New Kiln Theatre show is ‘more than just a play’, says star Claire Goose

Actress Claire Goose said the first show at the newly refurbished and renamed Kiln Theatre was “more than just a play”.

The star, 43, who made her name in shows including Casualty, was one of the four actors to share the stage at the Kilburn venue’s opening night.

Goose, right, said: “It’s been amazing, it’s been much more than just a play experience.

“There has been a big build-up and it’s been very special to be part of something that’s not just a new play but also one that is opening the theatre. Everything has felt very special because we are the first and we’ll always have that.”

The theatre, which was previously called the Tricycle, has had a two-year £7 million revamp, with more modern lighting and seating for bigger audiences. Artistic director Indhu Rubasingham, who directed the play, said the theatre reopening was “deeply emotional”. She added: “It was touch and go. I didn’t know if we were going to open in time.“

The play, by Alexis Zegerman, revolves around two couples — one mixed-race and one Jewish — trying to get their daughters a place in an over-subscribed church school. Rubasingham said: “I did this play first as I felt it was a real statement of intent. It’s a political play, it’s a personal play, it’s a new play.

“It was relevant two years ago and it’s become even more relevant as it’s about how we turn on each other when resources get reduced.”