DIVA caught up with Tadeo Martinez about playing Snake in this exciting revival of the classic play
BY EMILY O’MULLANE, IMAGES BY MARC BRENNER © RSC.
Being described as Bridgerton’s “on-stage sister”, The School For Scandal, a play originally written by Richard Brinsley Sheridan in 1777, is being given a revival by director Tinuke Craig. The play transports audiences back to the Georgian period where morals have been corrupted and gossip is constantly brewing.
Speaking to Tadeo Martinez, an LGBTQIA-identifying actor who is playing Snake in the play, DIVA has been given an exclusive insight into the exciting new production that will be showing in Stratford-upon-Avon until 6 September 2024.
The School For Scandal is a play with a very rich history with many productions since it was first performed in 1777, in what way do you think that this revival stands out from the rest?
Our version has been “lightly edited” by Tinuke Craig and Jude Christian, which means that if you’ve seen or read the play before, there may be some bits in it that you may not recognize. Historically, the original text is fairly problematic, and I think our version tackles those issues in quite an innovative way. Tinu and Jude have also just done a brilliant job of bringing the heart of the show to the forefront of this production. People have been walking away feeling quite moved.
What have been the most difficult and exciting parts of preparing for the role?
Breaking down the text, figuring out how he walks and speaks. Working with our brilliant movement and voice team to discover how he moves throughout the world and how he spreads scandal. Unpacking how he interacts with his audience and what he actually wants from them. All of this was both equally difficult and very exciting. It has really just been an absolute joy. And, actually, what was particularly exciting to me, was to be given the opportunity to demonstrate that these characters crave, (and can handle), interpretation. Why can’t Snake be a queer Mexican? The beauty of having access to material like this is the opportunity to explore and experiment with it in different ways in order to deliver its message to a broader audience. And also then to allow it to be experienced in a different and maybe even unexpected way. Also, the costume is unreal – that was very exciting. And they let me have sassy gloves and a big fan.
The play is known as being a comedy of manners (a play which questions the morals of a sophisticated society), how do you think the School For Scandal can add to conversations about gossip, reputation and authenticity in today’s society?
I remember having a conversation with Tinu during our first meeting where I mentioned that I felt like this society mirrored the one I grew up in. Everyone was, and is, obsessed with each other: what others are doing, wearing, eating, thinking, etc. And that’s only grown because of the rise of social media. So I think the play invites us to question our owninvolvement and relationship to gossip and authenticity. We’re not trying to say don’t do it – gossip actually started, and is still sometimes used, as a means for survival. We’re just inviting people to reflect: because sometimes we invest so much energy into the experiences of others instead of investing that energy into our own lives and experiences.
How do you think the themes of the play resonate with contemporary audiences, especially those within the LGBTQIA community?
You will always be happier living authentically than you will be pretending to be someone else in order to fit in. We live in an age where it’s so easy to throw on a filter or search for validation anywhere other than within yourself, and I think it’s a gift to be able to see these characters go on these journeys in the play to discover that happiness stems from acceptance: of others and of yourself. People will always find a reason to talk – so let them and live your life how you want to.
Do you have a favourite line or scene from the play and why?
This is a bit of a spoiler; but I really love one of the final exchanges near the end of the play between Sir Peter and Rowley, where Sir Peter says: though when it is known that we are reconciled, people will laugh at me ten times more; and Rowley responds: Let them laugh – and retort their malice only by showing them you are happy in spite of it. The moment is masterfully played by Geoffrey Streatfeild and John Dougall – and I think it’s just a beautiful reminder every night of what I personally would like to take away from this show. And I love the last line of the play as well, which is a new addition by Jude Christian. It is delivered brilliantly by Yasemin Özdemir – but you’ll have to come to see the show to hear that one.
How do you think LGBTQIA representation in theatre has changed, what progress have you witnessed and do you think there are any places where this could still be improved?
Well, I’m an out, gay, working actor – so that I think speaks for itself. I highly doubt I’d have even been seen for a show like this ten years ago; let alone be allowed to play this role in the way I do. This is also me giving a HUGE shout-out to Matthew Dewsbury and the wonderful casting department at the RSC.
How has the cast and crew of the play created a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members during production?
By leading with kindness and curiosity as opposed to judgment. Everyone, top to bottom, has just been a dream. We say all the time how this doesn’t feel like work because it’s such a joy to clock in every day. I just feel unbelievably grateful to be working with this group of humans.
Do you have any LGBTQIA role models who you think have influenced your acting style?
The first one that comes to mind is Sir Ian McKellan; it’s hard to be at the RSC and not think of him and his effortless command of classical text. Andrew Scott has also had a huge influence on me and my work – particularly his work in Vanya. I’ve also been quite moved by Jonathan Bailey, who is not only a brilliant actor, but also such an advocate for LGBTQIA youth.
What tips would you give to young LGBTQIA actors who are just starting their careers?
I think I’d just say don’t be afraid to bring all of yourself into the room – you are allowed and deserve to take up space. And I’d also just say once you walk through a door, be sure to keep it open behind you. When one of us wins, we all win. It’s an uphill climb but the safer and kinder the community you keep and foster, the slightly easier the journey becomes. And always lead with kindness – always.
You can find out more here: rsc.org.uk/the-school-for-scandal/
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