Writer and performer Lara J. West reveals all things One Kiss and what inspired her to write the joyous and poignant new one women musical.
Writer and performer Lara J. West reveals all things One Kiss and what inspired her to write the joyous and poignant new one women musical.
Lara J. West (Writer and Performer)
What inspired you to write One Kiss?
I guess I just reached the ripe age of…??? and felt I had something to say about the female journey. From girl to older woman and all the experiences in-between. The play is all about the female journey, but it’s also for everyone. After all, we are all born of woman.
The play was originally programmed pre-Covid, so tell us a bit about your journey to B2.
It’s been a rocky road to get here, with two cancellations due to Covid. But that did allow the piece to breathe and develop further, so we’re grateful for that.
What’s it been like working with musicians and an all-female company?
The team we have are incredible. It’s been amazing working with our wonderful musicians Piera Onacko and Alicia Gardener-Trejo.
They are very talented and have added not just their musical skills, but their creativity too. Arranging a live soundtrack to underscore key dramatic moments.
Piera Onacko (Musician) & Alicia Gardener-Trejo (Musican)
Sarah Stacey, our Director, has also been a dream to work with. She always has her eye on the piece as a whole, but perceptively zooms in on the intricate too. She is so smart. Kerry Bradley is such an experienced Designer and has produced a superb set for us to play in.
Sarah Stacey (Director) & Kerry Bradley (Designer)
And Ruth Porter, our Stage Manager, keeps us all in check and is always 10-steps ahead – she’s a star.
What has also been amazing is the straight-down-to-business attitude we all have. Women just want to get it done!
We’ll be joined in production week by the amazing men on our team – Adam, our Lighting Designer, and Alex on Sound.
At this point, and not a moment too soon, I must salute Jen Davis for working with me and our wonderful local contributors to our soundscapes – the real voices of Coventry women. They gave their time, honesty, and commitment and I am most grateful to Giancarla, Remi, Alex, Ange, Carol, Tanya, Elisha and Helen.
What do you hope audience members will take away from the play?
I hope this new play with original music will conjure nostalgia, provoke new thoughts and understanding. But most of all entertain!
One Kiss runs in B2 from Thurs 7 – Sat 9 July. Tickets are available here from just £8.50.
With a live band and original score, this one woman show from Lara J. West promises to be a joyous and poignant evening at the theatre.