convey how they felt emotionally, but would always try to do the right thing for their family and friends.
There’s an eerie quality to him, but also something quite endearing which I find intriguing, and a real challenge to play. He unravels as the play unfolds, and is a character who challenges the audience’s perceptions.
It was critically acclaimed during its last run, why do you think audiences enjoyed it so much?
Everyone leaves drawing different conclusions on all aspects of the play – the story, the characters, who’s right, who’s wrong, who’s telling the truth, who’s lying. It’s a thriller that surprises from start to finish. The way our director, Max Harrison approached the show, made it as thrilling as it could be.
We use a very minimal set, and as actors we weren’t limited to strict set blocking, so that every night was different. It made the play as exciting and intense as it could be. You’re watching characters move freely, in a chilling, eerie set designed by the amazing Kit Hinchcliffe, which leaves as much to the audience’s imagination as possible.
Before you return to the Park you’re starring in Hansel and Gretel at the Globe, how is that going?
It’s going great! It’s such a fun show, and it’s so special to be performing at the Globe, particularly at Christmas. One of the cast described it as an hour-and-a-half of ‘gentle Christmas carnage!’ which is probably the best way to describe it.
Simon Armitage has turned the fairytale into something really modern and beautiful, and Nick Bagnall the director has brought it to life in such an exciting way. It’ll be an amazing Christmas show for both kids and adults. It’s packed full of music, magical creatures and lots, (and lots and lots), of sweets!
How as an actor do you prepare yourself to move from a family friendly production to one that’s a bit darker?
I think you have to be conscious that there might be children watching who have never been to the theatre before, so you have to take extra care to make sure it’s as exciting and engaging as possible. You also have to take care that it is family friendly, and suitable for young children. Other than that I’ve found there’s not a massive difference in preparing for either.
We’ve spoken a lot in Hansel and Gretel rehearsals about not patronising the children in the audience, and being really specific with our storytelling and performances, just like you would any other show. Philip Ridley has written loads of incredible children’s stories, so he would understand more than anyone.
When I’m not acting I also work in schools with children of all ages and they have the most vivid imaginations. It’s about keeping them engaged, entertained and telling the story of Hansel and Gretel in the most imaginative and unique way we can.
Most of the original cast of Leaves of Glass are returning, what are you looking forward to most about working with them again?
Getting back in a rehearsal room with everyone again! Working with Katie Buchholz, Joe Potter and Kacey Ainsworth, alongside our director Max, was such a dream. They’re all so talented, and we bring the best out of each other. We have such a strong bond as a cast, which translated so beautifully on stage and in the character relationships. We also have the amazing Katie Eldred joining us as Debbie who’s incredible, and brings something so unique and thrilling to the character. It’s so exciting to have the opportunity to do it again with such an amazing group of actors and creatives.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Leaves of Glass?
BOOK!! It’s a proper thriller, so come and see it. And other than perhaps checking the content warnings, I’d suggest not reading too much into the plot beforehand. Come along and be surprised!
