The National’s Olivier Theatre is currently shaking to the chortles, guffaws and full-on echoing belly laughs created by the revival of Restoration comedy The Beaux’ Stratagem. Awash with plotting, cajoling, suggestion and silliness, it is a tale of penniless gentlemen attempting to line their pockets, of disguised highwaymen trying to fill their wallets, of dubious innkeepers striving to fill their coffers. You get the picture.
Yet amid the silliness, schemes, sauciness and one-upmanship is Mrs Sullen, a strong, sassy woman trapped in a loveless marriage in an age well before the acceptability of divorce.
Far from timid acceptance of her lot, Susannah Fielding fills her mind with a quick wit, her spleen with tenacity and her belly with fire. Hers is the grounding role around which all the frivolity can orbit.
It is another sterling performance from an actress who continues to turn heads and make a name for herself. Just last year she was laden with acclaim for her performance as a celebrity Portia in the Almeida Theatre staging of The Merchant Of Venice. Before that it was A Midsummer Night’s Dream with David Walliams and Sheridan Smith, American Psycho with Matt Smith and All New People with Scrubs star Zach Braff.
Hers is a cunningly built career full of stunning performances and intriguing productions.
As she adds to the acclaim, we quizzed the actress, discovering more about The Beaux’ Stratagem, her globetrotting childhood and her love of a good piece of Battenberg.
What drew you to The Beaux’ Stratagem?
I’ve always loved Restoration comedy, but in the first scene I got a sense that this play also had a real message. The combination was irresistible.
How would you describe your character, Mrs Sullen?
She’s a witty, strong and intelligent woman, with feminist ideals stuck in an unhappy marriage in an age where divorce was illegal.
How is working at the National Theatre?
Having worked here on my first job and then coming back here a few years later I can honestly say it’s the loveliest place to work. It’s a friendly, inspiring building and the repertory aspect means you can still have a bit of a life because you get some nights off. I feel very lucky to be back here.
In a production packed with fun and humour, how tricky is it to find the emotional pain of a woman trapped in a loveless marriage?
Humour is always laced with sadness and actually it’s a great gift as an actor to play a part which can move people and also make them laugh. I feel very lucky to be inhabiting this role ‘til September.
What is your favourite moment in the show?
I have many but I do love the massive fight in the show, there’s an amazing live soundtrack and almost the whole cast are on stage so the Olivier is just buzzing with energy and a million things going on all once. I’d love to watch it actually!
Rupert Goold was calling out for you to win awards for your Portia in The Merchant Of Venice. How does it feel to have that type of support?
I feel incredibly lucky to have the backing of people like Rupert. I’ve had some wonderful opportunities and I hope I’ve seized them, it all takes time though and to keep believing in yourself even when things are tough.
What sparked your interest in performing?
I’ve always loved performing but I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to do lots of theatre while I did my A-levels at Christ’s Hospital School. It’s an amazing means-tested boarding school with fantastic facilities including a globe-style theatre.
What is the finest performance you have seen?
Oh God, there have been so many. I was really blown away recently by Eva Noblezada in Miss Saigon, such a demanding part and she really moved me.
If you could create a fantasy production to star in, who would you cast, who would direct and what would it be?
I honestly can’t, you never know what’s going to be wonderful about a job until you’re doing it. Every job is so different and special for different reasons. That’s what I love about it.
What do you do when you’re not performing or rehearsing?
I’m happiest pottering at home in the garden with my cat and my boyfriend. Or drinking red wine with my girlfriends.
What is your fondest childhood memory?
When I was eight my mum and I went backpacking around Australia. I remember stroking a baby kangaroo and seeing the Blue Mountains. We travelled a lot when I was young and for that I’m very grateful. It gives you big horizons.
Who or what has inspired you?
My mum for her strength and resilience. People who are honest and are willing to speak the truth despite the consequences.
Do you have any regrets?
I’ve wasted a lot of tears on people who haven’t shown me respect. That’s all part of growing up though, learning who’s got your back and how to spot the ones who don’t.
Do you have any theatrical superstitions?
I normally develop some kind of routine like running through the first scene or having a bottle of Lucozade before the show. It’s silly but it’s all about managing nerves I guess.
Have you made any sacrifices for the sake of your career?
Lots of weddings and birthdays have been missed and holidays cancelled. Thankfully I have very understanding friends and family.
What will always, without fail, bring a smile to your face?
A cup of tea and some Battenberg cake from someone I love.
What would you choose as a last meal?
A really good pasta carbonara. The ultimate comfort food.
What book, film or album would you recommend to a friend?
Rohinton Mistry’s A Fine Balance; it broke my heart but was worth it.
Do you have any advice for young actors?
Be you; don’t pretend to be what you think people want. Chances are you’ll get it wrong anyway. Work hard and always be proactive.
If you weren’t an actor, what would you be?
A veterinary nurse. I’m a huge animal lover.
The Beaux’ Stratagem is running at the National Theatre, Olivier until 20 September. You can book tickets through us here.