Director of Scorch, Emma Jordan talks about the rehearsal process, gender, Ireland and more
Emma Jordan
What is the most rewarding part of the process, of bringing a show that you’ve directed to Edinburgh?
Our company Primecut mostly presents our work in Ireland, so for me it was really gratifying to present to such an eclectic audience. It’s always good to present work to new audiences, especially in Edinburgh where it’s truly international and mixed in terms of gender and age.
How would you describe the narrative of SCORCH in ten words?
The story of a gender curious teenager and first love.
The response to SCORCH was quite good, wasn’t it?
We had an amazing response with heaps of five and four star reviews and three awards ; a Best actor award for Amy McAllister – a fringe first – and the Holden street award. Happy days 🙂
Amy McAllister was extraordinary in the play. How would you describe the rehearsal process?
The rehearsal process was very focused. The script leaves lots of open questions regarding presentation and we had to make a lot of decisions quickly. When you are integrating choreography and text it’s a fine balance – it was intense but also really enjoyable. Amy is a very talented actor and we worked with some great artists Ciaran Bagnal, our set and lighting designer, Carl Kennedy our sound designer and Nicola Curry our choreographer. I think we all understood that the play has important things to say regarding perception of issues around gender – we all had to learn fast and we had great support here in Belfast from Anchor and Buoys two transgender support organisations. They were hugely beneficial in helping us wrap our heads around the issues that Kes faces.
How many kilometers did you walk around the city?
Who’s counting ? It’s a gorgeous city and the sight of the mountains made every day a pleasure.
Did you have any recommendations for other shows to see?
I really enjoyed Dublin Old School and Greater Belfast – two provocative shows very different in theme and presentation but both with really playing with language in an inventive way. I also loved Johnny and The Baptists Show in the Roundabout – very funny but with an honesty and integrity I applaud.
Cheers!
