Podcast Summary: MickeyJoTheatre Episode Featuring Virginia Gay

Episode Title: Virginia Gay (Cyrano, Winners & Losers, All Saints) - INTERVIEW
Release Date: December 7, 2024
Host: MickeyJoTheatre
Guest: Virginia Gay, Writer and Star of Cyrano

1. Introduction to Virginia Gay and Cyrano

Mickey Jo opens the episode by expressing his admiration for Virginia Gay, highlighting her as the writer and star of his favorite show at the Edinburgh Fringe, Cyrano. He describes the production as "damn near a perfect theatrical experience" due to its language, performances, and staging (00:01). Virginia Gay is celebrated as a pivotal figure in Australian theatre, now bringing her queer contemporary retelling of Cyrano to London’s Park Theatre from December 11 to January 11.

Mickey Jo (00:01): "This was damn near a perfect theatrical experience. The language of this, the performances of this, the staging."

2. The Essence of the New Cyrano Adaptation

Virginia Gay elaborates on the show's nature, emphasizing its queer exploration and departure from traditional narratives. She notes that while the production is described as gender-flipped, it transcends that label by deeply embedding queer themes.

Virginia Gay (02:41): "It's described as gender flipped, but it's so much more than that as well. It's this queer exploration of it that uses the classic story as a jumping off point and then goes wonderfully off Piste."

Mickey Jo concurs, discussing the challenges and necessities of adapting classic stories for modern, diverse audiences. He emphasizes the importance of addressing contemporary issues such as flawed romantic ideals and the relevance of these themes today.

Mickey Jo (03:00): "You have to investigate that. And again, that's what we do with classics. ... it became about the body. It just is so clearly about."

3. Queerness and Representation in Cyrano

The conversation delves into the queer dimensions of the adaptation. Virginia Gay highlights how the character's imperfections resonate with queer audiences, reflecting themes of unrequited love and self-acceptance.

Virginia Gay (03:00): "And I agree with you that this feeling ... is a queer story. It's like the queerest."

Mickey Jo expands on this by relating it to broader queer experiences, such as feeling out of place or struggling with self-worth, thereby making the story universally relatable yet deeply personal.

Mickey Jo (05:00): "This feeling of like, I'll make myself the most interesting person in the room. ... It's like the queerest."

4. Audience Engagement and Community Building

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on how the production fosters a sense of community and belonging among its audience. Mickey Jo describes interactive elements like handing out poetry and streamers, which serve both a welcoming and a dramatic purpose.

Mickey Jo (12:07): "It's one of the most beautiful. ... We're just helping people sit down. In fact, theatre is an act of service."

Virginia Gay shares anecdotes about the show's impact, including audience members getting tattoos inspired by the production and even incorporating the play into personal milestones like weddings.

Mickey Jo (19:32): "Someone brought the show to a wedding. It was incredible."

5. Transformation from Edinburgh to London

Virginia Gay and Mickey Jo discuss the transition of Cyrano from the Edinburgh Fringe to London's Park Theatre. They explore how the rehearsal process has evolved, adapting to the new venue and audience dynamics while maintaining the show's core essence.

Mickey Jo (17:40): "We're constantly excited by what can be new in it. New audience, some new performers, new shape."

The adaptability of the production is highlighted as a strength, allowing it to remain fresh and engaging across different settings.

6. The Power of Storytelling and Future Aspirations

Mickey Jo reflects on the importance of storytelling in shaping perceptions and fostering empathy. He expresses his commitment to writing and creating inclusive, humorous, and unique theatrical experiences.

Mickey Jo (23:08): "I believe in the power of laughter. ... We're not replicas. ... Let's celebrate. It makes me really happy."

Virginia Gay encourages the continuation of such narratives, acknowledging the transformative potential of inclusive storytelling.

7. Concluding Remarks

As the interview wraps up, both Mickey Jo and Virginia Gay reiterate their excitement for the show's run at the Park Theatre. Mickey Jo invites listeners to attend and experience the production firsthand, underscoring its significance in contemporary theatre.

Mickey Jo (25:20): "I hope that you go and see it at the Park Theatre from the 11th of December to the 11th of January. Get your tickets and you might see me there because I am definitely going."

Key Takeaways

• Innovative Adaptation: Virginia Gay's Cyrano offers a fresh, queer-centric perspective on the classic tale, emphasizing modern themes and diverse representation.
• Audience Connection: Interactive elements and relatable themes foster a strong sense of community and emotional connection among viewers.
• Adaptability and Evolution: The production's ability to evolve from the Edinburgh Fringe to London showcases its dynamic nature and broad appeal.
• Commitment to Inclusivity: Both hosts advocate for inclusive storytelling that resonates with diverse audiences, emphasizing the importance of representation in theatre.

Notable Quotes

• Mickey Jo (02:53): "It is filled with really important ideas, I think big ideas. But it is silly and deeply funny and my favorite way to think about how to change the world."
• Virginia Gay (10:16): "Roxanne ... she has sexual agency. She knows her body. She knows what she's asking for."
• Mickey Jo (21:59): "It's a feeling that actually, weirdly, a lot of us really know. What I thought used to be quite a niche queer feeling is actually like, we all did that."

Conclusion

This episode of MickeyJoTheatre provides an insightful exploration into Virginia Gay's innovative rendition of Cyrano. Through engaging dialogue, the podcast highlights the transformative power of inclusive storytelling and its profound impact on both performers and audiences. Listeners are encouraged to experience the magic of Cyrano at the Park Theatre, underscoring the vital role of contemporary adaptations in keeping classic narratives relevant and resonant.