Interview: Director Andy Sandberg on Operation Epsilon

Written by Alan Brody and directed by Andy Sandberg, Operation Epsilon runs 15th September to 21st October at Southwark Playhouse Elephant, London. This gripping play which is set at the close of World War II – the dawn of the atomic age is based on actual transcripts of secretly recorded conversations.

Ten of Germany’s foremost nuclear scientists have been captured by the Allies and are been held somewhere in the English countryside so the Allies can find out how close the Nazis are to making an atomic bomb.

The Artiscape spoke to award winning director Andy Sandberg about the upcoming production.

What attracted you to the script by Operation Epsilon?

Sandberg: I love a story that tackles complex issues – a play that leaves audiences discussing the ideas raised for a long after their time in the theatre. That is what is so compelling about Operation Epsilon, not to mention the fact that it’s a piece of history I knew very little about when I first received an early draft of the script.

This is a ‘big’ play in terms of the subject matter it addresses, but also in terms of scale, and it’s an opportunity to direct a true ensemble piece that explores complex relationships (and some huge egos) with an incredible cast of characters.

What are the challenges in directing Operation Epsilon?

Sandberg:  It’s a blessing and a curse to explore a story based in actual history, as we want to honour the history and the science while always prioritising the humanity and dramatic arc of the characters.

That said, the challenges in directing this piece are also some of its most exciting opportunities. With a true ensemble piece like this, each character’s perspective is quite unique, which means tracking a seemingly infinite set of relationships and conflicts.

It’s also a large, multi-level set design in a relatively intimate space, which is thrilling but also challenging.

What, if any, research do you do when directing a true story like this?

Sandberg:  I’ve been working on this play for nearly fifteen years with the playwright, Alan Brody, and I’ve done quite a bit of reading and research on the history over the years, in addition to studying the actual transcripts on which the play is based.

That said, I’ve deliberately tried not to revisit those too often, because my responsibility as director is to tell the story of the play through the lens of the audience. Plus some of the ‘historical’ accounts are actually somewhat subjective interpretations, and this play even addresses the question of who has the privilege to write and define history.

I encourage each actor to think selfishly in terms of their research on their particular character, but then to leave much of that at the door. I have loved seeing the cast dive deep into their homework, but certain learned facts can be a red herring.  Alan has been very careful to vet the ‘facts and figures’ with notable scientific colleagues and historians.

My primary job to view the play through a lens that has a primary focus on the characters and the humanity. There are certain dramatic liberties taken, but much that has been adapted from the actual transcripts still remains in the play. 

One fun bit of research we all did together for this production was to visit Farm Hall in Godmanchester, where the play is set. It’s rare to have an opportunity like that, and we were able to bring the entire cast up to experience this special place where these iconic figures once were held captive for six months.

What do you think an audience will take away from this play?

Sandberg:  My hope is that audiences will be haunted by the ideas and questions raised in the play, while also recognising the relevance of this unknown piece of history.

It’s a truly fascinating character study that I think creates a really powerful ensemble drama – plus it’s meant for an enjoyable evening at the theatre.

Gyuri Sarossy, who plays Heisenberg, has said a few times he feels the play reads like a thriller, and I love that description. It’s also an incredible cast so I think the audience will be talking about the extraordinary performances and how well this company works together as a unit – even when their characters may not all get along so well.

What are you looking forward to about this upcoming production at Southwark Playhouse?

Sandberg:  I am particularly excited to share this play with UK audiences, as it’s a story set in England. It’s long been a dream of ours to bring Operation Epsilon to London, and we’re thrilled to be premiering it in Southwark Playhouse’s new ‘Elephant’ space, which allows for our expansive two-level set while still creating a sense of intimacy amidst this rather epic play.

The play was well received in America, and I’m excited to see how this story resonates with UK audiences. It’s all very exciting!