Moe Bar-El and Ali Azhar have been cast alongside renowned German actress Sarah Alles in Marion Bott’s Moormaid – an explosive new play about two lost individuals’ search for freedom.
We caught up with Sarah Alles to find out more about Moormaid and her UK Debut.
You’re starring in Moormaid at the Arcola Theatre, what can you tell us about it?
It’s a play about two people who have lost themselves and don’t know the purpose of their lives anymore. We follow their journey from self-destruction to rebirth. When I first read the play I was left speechless – I laughed, was shocked, amazed, and completely in love. I think you can expect an emotional roller-coaster when you see Moormaid.
What can you tell us about your cast mates?
I’m really looking forward to meeting Moe Bar-El. There were 2 Moormaid auditions and I could only be at one of them, so I haven’t met him yet. It feels a little bit like a blind date!
However, I did meet Ali Azhar at his audition. He was one of the last of the day and we were all a little tired. But when he said the first line he certainly had all our attention. He made so many surprising and creative choices and presented his very own and bold version of Khan. He really blew me away!
What are you most looking forward to about performing in the UK for the first time?
I can’t wait to meet other artists and get some new input from creatives working in London! I want to learn as many new things as possible and go to a lot workshops, once we’ve finished the rehearsals. I’m looking forward to breathing in the spirit of the city.
You grew up in Berlin, how does the play compare to the city today?
If you have ever been to Berlin you will definitely be reminded of some nice memories while watching the play. There are so many subtle Berlin things in the play. For me it is like bringing a little bit of Berlin with me to London.
What do you like most about Marion Bott’s writing?
Marion builds amazing images with her words. It is touchingly direct and funny in the darkest moments. I also really enjoy her mixture of naturalistic language and poetic metaphors. For me as an actress, her writing is a feast!
You’ve previously adapted a screenplay for the stage, as well as writing a play, do you prefer writing or performing?
I really enjoyed writing and adapting. I think, in general, I love the process of creating. However, acting is my true passion. That’s why I also played the main part in both Hard Candy and Life is a Bitch!
Marion Bott’s Moormaid is at the Arcola Theatre, 24 Ashwin Street, Dalston, London E8 3DL Wednesday 18th April – Saturday 19th May 2018.
