Today we are speaking to Elan about the show The Chaos That Has Been and Will No Doubt Return which starts it’s run tonight at Southwark Playhouse and is there until the 27th September. Today we find out all about this coming of age play.
Hello! Tell us about yourself?
Hello, I am Elan Butler and I’m a Midlands born artist who graduated East 15, representing them in the Spotlight Prize Final 2021. Though I predominantly work as an actor, I also write and compose with my debut musical, Cliffs, being workshopped around youth groups and schools. Outside of theatre, I mostly spend it thinking about my family sausage dog, Crumpet and I am currently in rehearsals for The Chaos That Has Been and Will No Doubt Return that is coming to Southwark Playhouse from 3rd – 27th September.
Tell us about The Chaos That Has Been and Will No Doubt Return?
The Chaos That Has Been and Will No Doubt Return is a coming of age play that explores the bridge between teenage hood and adulthood. Whilst we indulge in the joy of these moments, we also portray the issues within our country surrounding knife crime. It paints a tapestry of violence and joy, and is a raw, real-time collision of friendship and survival. Told with biting wit and lyrical intensity, this production is a powerful exploration of class and identity, with a cracking house party that pulses round the corner!
What can you tell us about the stage set?
It’s bigger, better and bolder. Plus, full of surprises.
Tell us a little bit about the rest of the cast
They’re great, it’s amazing to see how new voices change and adapt a text for the character they’ve built.
What is the most challenging thing about doing the show?
It’s fast. Very fast. You don’t really get a moment to breathe as the performer or audience member. Saying that, that’s the type of theatre I LOVE to watch. (It’s much tougher to be in. But at least I lose calories!)
The best thing about touring the show?
Ask me in 3 months! This is my first tour. However, I’m excited to see audiences from varying regions react to the show and see what differs.
What have been some of the best highlights since doing the show?
One night we hadn’t set costumes right and so we all ended up in the same shirt by the end of the show. Lining up for the bows looked hilarious. Overall, a big highlight for me is whenever I hear the audience laugh.
What is the best reaction you have had from an audience member?
There’s a moment where I have to bring an audience member onstage to dance, one night in Bristol this man barely needed telling, he dived on stage and started migraine skanking.
If people want to follow you on social media where can they find you?
@elanbutler on Instagram for me, and @chalklinetheatre for everything The Chaos That Has Been and Will No Doubt Return related!
Finally in three words why should people come to your show?
I sweat loads.
Welcome to The Phoenix Remix 