Red Speedo by Lucas Hnath is currently showing at the Orange Tree Theatre in Richmond from 13 July 2024 to 10 August 2024. Directed by Matthew Dunster, Red Speedo stars Finn Cole.
This – what you’ve done – has nothing to do with luck
Ray lives to swim. He is within touching distance of international glory and a life-changing sponsorship deal. But everything changes when performance-enhancing drugs are discovered in the club’s refrigerator. As tensions run high, Ray’s brother wants them destroyed, his coach wants to call the authorities, his ex-girlfriend doesn’t want to know, and Ray wants the drugs back.
A thriller played at the breakneck pace of an Olympic sprint, Red Speedo tackles the unforgiving weight of success in a world where the only crime is getting caught.
The Artiscape spoke to Parker Lapaine who plays Lydia.
What attracted you to the script?
I’ve never read anything like it. Everything is in the language. It makes the job easier for us as actors when the script is as genius as this.
Can you tell us about the character you play?
I play Lydia, who’s Rays ex-girlfriend. She’s unbelievably ambitious and idealistic yet sees through the bullshit.
How do you prepare for a role such as this?
I just made sure I was open. Being able to listen to the other actors is key, and more than ever with this play. We really have to trust each other.
What are you most looking forward to about performing in this play?
Working with Finn, Ciaran and Fraser every night.
What do you think an audience will enjoy about the play?
Apart from the fact there’s a pool on stage… I think the fast-paced nature of the show will be super exhilarating to be in the room watching.
