A recent graduate of LAMDA, Madison Clare is currently playing Pelagia in Captain Corelli's Mandolin at the Harold Pinter Theatre after having been with the show on its UK tour. Her other credits include Plastic (Old Red Lion),Holby City (BBC) and I Knew Jesus (Nutopia/History Channel)
You’re currently in Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, tell us a bit about the piece.
It's a story about love in many different forms, and how it survives under the pressure of war. It's told through various visual forms, music and movement in many different ways by a number of artists and creatives
You’re playing Pelagia in the production, tell us a bit about her.
Pelagia brings a new way of thinking to the island. She pushes against the restraints and expectations of being a woman in the 1940s. She's very strong-willed, independent and feisty. She’s insanely intelligent, and fearless in challenging people.
At only 17 when the play begins, she really doesn't understand the dangers of war until it comes to her. It not only brings risk and tragedy, but also more restrictions - which means she pushes harder against them. She’s constantly being told what she can’t do, so the audience get to witness her grow, and bravely make decisions in taking what she wants.
The play has transferred into London, how does it feel to be able to bring this piece to the London audiences?
Very exciting. We’ve all worked very hard, and had a lot of fun on this, so it’s great to be able to share it.
This is also the first major stage production of the piece, how does it feel to be a part of that?
Pretty darn original.
What do you think is so special about this piece?
It’s got a big ol’ juicy heart that beats very loudly.
This being your West End debut, how does it feel to have the West End on your Cv now?
Pretty tasty I must say, and ultimately very lucky.
Looking towards your future, do you have any dream roles you’d like to
play?
I have a little mental list of roles I’d love to play but to be honest I’m more excited about the characters that are yet to be written, especially in this climate.
And reflecting back on your time you’ve already spent on this show, do you have any special memories?
I have endless memories. I’ve actually got a whole section in the back of my note pad from the beginning of rehearsals entitled ‘moments of the day’. So much happened every day I had to start writing them all down. We’ve had the best time, there’s been a LOT of laughter - it’s near impossible to pick one moment, but Alex (Corelli) falling off the front of the stage was definitely up there (sorry Alex).
And what were you most excited about with transferring the show to London.
London’s the hub of theatre so going to work right in thick of it all is quite exciting. The Pinter is such a lovely theatre to perform at, and everyone who works there is so lovely.
In one sentence, why should people come to see the play.
It’ll take you on a journey of a wide range of emotions- and at the very least, it will make you want to read the book (or re-read it for those who are already fans).
After this run of the show, do you have any plans?
Get some family time in- I’ve got a 16 month-old rascal of a nephew who is far too intelligent for his age, and has infinite energy and charm, he needs keeping out of trouble. It’s a matter of urgency.
