Interview: Lewis Cornay on performing in FOUR PLAY at King’s Head Theatre
Photo credit: Rich Lakos
Beginning performances next month at London’s King’s Head Theatre, Jack Sain’s new revival of Jake Brunger’s provocative comedy, Four Play, interrogates the unspoken rules of modern relationships and the fragile balance between intimacy and freedom. We spoke to actor Lewis Cornay about the upcoming production.
Can you tell us a bit about what Four Play is about and who you play in the show?
Four Play is about a couple (Rafe and Pete) who proposition their friend (Michael) to sleep with them both to try and save their relationship. Michael's partner Andy is never meant to find out but, of course, they do (!) and thus chaos ensues. It’s a play about open relationships, sexuality, and queer shame, whilst also managing to be hilarious. I play the role of Rafe.
Do you share any similarities with your character? How do you relate to them?
Uncomfortably, I share a lot of traits with Rafe! We both have our neurotic moments for sure. I relate to his anxieties over control and identity. I just hope I have more of a sense of humour!
Ten years after its first appearance, why is now the right time for this play to return?
Because the conversation on queer relationships is ever evolving! The play does a brilliant job of existing in a bit of a grey area. It neither condemns nor supports the characters actions - it leaves it up to audiences to decide. That’s my favourite kind of theatre.
After working on lots of musicals, what is it like to work on a play?
There’s a lot of lines! In musicals, it can be easier to memorise because learning songs is easier than monologues (I think it’s something to do with the melodies and rhymes). But in a play, it’s also lovely to have a bit more time to delve into the characters inner worlds and relationships. I also think working in musical theatre (especially the shows I’ve done) can give you a good understanding of comedic rhythm - where the beats need to land. This is a skill I’m hoping I’ve managed to use in rehearsals for Four Play.
You were recently in Doctor Who! How was that experience? What did you learn from it?
Amazing! It was my first screen job which I was over the moon about. I learnt so much from working with the brilliant Ncuti, Varada and director Amanda Brotchie. I think one of the main things was the importance of being as present as possible. On stage, you know you have another night to get the scene right, whereas on screen you have no idea what take they’ll use, so you just have to trust your instincts. I also learnt that I need to invest in some better eye cream because those are some early starts!
What are some of your remaining theatrical career aspirations?
I want to originate more roles and continue to exist in both plays and musicals. I feel very grateful to have had the opportunity to do both in the last couple of years. I also want to get more of my writing work on stage.
Why should people add Four Play to their summer plans?
It’s hilarious. It’s thought-provoking. And strangely affirming. It’s a wonderful cast, creative team and venue and only runs for an hour and a half. What’s not to love!
Four Play runs at London’s King’s Head Theatre from 11 July-17 August, with further info here.
