10.39°C Taking over as director mid-production is no small task, but for Paul T. Davies, it was an opportunity he couldn’t resist. As The Killing of Sister George prepares to take the stage at the Headgate Theatre, Paul reflects on the play’s history, sharp humour, and lasting impact. Keep Colchester Cool’s theatre editor and director of the play speaks to Keep Colchester Cool founder Ben Howard about bringing this classic back to life.
Paul, we usually see you reviewing theatre shows for Keep Colchester Cool, but this time, you’re in the director’s chair for The Killing of Sister George. How did you come to be involved in this production?
Paul T. Davies: It was quite unexpected! I wasn’t the original director, but I stepped in after the previous director had to withdraw due to ill health. We’re all thinking of him and hope he makes a full recovery. Taking on a production like this mid-way is always a challenge, but as soon as I read the play, I knew I wanted to direct it.
The Killing of Sister George first hit the stage in the 1960s. What was it about the script that made you want to take it on?
It’s such a fascinating piece of theatre history. When it was first staged in 1965, it was groundbreaking – the first British play to explore a lesbian relationship. But at the time, strict censorship meant it had to be quite discreet to avoid being banned. What’s brilliant is that audiences initially saw it as quite shocking, but when it moved to the West End, people started to realise how funny it actually was. The humour runs throughout, but there’s also a darker side, particularly in how the relationships unfold.
Do you think the play has taken on new meaning in 2024?
Absolutely. Back then, the focus was on the fact that the play dared to portray a same-sex relationship at all. But now, with a modern perspective, we see so much more – especially when it comes to the themes of power and toxicity in relationships. We understand those dynamics in a different way today, and that adds new layers to the play.
But at its heart, it’s still a dark comedy, full of sharp wit and biting humour.
You’ve inherited not just the play, but also the cast and creative team. How has that shaped your approach?
I’ve been really lucky. This is an incredible cast, and they’ve already built a strong foundation. What we’ve discovered together is just how subtly the play shifts in tone. One minute, you’re laughing at these razor-sharp one-liners, and the next, there’s a real emotional weight. That contrast is what makes it so compelling.
You’ve timed this production to coincide with LGBT+ History Month. Was that an important factor in bringing the play to the stage now?
Definitely, it’s the 60th anniversary of the play, and it feels right to revisit it at a time when LGBTQ+ stories are still so relevant. It’s a way of looking back at how far we’ve come while also acknowledging the struggles that still exist. And more than anything, it’s just a great piece of theatre – funny, unsettling, and deeply engaging.
When you’re not directing, you’re busy writing, reviewing, and acting. What’s next for you after this production?
I’m stepping back on stage in Tartuffe, which will be a nice change of pace! But I’ll also be keeping up with my theatre writing and reviews. It’s great to be part of Colchester’s theatre scene in so many different ways.
We can’t wait to see the show. Thanks for chatting, Paul!
The Killing of Sister George runs at Headgate Theatre, Colchester, CO2 7AT, from Wednesday 26th February to Saturday 1st March 2025, including a matinee performance. Don’t miss this chance to see a bold and darkly funny classic brought to life. For tickets and more information, visit the Headgate Theatre website.
Photos below are from the rehearsals of The Killing of Sister George.
