Red Line Productions will present the play 'Low Level Panic' throughout July and August.
The play, written by the late Clare McIntyre and directed by Justin Martin, will provide audiences with an insight into the effects that pornography and self-image have on young women in our society.
Geraldine Hakewill, starring as the character of Celia the awkward, self-obsessed third-wheel of the three main characters, answered some questions about the show.
Geraldine HakewillHow does it feel to be in such a heavily relevant and strongly-themed production?
It's incredibly satisfying to be part of a show that feels immediate and important. I'm always drawn to work that can be thought-provoking as well as entertaining.
What strengths and weaknesses of the character do you feel you can relate with?
Celia is very different from me in many ways, but I understand a lot about her. I understand her social insecurity and her desire to be liked by everyone, but I also identify with her optimism.
Describe in one sentence how this production has changed the way you approach characters.
I've found a lot of relaxation on stage and I'm taking myself less seriously.
How does this role compare to any of your previous roles?
I can see some slight similarities between Celia and Chelsea who I played in 'Wanted' for Channel Seven, like the OCD tendencies. But each character is always very unique, just as each human is unique. Celia is much more self-obsessed and vain than anyone I've ever played before, and that's great fun to play with.
Image © Julia RobertsonDo you feel that there is a certain significance in this play compared to others?
This play feels very timely because of the rise in the media of stories and social media threads surrounding feminism and gender equality. I think society, generally, is more alert to any whiff of sexism or sexual abuse than it has ever been before, and so even though 'Low Level Panic' was written in the late '80s there probably isn't a better time for it to be staged than right now.
What excites you most about the upcoming performances?
Being able to play every night with Kate Skinner and Amy Ingram and our supporting cast. It's a big, messy romp and we're having a ball.
How do the two other lead characters differ from Celia?
Mary is suddenly hyper aware of the male gaze that governs her life and is trying to push her way out from under it. Jo is aware of it in a less anxious way and is trying to live successfully in it, but is failing. And Celia isn't so consciously aware of it but she manages to work within it it really well, which is incredibly frustrating for the other two to watch.
Do you expect a strong response from the audience? Why?
I had a strong response reading it for the first time, so I hope audiences feel strongly about the themes and the questions it raises. It was written to expose and start a conversation about women and the relationship they have to their own bodies and to each other, and I think it does that really effectively. I'd be surprised if people didn't keep talking about it after they leave the theatre.
Image © Julia RobertsonHow much of an impact has Justin Martin had on your creative work?
He's our director so it's impossible for him not to impact my work on this show. He had a very strong vision and so it's our job to bring that to life. Working with new directors always adds to your own process because everyone has a different way of working. Justin gave us a lot of freedom within a clear framework that he set up early on in rehearsals, and so I've been forced to learn to trust myself in a way that I haven't experienced on many shows before. That has been a great gift.
What are some of the key changes you have experienced in yourself throughout the production?
Confidence grows with every new job and new experience, and I feel like my confidence about my abilities and my work has grown exponentially on this job. Mostly due to flicking between so many different genres and styles within the piece. For example, at one point I have a big song and dance number. It's fun testing your limits and finding ease with something you thought you'd be terrified about doing.
'Low Level Panic' plays at Old Fitz Theatre 12 July-12 August.
