INTERVIEW: To look at today’s world, first look back at Shaw’s ‘Devil’s Disciple’
Photo: Folami Williams is featured in The Devil’s Disciple from the Gingold Theatrical Group. Photo courtesy of Carol Rosegg / Provided by Print Shop PR with permission.
Gingold Theatrical Group, the skilled interpreters of George Bernard Shaw’s work, is back with a brand-new revival of The Devil’s Disciple, a show that runs through Saturday, Nov. 23 at Theatre Row in Midtown Manhattan. The story — billed as part adventure, part romance and part comedy — was originally meant to promote the idea of a free Ireland, according to press notes, even though its main narrative surrounds the events of the American Revolution, circa 1777. This production stresses the importance of democracy, the value of community and the need to stand up for what one believes in.
The turn-of-the-century piece comes to New York City courtesy of actors Nadia Brown, Susan Cella, Tina Chilip, Teresa Avia Lim and Folami Williams.
Recently Hollywood Soapbox exchanged emails with Williams, who previously appeared in the San Francisco run of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. For Williams and company, this show, written more than 125 years ago about a time period nearly 250 years old feels eerily prescient in 2024. Here’s what the actor had to say about those connections. Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.
Do Shaw’s words feel eerily powerful in 2024?
Yes, especially after the election results. It’s surprising how there are some lines of the show that feel quite powerful. For instance, when Richard is in the court room, he says, “Clearly, democracy is a device that ensures we shall be governed no better than we deserve.” This line has a brutal ring to it now.
Did you have to conduct some research to better understand these historical events?
Yes, I did. The adaption of the play that we are performing is an amalgamation of many versions of the play and some of Shaw’s writings. Fun fact — every time Shaw renewed the copyright of the play, there were always some changes. He was constantly tweaking, so going back to older versions of the play helped me to navigate some of the ideas in our adaptation.
How do you approach your particular characters?
I approach the characters I play by first really understanding the world in which they inhabit and then finding a strong understanding of their emotional arc throughout the play. The character of B is a contemporary woman coming to find a value in the past that she can use today. Judith Anderson is trapped by the rules of society and religion of a young America, striving for the strength and fortitude women of today constantly have to tap into and find. So, understanding where each of these women were coming from helps me understand them emotionally and even physically.
Do you feel like too many people today are not active members of their community?
No, I don’t feel that way. I think that being active in one’s community takes many forms, and people are constantly finding ways to contribute to their community. I think each person’s contribution should be different.
Why is standing up for what one believes in so difficult?
It can be difficult because you often feel as if you are the only person who feels a certain way. But nine times out of 10, you’re not.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
The Devil’s Disciple, featuring Folami Williams, continues through Saturday, Nov. 23, at Theatre Row in Midtown Manhattan. Click here for more information and tickets.
