‘I wanted to write something that had no other function apart from making people laugh’: Jennifer Selway on new comedy Flat Out

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.

Nice Work If You Can Get It

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.

Flat Out runs at Upstairs at the Gatehouse, Highgate Village, London N6 4BD from 31 May to 30 June 2019 with performances Tuesdays to Saturdays at 7.30pm, matinees Sundays at 4pm. Tickets are priced from £18. CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE!!

Jennifer Selway on Flat Out

What inspired you to write 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?

When I was little, I loved watching the Whitehall farces on the TV starring Brian Rix. And I’ve always loved the plays of Ray Cooney, Ben Travers, Georges Feydeau and Arthur Wing Pinero who are the masters. As anyone will tell you, comedy is the hardest thing to pull off, so it’s a huge risk. It’s also as complex as compiling a crossword puzzle, making sure everyone enters and exits at the right time. The characters on stage are all having the worst day of their lives and we just laugh at them. It’s quite cruel really.

You’ve worked with John Plews & Ovation before. What’s so enjoyable about that collaboration?

I’ve known both John and Katie forever. I think that running Upstairs at the Gatehouse for more than 20 years is the most tremendous achievement and it’s the most fantastic local resource. They both love theatre in all its forms and it’s been a privilege for me to have them put my work on.

How much do you get involved with rehearsals?

Not much. I’ve done my bit. Nobody wants the writer fussing around changing things. Tempting though it is.

How does creating a play compare to your more journalistic writing?

Well this play is pure fiction whereas journalism is fact. My previous plays about Elvis, Wallis Simpson and the SOE agent Odette were based on historical facts. With them I did try to be as accurate as is possible when you’re creating a work of entertainment.

How do you feel about premiering the show at Upstairs at the Gatehouse?

Very happy. It’s a great space and it’s always lovely to see the regulars in the audience.

What can audiences expect from a trip to see Flat Out?

Two hours of entertainment I hope.

Flat Out runs at Upstairs at the Gatehouse, Highgate Village, London N6 4BD from 31 May to 30 June 2019 with performances Tuesdays to Saturdays at 7.30pm, matinees Sundays at 4pm. Tickets are priced from £18. CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE!!

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