The world premiere of Glacier is hitting the stage at Old Fire Station in Oxford next month. Written by award-winning writer and comedian Alison Spittle, this dark comedy theatre show is an ode to friendship, wild swimming and seeking solace at Christmas. Ahead of the run, we spoke to actor and writer Debra Baker, who is playing Dawn.
Tell us a bit about Glacier.
Glacier is a warm and funny play about three women who meet on various Christmas days over the years, at a lake where they go wild water swimming. It’s written by Alison Spittle, who does stand up, so has some great comedy in it.
What makes Glacier different from other Christmas shows?
Glacier isn’t a traditional Christmas show about Christmas or with Christmas themes; it’s set at Christmas, and is about three very different women who meet by chance and are negotiating a new friendship.
Can you describe your character Dawn in three words?
Dawn is sarcastic, direct and lonely
How are you finding rehearsals so far?
We’ve only been rehearsing for a week, but so far it’s been a joy and lots of fun. It’s a mostly women team, which has been different for me and very nice. We had lots of fun on our day exploring movement and ‘swimming’ but I don’t want to give too much away. You’ll have to come and see it! Everyone on the team and at the Old Fire Station has been kind, generous and open, and it’s been so lovely to come to Oxford. What a gorgeous city; quiet, polite, friendly and safe. I’m enjoying the autumn walks into work.
What’s your favourite line from the show?
“That Jill lady has caused quite a kerfuffle”. It’s not necessarily a funny line, but its the context in which it’s said, and how Dawn uses it to deflect the blame. How do you want audiences to react to the show? I would love the audience to leave feeling they’ve had a fun night and been entertained, and also appreciative of their friends and relationships that they already have. I hope that the show may give the audience a bit more empathy for people who are different to them, and help them try to be a bit more understanding.
Glacier is at Old Fire Station Monday 4 – Saturday 23 December 2023, tickets and more information can be found here: https://oldfirestation.org.uk/
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