“Its reality TV meets meets live theatre. What more could you want!"
Today we chat with Ella Le Fournour (she/her) about preparing for and performing in the upcoming production of The VOLITION Project, directed by Belle Hansen and created by Jasper and the fellow Early Career Artists Cohort of 2024. Playing at Theatre Works Explosives Factory from 29th August to 7th September.
Can you describe a typical day of rehearsals for THE VOLITION PROJECT? What is the energy like behind the scenes?
A: The energy within the rehearsal room is always so electric, as this work is being created by artists who all share a unified passion and love for the work. Since the beginning of the devising process, we have shared so much laughter, so many ideas have been brought to the table, and the final result is an amalgamation of the entire ensemble’s strengths. As we are approaching production week, the rehearsals typically begin with running all the choreography in the show, and participating in group physical warm ups, that usually involve a lot of silliness!
What has been the most challenging aspect of devising and bringing his production to life?
A: I have found the process of having to cull lots of material to fit into a cohesive show to be one of the trickiest parts of the process. During devising, so much material is thrown at the wall, and one of the most important processes is being able to objectively pick what will fit best within this show, despite all the material being funny/entertaining and dramatic etc. As we have a 10 person ensemble, a challenge has been ensuring that the show flows, despite there being the input of many different individuals. Discovering our common interests within the ensemble and ensuring the script speaks to everyone has been an interesting task!
Do you have a favourite line or scene from the play? What makes it stand out to you?
A: “My mum was a really big activist before she was “Irwined” by a different stingray." This line is spoken by my favourite character within the show, who utters the most bizarre phrases, that lack any context or cohesiveness, but they make for such a surprisingly likeable persona within the show.
How has working with director, Belle Hansen been?
A: Belle has been an exceptional facilitator of the room, and director of this show for so many reasons. As the early rehearsals of this show were centred around building from the ground up, Belle has led this creative process rigorously, pushing the ensemble to make bold offers, strong choices, and encouraging us to work with so many interesting provocations that have meant all of us have contributed to a moment in the show.
In what ways has this role challenged you compared to other roles you've undertaken?
A: I have definitely learnt a lot in regards to theatre production, both from a crew and creative standpoint, as well as learning how to create work within the independent theatre scene. Collaborating with other artists, learning how to run an audition room, understanding the nitty gritty of budgets, contracts, scheduling etc whilst also participating in the show as an creator/actor has been an incredible lesson in time management and organisation, as well as learning how to balance wearing many different hats at one time. It has made the process of creating work all the more meaningful and rewarding as the final product nears closer.
Looking back at your journey through this production, what moment or aspect will you carry forward into your future projects?
A: I will carry the discipline and organisation that theatre-making has taught me, as well as the gift of networking and community. This entire show has been made possible through the collaboration of so many people, and learning from, helping out, and working with your community and fellow peers is such an invaluable tool within the independent theatre scene.
THE VOLITION PROJECT IS THE FIRST PART OF VOLITION - A DOUBLE FEATURE OF NEW, EXPERIMENTAL THEATRE PLAYING AT EXPLOSIVES FACTORY THIS WEEK!
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