News Article
Preview: The Kitchen Sink
25 Aug 24
Director David Chappell previews his upcoming play, The Kitchen Sink by Tom Wells, on stage at SLT from 10 September. You can also listen to an interview David did recently on Riverside Radio, along with actor Victoria Odlum.
What inspired you to direct this play?
I first discovered this play during lockdown and immediately knew I wanted to work on it in some capacity, an idea which quickly developed in to deciding to direct a new production. It was a play which resonated immediately with me; A working class family in Yorkshire, striving to survive and make ends meet while chasing their dreams. Tom Wells’ writing is also immensely funny and I love comedy.
Victoria Alexandra Odlum & Thomas Judd
Can you tell us about some of the characters we'll meet?
The play focuses on a family unit; Dad Martin is a milkman who is struggling to hold on to customers in the face of the rise of the supermarkets, Kath is a multi-tasking, multi-jobbing mum with a love of experimental cooking. Sophie is the Ju-jitsu loving daughter and Billy is the gay son pinning his hopes on getting in to art college in London with a very special portrait of Dolly Parton. Then there’s family friend and plumber Pete, always with his favourite spanner at the ready!
The cast
What themes are you looking to draw out in your interpretation?
We explore many themes over a year in the life of the characters, including the pursuit of dreams and aspirations through resilience and adaption. All of these sit under the main theme of friendship, family, love and support.
Kananu Kirimi and Sam Blake
How has the rehearsal process been?
Fun! We’ve laughed a lot and after getting to know and love our characters, we’ve cried a little too at some of the sadder scenes.
The rehearsal room as been a super productive space where everyone as really shone for what amazing actors they are and bring to the stage. Everyone has been looking forward to bringing this production to an audience – we can’t wait!
Thomas Judd, Sam Blake and Victoria Alexandra Odlum
What do you hope the audience will take away from the production?
We hope audiences leave feeling happy, positive and with a renewed feeling of the strength to face everyday challenges and carry on. Also a reminder to the power and importance of having a loving caring support network around us in our family and friends … maybe also a new-found love of the power of Dolly!
Kananu Kirimi and Sam Blake
Can you sum up the play in three words?
Hilarious. Relatable. Sequins.
The Kitchen Sink runs 8pm 10 - 14 September at South London Theatre
Buy your tickets here