Review Fix Exclusive Midtown International Theatre Festival Coverage: Beth Newbery Talks ‘Ellen and Troy and Eloise’

Review Fix chats with actress Beth Newbery, who discusses her role in the new production “Ellen and Troy and Eloise,” which is set for a run at this year’s Midtown International Theatre Festival.

ELLEN AND TROY AND ELOISE by Warren Glover; starring Lily Marceau, Joshua Rugiano and Beth Newbery. Laurie Rae Waugh directs this comedy that exemplifies the parable “If you love someone, set them free… especially after you meet their mother!”  Wed 7/20, 8:45pm; Fri 7/22, 7:00pm; Sun 7/24, 2:45pm

For more on this production, click here.


Review Fix: What was the inspiration for this project?

Beth Newbery: Reading the script at first brought a smile and I love the way the writer has made the communication between the couple real and simply natural with a hint of comedy by the Mother. I was inspired as soon as I noted that many people would have been though or know someone who may want to have the guts to do what Eloise is doing. Being in love and loving someone, does this stop your life. The mother obviously doesn’t think so.

Review Fix: What’s your creative process like?

Newbery: It’s simple, clear and direct with the actors finding a way to move and develop the images thought moving whilst learning and gaining confidence without the script and then playing with the reactions, unsaid words, which are more important and then allow the director to work through missing elements that may not be noted , to enhance the process. Each rehearsal has to have a lift, each actor are requested to bring something to the table and alter moves and decisions of reacting vocally whilst listening to each other. Then simply playing with it until we each a place where we are able to keep growing.

Review Fix: What makes this different or special?

Newbery: All plays can be considered special or even different as each one as a story but this one for me, and after discussions with the director is special because of the use of words, and noted behaviour patterns between relationships. It brings out the raw, sometimes mean, but real “tennis match” arguments and whilst hurting, loving and being in need. All three characters need love, but explore pain, hurt, concerns, all in the mix around a brassy mother who also has moments of actually being one to both.

Review Fix: What did you learn about yourself through this process?

Newbery: As for learning, I guess this depends on what you mean, in terms of the creative ways I have learnt that playing a part that is loud, brash and elements to exploring flirting,then I like it, I have learnt to have fun with rehearsing and let your hair down as this really does allow you to explore more and develop quicker. I also understand that the other actors also are comfortable more when you open yourself to being relaxed.

Review Fix: What are your ultimate goals for this production and for the future?

Newbery: It would be great to develop this and create and produce the full play version as the writer has already done this and I think that taking it elsewhere after gaining this insight would be productive and beneficial.

Review Fix: What do you think your audiences will enjoy the most?

Newbery: The interaction between the mother and the ex-boyfriend of the daughter, and the manner in which the relationships behave. I think many people can relate to some parts of the conversation so this will certainly be a lighthearted and fun play to watch.

Review Fix: What’s next?

Newbery: For me personally, I am working on a feature film, a TV show and have already been asked to assist with two projects and direct a play ! I have a busy next two years already!!  As for the cast, and the play I would love to work with all those involved in this production as it’s been insightful and fun.. thank you.