Adelaide’s theatre scene is in for a treat as Ansuya Nathan returns to the stage after an extended stint in the U.S. Known for her ability to weave humour and emotional depth into complex roles, this versatile actor is stepping into the spotlight in David Williamson’s latest dark comedy, The Puzzle. Back on home soil, Ansuya brings a wealth of experience from performing across Australia, the UK, and the US, as well as a fresh perspective following the recent challenges in the global acting industry.
In this exclusive interview, she shares her insights on returning to Adelaide, the thrill of performing in a David Williamson premiere, and how her multifaceted career continues to shape her approach to storytelling.
Welcome back to Adelaide! After years in the U.S., how does it feel to be performing on home turf again, especially in a David Williamson premiere like The Puzzle?
It’s absolutely thrilling to be back in Adelaide, especially with a play that brings such a delightful lens to love, marriage, sex, and all the quirks in between. The past year in the U.S. has been quite the rollercoaster, with the dual acting and writing strikes causing the entire industry to come to a standstill. Now that things are starting to slowly recover, having the chance to perform here feels like a real gift. I genuinely love being in the rehearsal room and on stage – it’s my happy place – and David Williamson’s work is a treasure trove of insights into what makes us human. It’s such a joy to explore the highs and lows of life through his characters.
Your character, Mandy, navigates the complexities of marriage and polyamory on a “lifestyle” cruise. How did you approach this role, and what drew you to Mandy’s story?
When I dive into a role, I start by really getting to know the character’s journey and the emotional truth in each scene. Mandy’s world gets turned upside down when her husband suggests a cruise, and from there, we see all sides of her personality come to life. The cruise setting acts like a pressure cooker, bringing out her complexities and contradictions. Embracing Mandy’s nuances has been a great way for me to reflect on my own views about relationships and what they mean to me—though I must say, I have no plans to take a swingers cruise anytime soon!
The Puzzle delves into themes of desire, secrecy, and second chances. How do you think audiences will connect with these themes today?
These themes are truly timeless and resonate in every culture. Storytelling has always been fascinated by desire, secrecy, and the opportunity for second chances—just look at classics from the Bible to the Mahabharata to Oedipus. All the juiciest stories give us a chance to explore these themes. Though none quite with the comedic panache as The Puzzle. David brings these themes to life with his signature wit, which I hope will give audiences a chance to laugh at themselves through the onstage antics of the characters.
You’ve worked across stage, screen, and as a writer. How has this multifaceted career shaped your understanding of storytelling and your acting choices?
Working in a variety of roles across the creative industry has helped me see the bigger picture, which enables me to serve the story better. I’m constantly looking at the effects of my acting choices and whether they align with the greater story we are telling as an ensemble. With David’s work, you can trust that everything you need to know about the character or the world is in the text and all you have to do is dig a little deeper. If I ever hit a snag, going back to the text often reveals where I’ve missed the mark. My 20 plus years in the industry has also made me more selective about the projects I take on, especially when leaving family is involved. However, I will always jump at the chance to work with the State Theatre Company. They are my artistic family!
You’ve worked with acclaimed comedians and in different genres. How do you balance the humour and emotional depth required in a dark comedy like The Puzzle?
There’s an old acting adage that comedy is just tragedy with higher stakes, and I find that to be 100% accurate. Humour stems from genuine emotional truths, and when the stakes are high, character reactions are then heightened, and laughter often follows. While it’s important to anticipate the audience’s response, playing into that too much can lead to the comedy falling flat. It’s a bit of a tightrope walk—staying present with my scene partner while being aware of the audience’s energy, where they want to laugh and giving them the space to do so. After all, that’s why we are here! Each performance brings its own surprises. In a comedy there is always a third unpredictable scene partner: the audience.
As someone who’s lived and worked in diverse locations like Australia, the UK, and the US, how has this global experience influenced your perspective as an actor and creator?
My experiences have profoundly shaped my understanding of storytelling, especially as an Indian-Australian creative. I strive to uncover universal truths in my work, believing that specificity in emotional perspectives enhances universality. Representation is crucial in the arts; it allows diverse voices and experiences to be seen and heard, fostering a richer narrative landscape. As an actor and writer, I feel a responsibility to reflect the complexities and diversity of our society. People want to see themselves on stage and screen, and they seek connection through those stories. While it’s essential to tackle challenging themes, I always focus on the heart of the narrative – and the importance of inclusivity in driving it forward. By embracing our diverse backgrounds, we not only elevate our storytelling but also encourage others to share their own unique journeys.
The Puzzle
Until 12th of October, 2024
Dunstan Playhouse, Adelaide
