Ten Questions with Fiona Shaw

As a lifelong fan of Fiona Shaw‘s mesmerizing performances, I can confidently say that she is a true master of her craft. Her ability to seamlessly transition between stage and screen, while leaving an indelible impression on audiences, is nothing short of extraordinary.

Add That Christmas and Bad Sisters to your watchlist

The Irish actress Fiona Shaw embodies the essence of a multifaceted star, shining equally on stage and screen. From her appearances in beloved films like “Three Men and a Little Lady,” the Harry Potter series, and “My Left Foot,” to her Broadway performances in “Medea” and captivating roles on popular TV shows such as “Killing Eve,” “Fleabag,” and “Bad Sisters,” Shaw consistently makes an impact. At 66 years old, she is now taking on a unique holiday role in the animated film “That Christmas,” a part that, in some ways, feels more personal than any she’s played before.

In 2023, it’s you who will be the main actor in Richard Curtis’s latest animated film titled “That Christmas“. This heartwarming production delves into various holiday family customs. Could you share your own childhood family traditions since you were raised in Cork?

Instead of saying “We do sea swimming,” you could say, “We go for swims in the ocean.

Is there a significant difference between how Irish and English people celebrate Christmas? Absolutely! In Ireland, we tend to be quite communal. I was fortunate enough to grow up in a small city where everyone knew each other. This meant that there were plenty of opportunities for socializing during the Christmas season. I have a feeling that some English Christmases might revolve around people staying at home. However, I believe it’s much more enjoyable when people come together and celebrate with one another.

You’ve been acting for decades — what are the roles that people usually recognise you for?

In New York, folks often approach me about “Medea” or “The Testament of Mary.” New York’s theater scene is quite vibrant, yet it varies with the population. A massive number of people are fans of “Killing Eve,” almost everyone I meet mentions it. With kids, it’s Harry Potter, while older children are more into “Three Men and a Little Lady.” I’ve worked on several children’s films, and I enjoy it. Children are an attentive audience; they watch closely and re-watch content, so they remember every detail of what you’ve done.

You’ve had such a wide range of roles, how do you pick them?

You seek out experiences that capture your interest. Many things fail to do so, often being repetitive versions of something else. However, I’ve had the good fortune to encounter unique opportunities, and I choose those that stand out exceptionally, such as “True Detective: Night Country” or “Bad Sisters”.

Ten Questions with Fiona Shaw

What was it like, joining a tight-knit cast like Bad Sisters for the second series?

They were incredibly warm and friendly. What a great ensemble, we had a blast – I adored playing Angelica! Here’s hoping they produce more. I might not be involved, but I hope they do, it’s simply amazing. I found this series to be remarkably assured. Sharon Horgan has truly juggled things skillfully with it. It’s just fantastic.

In a nod to fellow scribe, I’m curious if collaborating with Richard Curtis, for the first time, checked an item off your creative wishlist?

I rarely share the same thought process, but it’s fantastic that I’ve collaborated with Richard Curtis! It was truly delightful working alongside him; he’s simply wonderful and a joy to be around.

I like picking roles that are really unusual – like The Wagon in Bad Sisters

In the movie “That Christmas“, you portray a stern headmistress named Ms. Trapper. Did any of your past teachers serve as her inspiration?

You went to a Catholic girls’ school in Cork. Were the headmistresses very austere?

One individual went by the name Kate Cahill; she was notably stern. Her deputy was Mary O’Donovan, a woman who has only just passed away at the grand age of 100. Both women were undoubtedly enthusiastic advocates for education, possessing an extensive knowledge on a multitude of subjects!

As a fan, I can’t help but notice the striking loneliness that Ms. Trapper in “That Christmas” and Angelica in “Bad Sisters” share. When preparing for these roles, was there a particular set of acting muscles you tapped into to portray their isolation effectively?

It never crossed my mind that Ms Trapper was like Angelica, but you’re right. They’re people who are institutionalised. But I don’t think they overlap anywhere else.

Is loneliness a side of Christmas that can get overlooked?

I believe this sentiment holds true: Everyone finds Christmas unique in some way. Whether it’s feeling lonely, missing someone, or encountering unexpected problems, it seems like life’s sweeter side is nowhere to be found for many during the holiday season. I cringe when films portray happiness and sugarcoated lives for everyone except the viewer. A more accurate portrayal would be that life ebbs and flows, and Christmas can be an especially peculiar time. If you can find joy and fun within it, though, that’s a wonderful thing. For me, growing up, Christmas wasn’t about escaping people; it was about connecting with them. This is also the message of That Christmas, and I think it’s an important one to remember.

2024-11-28 17:35

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