Mellow Drama’s latest play is told entirely by e-mail. In keeping with the electronic theme, actor and director James Calvert witters with Peter Farrugia in Twitter style – that is, in no more than 140 characters.

What’s up?

I’m a Twitter virgin so it’s a struggle to find ways of answering these questions in 140 characters or less. It’s not as easy as it sounds.

Well, what would you rather be doing?

Letting my daughter Abbey entertain me. She’s nearly four and that is apparently the age when your comedy genes really kick in.

So it all comes down to DNA! How long before you realised it was in your blood?

I started acting about 20 years ago but I was soon persuaded to try directing – mostly by those who had seen me act, funnily enough.

And what’s Mellow Drama about?

Comedy. We will only ever produce plays that make people laugh. The way we see it, people already have enough heavy drama in their lives.

How have things been going on your latest project, You’ve Got Hate Mail?

Relatively smoothly, although it’s not easy to rehearse given that the cast don’t get to interact with each other. But we’re good to go.

That sounds promising. What can audiences expect?

It’s very funny. The story is told entirely by e-mail which makes it a bit quirky. And that’s our favourite combination.

How about a little inside information – do the actors have any bad habits that keep you on your toes?

One actor, a good friend in fact, always learns his lines at the very last minute. Terrifying for a director. But he always gets them in.

What about awful actors you’ve had to deal with?

I once acted with a man who had buckets of enthusiasm but the talent of a watermelon. Painful. Then again, he probably thought the same.

There seems to be a lot more quality material around lately. How’s the theatre scene in Malta changed over the last few years?

Dramatically. There are many more theatre companies now and that increased competition means the overall product is improving. Good stuff.

What about hot social topics like divorce, are they good for a laugh?

Absolutely. YGHM briefly tickles the subject of divorce. But that’s coincidence and not Mellow Drama trying to make any statements.

What is it about Malta and censorship in the arts?

It simply shouldn’t happen in a free and democratic society. Freedom of expression is a fundamental right.

Completely agree there. Any tips for aspiring actors and directors?

Learn from others. The little I know about directing I picked up from people much better than me. The rest I make up as I go along.

What are your plans after You’ve Got Hate Mail is done?

A short break then Yes, Prime Minister in February. Meanwhile I think I may start tweeting now that I’ve got the hang of this character limi

You’ve Got Hate Mail is written by Billy Van Zandt and Jane Milmore and directed by James Calvert. It opens at St James Cavalier, Valletta on Friday. For listings and to book, visit www.sjcav.org.

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