When times are tough, we could all do with a laugh. That’s what was at the forefront of journalist and playwright Jennifer Selway’s mind when she created her new farce Flat Out. Discover her comedy inspirations and why she keeps returning to Upstairs at the Gatehouse in this interview, then book your tickets!
Staged by Ovation, Selway’s farce runs from 31 May to 30 June 2019.
When Angela borrows her friend’s flat for a romantic assignation with an eminent QC she hopes for an afternoon to remember. Unfortunately that’s exactly what she gets… Throw into the mix a cross-dressing neighbour and an over-zealous cleaner to set up a perfect scenario for a modern day tale of adultery and mistaken identities.
Performers Stuart Simons and Grace McInerny return to Upstairs at the Gatehouse to star in Flat Out, having previously appeared in 2018’s Christmas production Nice Work If You Can Get It, as does Tom Pepper, who was in Crazy For You. Cathy Walker, Richard Earl, Jake Mitchell, Jennifer Matter & Hollie Taylor complete the cast.
The creative team is packed with female talent. Joining writer Jennifer Selway are producer Katie Plews, designer Emily Bestow and lighting designer Sarah McColgan. John Plews directs.
Flat Out follows Selway’s previous plays Wallis, about Wallis Simpson, and Treating Odette, both of which previously played Upstairs at the Gatehouse. When not writing plays for Upstairs at the Gatehouse, Selway writes a regular column for The Sunday Express.
Jennifer Selway on Flat Out
My last play Odette was quite serious, so I wanted to write something funny that had no other function apart from making people laugh.
Why were you drawn to writing a farce?
You’ve worked with John Plews & Ovation before. What’s so enjoyable about that collaboration?
How does creating a play compare to your more journalistic writing?
How do you feel about premiering the show at Upstairs at the Gatehouse?
What can audiences expect from a trip to see Flat Out?