Glitterbitch Meets: Colin Morgan

A Prayer for My Daughter is a pretty complicated play. Tell us about it.

When I first read the play, I loved it. There's just so much going on and so many layers. Each one of the characters has their on story which is seperate from the main plot of the play. They all change in some way by the end of it. I feel like I'm learning more about the play each time I perform it. Especially Jimmy, the character I play.

You play a drug addict who slowly loses his mind on stage. You must be exhausted after the show?

It can get pretty tiring. But after you've been doing the show for a few nights, you get into it. I don't take the character home with me. After I've finished, I leave everything behind.

Are you going to stay in theatre? Or do you want to move into film as well?

Well, I've done three plays back to back now which has been great. I love the live aspect of theatre. You get an immediate reaction. That said, I would like to do more film.

Speaking of immediate reaction, does it bother you that you get naked on stage?

You know, no one has ever asked me about that! I feel like everyone avoids the subject. Even in rehearsals people would skirt around the issue. I've become fine with it now. Although the first time all I could think was 'Oh my god, oh my god, I'm getting naked on stage' and I'm pretty sure some very random lines came out of me, but I got used to it. It's not me doing it. It's Jimmy. I have to detach myself from it.

What's your favourite part of London?

I haven't really seen that much of it you know? The first couple of weeks of a new show is pretty hectic. I'll get to more exploring soon. I've been told that Richmond park is really lovely. I'm from Omagh and I miss the countryside so if I can I'll try and hang out in the park with friends.

Favourite bar? Last time you go drunk and fell over?

I haven't really been to many places yet. I do like the Windmill though which is right next to the Young Vic. They do great Thai food. I don't drink when I'm performing so when I do, it can go to my head a little. I was pretty drunk after finishing All About My Mother. Oh, and on my birthday which is on New Years Day so everyone is up for a party.

What are the best and worst things about London?

I love that entertainment scene. You can do anything in this city. You can't get bored. I don't like the crowds though. I get really frustrated with them. But the stupid thing is, everyone in the crowd is frustrated.

Do you dunk biscuits in your tea?

I don't drink tea. I do eat biscuits though.

You can see Colin at the Young Vic Theatre in A Prayer for My Daughter until 15th March. The Young Vic is on The Cut next too Waterloo station. We suggest you go and see it. Not because of the nakedness. We have more integrity than that. It's also pretty darn good and we think you're going to be seeing much more of Mr. Morgan.

Image from Keith Pattison.