What’s on in Melbourne Theatre this month? Jessica and Ella talk about ‘Caught’ at Red Stitch
Production photo of Jing-Xuan Chan & Jessica Clarke in Caught taken by Jodie Hutchinson.
Ella Caldwell (Artistic Director)
I first brought Caught to the ensemble before the pandemic. I was intrigued by this tricky, heady adventure, and read it at least twice before I was able to form a clear picture of it in my mind.
Of course, I quickly came to love Christopher Chen’s script, and was keen to hear the ensemble's impressions; Jing-Xuan's in particular.
Caught writer Christopher Chen.
Then, when the ensemble decided to program it, Jean Tong immediately came to mind as a potential director. It felt like a good fit for their intelligent, inventive approach to theatre-making.
Actor Jing-Xuan Chan.
I was struck by their response to the work in our early conversations. They were considered, closely tuned in to the themes of the work, and very open to other ideas.
This has been the tone of the production right through from pre-rehearsal to production, with the input of several outstanding contributors. Some of the creative team on Caught are working with us for the first time, and hopefully not the last! Together, they’ve made an elegant, playful world for the piece that ably supports its realisation on stage.
It's just a delight to witness ensemble members who I've worked with in different shows over the years, only now working together for the first time.
Cast and crew of Caught.
The cast’s commitment to their craft is, of course, brilliant. But what really gets me is the pleasure of watching actors who had a direct hand in programming the production getting to realise the work.
It's a play that I really love watching with other people. Each time I see Caught the audience seems to find a different way to delight in it. Of course, there are always some moments that get a similar response, but it’s been amazing to see how each audience has interpreted the puzzle that is playing out before them!
Jessica Clarke
Jess Clarke (Ensemble actor)
When I first read CAUGHT by Christopher Chen, I was fascinated by the play’s ability to surprise. It’s a complex, deeply layered piece about truth, lies, cultural appropriation, art and culture. I’m not exaggerating when I say it was a wild journey in the rehearsal room!
We needed a director who understood the intricacies of the arguments presented, as well as someone who could bring a cheeky sense of humour. Jean Tong was the perfect choice! They have brought exceptional intelligence and playfulness to the show. We really couldn’t have done it without them!
Jean Tong- Director of Caught.
As an Ensemble Member, I’ve trod the St Kilda boards at Red Stitch many times now. But this is the first time I’ve had the pleasure of working with both Jing-Xuan Chan and (founding member) David Whiteley. It’s an absolute joy to share the experience with them, both on and off stage. I’ve learnt a lot in the process of nutting out this play. I think that’s always proof of a successful acting experience.
Jing-Xuan Chan in Caught. Photo by Jodie Hutchinson.
It’s also been a wonderful opportunity to introduce the fantastic Louis Le to Melbourne audiences. Louis is only in his final year of training at QUT, andhe brings such a fun and
youthful energy to the team. He certainly has a very bright future ahead of him!
It’s also been a wonderful opportunity to introduce the fantastic Louis Le to Melbourne audiences. Louis is only in his final year of training at QUT, andhe brings such a fun and youthful energy to the team. He certainly has a very bright future ahead of him!
David Whiteley, Jessica Clarke and Louis Le. Photo by Jodie Hutchinson.
I’m in awe of the creative team who have built such a beautiful world for us to play in. We have been able to ‘peel back the layers of the piece’ with the help of some extraordinary sound, lighting, set and costume. Come and admire the theatre artistry of Silvia Shao (Set Design and Costume), James Gales and Edwin Cheah (Sound), and Lisa Mibus (Lighting) for yourself!
Louis Le in Caught. Photo by Jodie Hutchinson.
We’ve got two more weeks of performances left, and we’d love to see you there!
The Australian Premiere season of Caught by Christopher Chen opened on 20 August and runs through to 11 September. Bookings redstitch.net