Word got around about a new Shakespeare production just in time for Anthea Hill, Sharu Delilkan writes.
Auckland's theatrical community is small enough for rumours to reach everyone in it rather quickly. When you're a young actor looking to widen your experience, that's very helpful. Anthea Hill is a young actor and Measure for Measure is her route to experience.
"After seeing [Breaking Legs Theatre Company's] Twelfth Night I knew I had to audition for their next production," says the 20-year-old Kingslander, "so when I heard about the casting, I was there like a shot."
The theatre company's founder and director, Oliver Rosser, says, "We're putting a 16th century English play into a fresh context, not only for today's theatregoers to relate to, but to have fun with." So, this Measure for Measure takes place in an upmarket restaurant with the tensions between front-of-house staff and chefs boiling over.
UK-raised Hill, says it was only after taking part in the Shakespeare Globe Centre NZ Young Shakespeare Company in 2008 and performing at London's Globe Theatre that she started paying attention to William Shakespeare.
"That's what made me decide to major in drama (and film studies)," says the student who's in her final year at the University of Auckland.
In this production, her character, Isabella, is a lead singer in the band performing at the gourmet restaurant. "It's also my first lead in a Shakespearean play, playing a strong female character, who's the emotional lynchpin, is brilliant."
Working with Rosser, says Hill, has been an absolute treat and she's learned a great deal.
"He has amazing ideas and it's great the way he articulates them. I also love the way rehearsals are so electric - makes you want to give it your all."
Measure for Measure, Raye Freedman Arts Centre, cnr Silver Rd & Gillies Ave, Epsom, Oct 7-9, 7.30 pm. Tickets: ph 361 1000 or see: www.iticket.co.nz
Made to measure
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