Johnetta Eula’Mae Ackles talks about starring alongside Jim Broadbent in A Very Very Very Dark Matter

Johnetta Eula’Mae Ackles is playing the female lead in A Very Very Very Dark Matter opposite Jim Broadbent at the Bridge Theatre (until 6 January 2019).

Johnetta grew up in West Virginia and trained at Drama School in LA and is here in London making her professional stage debut in the role of Marjory, the source of Hans Christian Anderson’s famous fairytales.

We caught up with her back stage to find out more about the show.

Can you tell me about the show?
The show was written by Martin McDonagh. It is an illustration of the hidden dark truth of not only black history but world history during the time of the 1800s, how everyone who wasn’t a white male was inferior to the white male’s dominance. The play is very dark and also very funny.

What part do you play in the show and where does it fit in to the story?
I play Marjorie. She is a special, beautiful, bold, talented, African Pygmy who’s been through enough turmoil as it is, who is forced to live inside of a box inside a creepy attic. Marjorie is the source of Hans Christian Anderson’s famous fairytales.

What’s your favourite part of the whole show and why?
My favourite part of the show is when Hans reads the letter from the King because I get to talk about the inequalities of lowerclass compared to upperclass citizens and get to highlight King Leopold’s atrocities.

What has been a highlight of your career so far?
Definitely working with Matthew Dunster and Martin McDonagh and the cast and crew of A Very Very Very Dark Matter. They bring out the best in me. I am also so enjoying performing at the Bridge Theatre.

Who are your biggest inspirations inside and outside of the industry?
I’m inspired by kind people who are driven to make a difference.

Do you have any pre-show rituals?
Shower, pray, read the Bible, pray again then meditate.

If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life what would it be?
Win again by Nicki Minaj.

It’s coming up to Christmas. Is there anything particular you will be asking Santa for?
For my book to be published, more acting jobs and the opportunity to stay in London.

What’s so special about this production and why should audiences come to see it?
This show was written by Martin McDonagh and directed by Matthew Dunster and I get to play alongside Jim Broadbent and a wonderful cast at each performance. Nothing but hard work, dedication, passion and enlightenment goes into this show every night. This one is one for the ages. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see it.

Thanks for having Tea With Wilma

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