Actress and Prizewinning Poet Laurie Ogden is currently touring in The Ocean at the End of the Lane, playing the part of Sis. Due to showing at the Mayflower in Southampton from 4 July, tickets can be booked here
Lets start with a few favourites
Favourite show (whether you have been in it or not)?
Either Lucy Kirkwood’s The Welkin, or genuinely The Ocean at the End of the Lane. I saw its original production at the National Theatre, and still can’t believe I get to be a part of telling this story.
Favourite book?
Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason or Ella Frears’ poetry collection Shine, Darling
Favourite theatre?
Too tricky, they all have different vibes. I would really love to be in a piece of new writing at the Royal Exchange in Manchester.
Favourite song?
Currently, To Live a Life by First Aid Kit
Favourite type of music?
Folk or lofi hip hop.
Favourite food?
Any pasta, I’m obsessed.
Favourite drink?
Glass of malbec or a big cup of tea.
What is your favourite role so far?
Probably Laurie Jones, a chartist, in Victoria’s Knickers at the Soho Theatre. It was directed by the brilliant Ned Bennett & I got to wear a period drama outfit but attack someone with a chainsaw (and it was funny).
What was your first role?
A horrible schoolgirl bully in a radio play for BBC Radio 4.
And what role would you really like to play?
Tamora in Titus Andronicus.
If you weren’t a performer what would you be?
I’m a writer as well as a performer, so hopefully I’d just have more time to dedicate to that!
What made you decide to be a performer?
I’ve loved telling stories in all their forms since I was tiny. I tried really hard to not be a performer because I didn’t think it was possible, but being a part of the NYT REP Company showed me it was – it really changed my life.
How are you finding touring?
It’s very tiring, but it’s incredible getting to travel all over the UK and connect with different audiences. We are so lucky to play theatres that lots of actors dream of playing. Being on at the Liverpool Empire was surreal and incredible.
What advice would you give 16 year old you?
Don’t let anyone make you feel like you are not good enough because of who you are, or where you are from.
Do you fancy branching out in another avenue beyond acting e.g. Producing or Directing?
I’d loved to continue working as a writer and a dramaturg, and to have a bit more time to spend on that. Sadly I would be a rubbish producer.
What was the last stage show you saw and really enjoyed?
Godot is a Woman by Silent Faces, it’s a hilarious and surprisingly moving. It’s returning to the Edinburgh Fringe this year, hugely recommend it.
Favourite line from the show?
“What makes you who you are? Your face, or what you do?”
What are the nicest/weirdest things you have ever received from fans?
I received a lovely message from a young ginger girl who used to be picked on for her hair and being pale, and said seeing me made her feel confident. It made me pretty emotional.
Can you tell us what you will be up to next?
I’m currently playing Biddy in Great Expectations which is on BBC iplayer and FX in America. When this tour finishes I’ll just be having a big sleep!