" Tell stories, change lives.”
Today we chat with River Stevens (he/him) about preparing for and performing in the upcoming production of The VOLITION Experiment, directed by Steven Mitchell Wright and created by River and the fellow Early Career Artists Cohort of 2024. Playing at Theatre Works Explosives Factory from 29th August to 7th September.
Can you describe a typical day of rehearsals for THE VOLITION PROJECT? What is the energy like behind the scenes?
A: A typical day starts with the group checking in with each other, followed by a comprehensive individual and group physical and vocal warm-up. After that, we dive into working on specific parts of the stimulus that we want to expand on and develop. We then come back together to discuss and build on the ideas we've created. The process requires a lot from us—constantly switching between being a performer, creator, and sometimes even a director. The energy is usually ecstatic, though we have our rough patches. At the end of the day, we all leave creatively exhausted but fulfilled. It's what we love to do.
What has been the most challenging aspect of devising and bringing his production to life?
A: The most challenging part has definitely been the creative intensives, where we’d come in day after day, creating new work on the floor. It was creatively demanding and exhausting, and often what we created in the moment didn’t make sense or wasn’t necessarily 'good.' But in terms of the bigger picture and mission, it was worth it. Every now and then, we found the gold within the rubble of creation.
Do you have a favourite line or scene from the play? What makes it stand out to you?
A: Definitely the end of the show. It’s an absolute marathon of a challenge that will leave both the audience and the performers on stage physically exhausted.
How has working with director, Steven Mitchell Wright been?
A: Working with Steven has been an absolute pleasure. He is a mastermind at what he does, and I’ve learned so much from him as an actor, performer, and deviser. Being in the room or on the floor and seeing his brain work is a privilege. The importance of rigor, specificity, commitment, and stakes are just some of the nuggets I’m walking away with.
In what ways has this role challenged you compared to other roles you've undertaken?
A: It’s really forced me to come out of my shell. My character within the show is very complex, but at the same time, I’m playing myself. It’s challenging to switch from playing a character to playing yourself, and that’s something I had to overcome during this process.
Looking back at your journey through this production, what moment or aspect will you carry forward into your future projects?
A: To trust the process and trust your instincts on the floor. Always.
THE VOLITION PROJECT IS THE FIRST PART OF VOLITION - A DOUBLE FEATURE OF NEW, EXPERIMENTAL THEATRE PLAYING AT EXPLOSIVES FACTORY THIS WEEK!
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