Q&A: A Beautiful View

Amy Rutherford and Becky Johnson in Volcano/BeMe Theatre's A Beautiful View by Daniel MacIvor. Photo by Hilda Lobinger.

After a 2012 European debut in Munich, Ross Manson's take on Daniel MacIvor's 2005 play A Beautiful View is opening in Toronto this week in a new co-production presented by Volcano Theatre and BeMe Theatre (Munich) at Factory Studio Theatre.

An exploration of life and friendship, the play stars Amy Rutherford and Becky Johnson and features a new score by Munich-based composer Krister Schuchardt.

We caught up with Rutherford to find out more about her role in this meaningful piece.

Theatromania: Tell us about A Beautiful View. What inspired Volcano and BeMe Theatre to remount this play?

AR: A Beautiful View tells the story of two women who become spiritually entwined after an accidentally romantic encounter with each other. It's funny, moving and poignant. After its success in Munich, we couldn't wait to bring it home and share it.

Theatromania: How would you describe the new production in a few sentences?

AR: Our production of A Beautiful View is different from any other because we are different women and our relationship to each other is unique. Becky Johnson is one of the most talented improvisers I have ever seen and I've always been a fan. Audiences know her for being wildly funny and quirky, but in this show she reveals a whole new side of herself as a performer that is heartrending and true.

Theatromania: You play L, one of two young women in the story. Can you tell us a bit about your character and what motivates her?

AR: L has a hard time coping with outward emotion and generally retreats from it. She describes herself as a "practical person," perhaps because her mother was an alcoholic and her father left when she was four, so she learned early on how to take care of herself. L struggles to understand why she needs M and why their elusive relationship is one of the most significant of her life.

Theatromania: What are some of the challenges you've experienced working on this piece?

AR: Daniel Macivor originally wrote the part of L for Tracy Wright. Tracy was and remains one of my favourite actresses, so every line I spoke I'd think: "Tracy would have done it better." It took me a while to make it my own.

Theatromania: What do you hope audiences take away from the performance?

AR: I hope that audiences will laugh and be moved. I hope that they will be transported. And ultimately, I hope that they will leave the theatre feeling a greater appreciation for their loved ones.

See Amy Rutherford in A Beautiful View from February 27 to March 9 at Factory Studio Theatre. Visit volcano.ca for more information and to buy tickets.

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