Budding talent sparkles in new award-winning comedy

The young actress was “blown away” when she saw Christopher Durang’s hit comedy in New York last year, so she jumped at the chance to play her own part in this 2013 Tony Awards Best Play when it arrived on South African shores this year.

“I am really proud and honoured to be part of this production,” said Owen of her involvement in a performance that sees her working under the acclaimed direction of Bobby Heaney, along with South African theatre greats Michael Richard, Louise Saint Claire and Bo Peterson, and fellow budding talents, Richard Gau and Kensiwe Tshabalala.

Owen plays the part of pretty ingénue Nina, a budding actress who becomes embroiled in the family dramas of middle-aged siblings Vanya, Sonia and Masha. Owen describes Nina as “a fun and often funny character to play,” and expresses affection for her character’s “absolute enthusiasm and desire to become a brilliant actress”.

Owen said, “[Theatre] has been a lifelong passion, one that can be traced back to those embarrassing nursery school play videos and all sorts of school productions.” Her preference for comedy gels well with what Owen describes as a “witty” play, and with her own character’s comedic value.

But for Owen, the appeal of Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike goes deeper. “I think this is something people are going to be pleasantly surprised at and moved by,” she said.

“Not only is it hilarious and fun, but the play’s humour is anchored in melancholic, regretful and despairing middle-aged characters… It is a whimsical comedy set out to affect and entertain.”

Details: The show runs from 12 July to 10 August. Tickets cost R100 to R170; @Monte_Theatre; Facebook: Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre; www.montecasino.co.za

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