In a day where generationally, we’ve witnessed a shift in how prospective couples meet, the online realm dominates interactions. Dating apps now a part of our digital fabric, perfectly curated accounts allow for us to portray ourselves in a light that we’d like to be seen in. Positive attributes understandably pushed to the forefront whereas our flaws – phased out or seldom addressed and with this, hard truths can often present themselves in various forms. Exploring this phenomenon of online dating and the aftermath of meeting someone you possibly envision yourself with, writer Victoria Buse reflects on her latest show Not In the Mood for Quiche Anymore, a resonant piece placing focus on main character, Becks’ hope to meet her dream man online, which she believes she has done, only to discover his criminal conviction. A timely work, especially in light of the current news cycle which has had a heavy focus on prison, Victoria tells us more about what inspired her to explore this narrative further, working with director Michael Gyngell and actor Laura Matthews and her hopes for staging the show in the future.
Hello Victoria, your show Not In the Mood for Quiche Anymore played at Barons Court Theatre from the 22nd until 26th October. How did the show go? What feedback did you receive towards the show?
We had a great run and lovely feedback. One of the main responses was how relatable the protagonist’s experience of dating was for many watching. There were also lots of comments on how likeable ‘ Becks’ was, despite her flaws, and that the narrative was full of twists which the audience weren’t expecting.
Tragi-comedy Not In the Mood for Quiche Anymore focuses on main character, Becks’ hope to meet her dream man, which she believes she has done, until she discovers his criminal conviction. What inspired you to explore this particular narrative further?
I think a lot of the time we can convince ourselves that someone is right for us, when we don’t really know who they are, we just project who we want them to be and believe it. It was important for me to approach this from the perspective of a lonely individual, as that is when we are most vulnerable. I also wanted to explore the darker side of relationships, looking at the issue of a controlling partner and how slowly but surely, we can begin to isolate ourselves from those that care because of this ‘control’.
Written by yourself, the show starred Laura Matthews as Becks, and was directed by Michael Gyngell. How long was the rehearsal process? How did you all work together to realise the show?
We had a very small budget, so did not get the luxury of lots of rehearsal time. We had a script reading about a month before the rehearsals began, and then only just over a week to rehearse before the opening night. It was a collaborative process, but from a writing perspective, I top and tailed the rehearsals, editing the script in response to notes from the Michael’s rehearsals with Laura. We continued to edit during the run as we were able to refine the script based on the audience’s reaction each night.
What have you learned/taken away from creating the show?
That a show is continually evolving and developing – it’s never really feels like a finished piece!
Are there any plans to stage this again in the future?
We’re looking at various options – we’d love to get a longer run of the show at a different venue if we can raise the necessary funds.
If staged again, what can audiences expect from the show?
To quote some of the reviews, the audience can expect a “highly engaging” and “sleek one-woman show” which gives a beautiful combination of humour and poignancy.
Questions by Lucy Basaba.
Not In the Mood for Quiche was shown from Tuesday 22nd until Saturday 26th October at the Barons Court Theatre, to find out more about the production, visit here…
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