Exploring Depths: An Intimate Look into 'Girls & Boys' with Elena Lozonschi

Exploring Depths: An Intimate Look into 'Girls & Boys' with Elena LozonschiPhoto byGoogle

Can you share a brief overview of "Girls & Boys" and its central themes?

"Girls & Boys" by Dennis Kelly is a powerful one-woman play that tells the story of a woman who meets her husband, has two beautiful children, and navigates the ups and downs of family life. The narrative starts with humor and warmth, sharing charming anecdotes, but it takes a dark turn, revealing a heartbreaking tragedy. The play explores complex relationships, gender differences, and the impact of personal struggles. This deeply emotional journey resonated with me, and I hope it touched audiences just as profoundly.

What initially drew you to this particular play by Dennis Kelly?

It was the profound emotional impact it had on me from the very first read. I had to stop and reflect on the intense feelings it stirred within me. The play challenges the easy, obvious conclusions and highlights the imperfections and mistakes of both characters. It was important to me to present this nuanced perspective, avoiding a simplistic men vs. women narrative. This complexity and depth were what compelled me to bring this powerful story to life on stage.

How did you prepare for this one-woman role in "Girls & Boys"?

It involved a thorough text analysis, character backstory development, a wild imagination and daily vocal and physical conditioning. Building a backstory for each character, including the protagonist and her family, was crucial to grounding my performance in authenticity. This process was intense yet immensely fulfilling, allowing me to fully embody the complexities of the play with authenticity and depth.

What were some of the most challenging aspects of performing a solo show?

The biggest challenge was maintaining the dynamic engagement with the audience. It was crucial for me to remember that it wasn't just about reciting lines but creating a dialogue, albeit one-sided, where each word I spoke was a response to an unspoken question from the audience, rather than a passive narration of the script. It required a constant awareness and responsiveness that added color and immediacy to each moment of the performance.

Conversely, what did you find most rewarding about this experience?

Immersing myself in this production taught me so much about my own abilities and strengths. I learned to trust myself and my instincts, and to believe that I could successfully take on such a challenging role. It was incredibly empowering to see the culmination of my hard work and dedication come to life on stage, and it has given me a newfound sense of assurance in my craft as an actor.

How did you come to collaborate with Hraban Luyat on this project?

I was extremely impressed by Hraban's extraordinary performance as the lead in Mike Bartlett's play "Bull," and knew immediately I wanted to collaborate with him. Our recent project together was Dennis Kelly's "Girls & Boys." Hraban is not only an exceptional actor but also an expert in character work, which has always impressed and inspired me. Knowing his approach and work ethic, I felt confident in seeking his guidance for "Girls & Boys." Working alongside Hraban enriched the creative process and contributed significantly to the depth and authenticity of the performance.

Can you describe the creative process you shared with Hraban Luyat? How did you work together to bring this story to life?

Hraban and I did extensive and meticulous table work sessions, focusing on understanding the character's motivations. Our discussions and rehearsals were instrumental in shaping the rhythm and emotional flow of the performance, ensuring that every aspect of the storytelling felt genuine and impactful. His insight was instrumental in bringing the complexities of "Girls & Boys" to life on stage.

What was your goal in terms of the audience's experience and takeaway from the performance?

My goal was to create an immersive experience for the audience, one that encouraged them to engage with the subtext and draw their own conclusions. In depicting such profound and tragic events, I wanted to offer a different perspective, encouraging viewers to consider multiple angles before forming opinions. It was important to me that the audience left with a deeper understanding and empathy, having had the opportunity to reflect on the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of our actions.

Were there any memorable responses from the audience that stood out to you?

Definitely, but the one that stood out the most to me was the complete silence at the end of the show. It was incredibly powerful and it indicated to me that the performance had moved them profoundly, perhaps prompting introspection or contemplation. As an actor, seeing such a response affirmed the impact of the storytelling and the emotional journey we had shared together.

What advice would you give to other actors considering taking on a solo show?

My advice to other actors considering doing a solo performance is simple: Just do it. Embrace the challenge—it will teach you to trust your instincts and push your boundaries, ultimately helping you grow into a more versatile and resilient performer. It's an experience that will undoubtedly shape you into a better version of yourself both on and off stage.

What upcoming projects are you excited about, and do you plan to collaborate with Hraban again in the future?

I have a few upcoming projects lined up, but the one I’m most excited for is another collaboration with Hraban, on a unique production of "Macbeth". This version integrates the audience into the creative process, making the performance incredibly engaging. The interactive approach not only promises a fresh perspective on the classic play but also presents new challenges and opportunities for us as actors. We'll need to be flexible and responsive, creating a dynamic and immersive theatrical experience that truly involves everyone in the room.

Where can we see more of your work and keep up with what’s going on in your life?

I am not a big social media person, but I do have a website that I update regularly: www.elenalozonschi.com and you can also follow me on Instagram @elenalozonschi.