Hampstead Downstairs announced the world premiere of Richard Molloy’s The Harmony Test from 17 May to 22 June. Richard Molloy's uproarious comedy, "The Harmony Test," directed by Alice Hamilton, Hampstead Theatre's Associate Director, delves into life's highs and lows, from starting families to ending marriages. It marks their second collaboration following the acclaimed "Every Day I Make Greatness Happen," nominated for an Olivier Award.
Asian Voice spoke to Bally Gill, a member of the play's lead cast, renowned for his award-winning portrayal of Romeo in the Royal Shakespeare Company's 'Romeo and Juliet.' His recent credits include appearing in 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' with the RSC and starring in the acclaimed film "Allelujah."
Can you tell us a bit about the character you will be portraying?
The play is a comedy. It explores the life, positives and negatives from, like starting a family to the end of a marriage and everything that comes in between. The character I'm portraying is Kash, a 30 to 33-year-old actor residing in London, who is eager to begin a family with his wife, Zoe. The play intricately explores the journey of first-time parenthood, including the trials and tribulations of trying to conceive. It also navigates the complications that arise during pregnancy and the challenges of balancing acting career responsibilities with familial duties. As an actor myself, I find the portrayal of Kash particularly intriguing as it mirrors conversations I've had with my own partner.
What drew you to this particular role or script?
Richard Molloy, the writer, has crafted an exceptionally original and intelligent narrative. His characters are not only witty but also deeply relatable, as their conversations echo real-life experiences. For me, the timing of encountering this play couldn't have been better; it resonated with personal conversations and moments from my own life. Upon reading the script and meeting with Alice Hamilton, the director, I felt an immediate connection to the material. The play's humour and its exploration of diverse journeys, particularly the complexities of relationships and embarking on the next life chapter, captivated me. The character I portray undergoes significant growth throughout the story, evolving from a youthful figure into a mature, responsible partner. This transformation deeply appealed to me. Furthermore, the opportunity to work at the Hampstead Theatre, a venue I've long admired but never had the chance to perform at due to scheduling conflicts, adds an extra layer of excitement. I'm truly thrilled to be part of this production.
The play likely involves collaboration with other actors. What's your approach to working with your fellow cast members?
During our first week of rehearsals, we've been immersing ourselves in the script by reading through scenes and engaging in in-depth discussions about character development. These conversations have been particularly fruitful with my co-star, Pearl Chanda, who plays Zoe. We've been grappling with questions like when did our characters get married, or where did they attend university, in order to infuse our performances with depth and authenticity. Recently, we've begun incorporating improvisations into our process, exploring what happens before the scenes to establish a rich backstory. By delving into the relationships and connections between characters, we're building a solid foundation for our performances. It's an exciting process of discovery as we bring the world of the play to life.
How does this role compare to others you have played in the past? Is there anything unique about it?
This role is different from my usual portrayals of young lovers and romantic leads. It's refreshing to embody a character who is closer to my own age and stage in life. What's remarkable about this part is how well-written it is; Richard Molloy has crafted a character that feels effortlessly natural to inhabit. It's unique from the roles I've played before, but in the best possible way. This character brings out a different aspect of my acting abilities, allowing me to explore comedy, which I relish, amidst the emotional depth of the story. While I typically gravitate towards more serious roles, this play strikes a perfect balance between humour and heartfelt moments. It's a delight to be part of a production that offers both laughter and poignant insights into the characters' journeys. I'm truly eager to share this experience with audiences.
What do you hope audiences will take away from the performance?
I hope audiences find the play funny as well. The experiences depicted, particularly those of being in a couple, whether younger or slightly older, may resonate deeply with some viewers. Going through those stages of life and relationships can be incredibly recognisable. Additionally, the dynamics of the other relationship in the play, where the couple is in their 40s and navigating the breakdown of their relationship after their daughter leaves for university, offer a different perspective. It explores how having a child can impact a relationship and the challenges of maintaining love and connection over time. Ultimately, the play delves into the complexities of relationships and family, showcasing the trials and tribulations that come with them.
