Rhianna McGreevy appears in the London première of Olivier Award-winner Laura Wade’s The Watsons at the Menier Chocolate Factory.
The Watsons played to critical acclaim at Chichester Festival Theatre in 2018. The production opens at the Menier on 30 September, with previews from 20 September, and runs until 16 November.
You’re appearing in The Watsons at Menier Chocolate Factory, what can you tell us about it?
The Watsons is an unfinished novel by Jane Austen, it follows the story of a young woman called Emma, who has been forced to return to live with her poor and dysfunctional family, who are relative strangers to her as she was bought up in the care of her wealthy Aunt. The pressure is on for the three Watson daughters to marry, and fast. The book stops very abruptly, but the brilliant Laura Wade has picked up where Jane left off, with some wild and wonderful consequences…
Tell us about your character?
I am playing Margaret Watson, who is the middle Watson sister. She is absolutely desperate to get married, and her determination to find a husband causes her to behave in quite obnoxious, self-absorbed ways, much to the frustration of the rest of the family.
You’re joining the cast following last year’s Chichester run, how have you been bonding with your new cast mates?
Everyone has made me feel so welcome! It’s been joyful. I actually lived with Grace Molony (who plays the heroine, Emma Watson) at drama school, so I came to Chichester to see her in the show last year and absolutely loved it. I couldn’t believe my luck when I got the part! It’s wonderful to have joined such a brilliant, supportive company, with a truly ensemble spirit.
What is it you enjoy most about Laura Wade’s writing?
I think Laura creates complete, breathing human beings, even when they are in extraordinary circumstances. Even when the story is branching out in unexpected directions, everything is firmly rooted in reality. Her writing is hysterically funny, but also beautifully poetic and moving. Each time I read it I discover new, deeper layers of truth to it.
What do you think will be the most challenging thing for you as an actor performing in The Watsons?
Jane Austen has such a monumental legacy, it’s certainly a daunting prospect to try and live up to it! Especially as this is a story she never finished.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to see The Watsons?
It’s bonkers, it’s brilliant, it’s incredibly relevant to the times we are living through. I could say more…but the less you know, the better!
The Watsons, featuring Rhianna McGreevy, is at The Menier Chocolate Factory until 16th November.
