Pamela Nomvete stars in Dominique Morisseau’s Skeleton Crew – the final production in Michael Longhurst’s tenure as Artistic Director at Donmar Warehouse.
Olivier Award-winner Matthew Xia directs Tobi Bamtefa, Branden Cook, Pamela Nomvete, and Racheal Ofori.
Morisseau’s 2016 play was nominated for three Tony Awards, including Best Play, for its 2022 Broadway run. This production, which marks the UK première, opens at Donmar Warehouse on 4 July and runs until 24 August with previews from 28 June.
You’re starring in Skeleton Crew at Donmar Warehouse, what can you tell us about the show?
It is a wonderful play about factory workers in an automobile plant in Detroit dealing with the horrors of a recession. The workforce in this plant has been cut down and the characters you will meet are doing double the work for less money. They are the skeleton crew of a dying industry.
What was it about Dominique Morisseau’s script that made you want to be part of this production?
Dominique Morisseau’s writing just lifts off the page! Her characters are gritty and bold- in your face. I felt hypnotised by the world she lays before us. We are confronted with worlds within worlds in a harsh sparsely furnished factory break room in Detroit and yet we experience a community with rich cultural and social histories. Her writing is visceral and immediate.
You’re playing Faye, tell us a little about the character and what you love about the role?
Faye is without a doubt one of the most exciting characters I have had the privilege to play. She is deeply flawed and yet full of wisdom and compassion. I would describe her as uncompromisingly human!
And what do you think will be the biggest challenge?
For me the biggest challenge is staying in charge of the rhythm and language. Dominique Morisseau is clear about the pace and rhythm of the language and how that informs how these characters communicate with each other while making sure the audience is never left behind! Not an easy process but it is magical when we get it right.
What have you enjoyed about working with director Matthew Xia?
Matthew is an exciting director to work with. He works in a collaborative style while having a clear vision of what he wants from the play and his actors. He is one of our finest directors, it is such a joy to be in his rehearsal room. He also casts brilliantly! I am working with incredible actors both talented and gracious.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Skeleton Crew?
Prepare for an evening of great story telling. You will experience a roller coaster of emotions and I hope it is an experience which will remain with you for a very long time.
