Olivia Williams with her co-star, Matthew Fox. Photo: Hugo Glendinning
From working with the Royal Shakespeare Company, to starring alongside Carey Mulligan in An Education, Olivia Williams has established herself as one of the UK's leading actresses. She is currently on stage in the West End in Neil Labute's In a Forest Dark and Deep. We caught up with the actress to talk about her role in the play.
Tell us about your current role in In a Forest Dark and Deep.
The play is about a brother and sister who are clearing out a cottage in the middle of a forest. I play the sister and we have have an argumentative, sibling relationship. It's a real family drama, but with quite shocking use of language.
What attracted you to this particular role?
I've always admired the producer, Neil Labute, and although I was desperate to work with him in his previous productions, I'm much happier with the one I've got now.
Are you enjoying working alongside Matthew Fox?
Matthew is a seriously great actor and he is right on top of this play. He is such a nice man, I'm very lucky to be working with him.
Can you tell us about any other exciting roles in the pipeline?
I'm exciting about the release of a film I worked on last year called Hanna with Cate Blanchette. That will come out shortly.
Who or what inspires your creatively?
Observing human behaviour is what inspires me. Watching other people is important but my emotional life is also very influential and obviously, painting, films and literature are always and inspiration.
Who would you most like to play on stage or in film?
I've always had a soft spot for Helena from Midsummer's Night Dream. Unfortunately I think I'm probably too old to play that part now!
What makes you happy?
My daughter - she told me a joke the other day. "What's brown and sticky? A stick". That makes me happy!
What makes you sad?
Injustice always makes me sad.
How and where do you do your best work?
It sounds cringeworthy but I think I do my best work when I'm in a group of creative people that are working together and supporting each other.
What is your most treasured piece of clothing or jewellery?
My wedding ring.
Can you describe your style in five words?
I wear what suits me.
What's your fashion weakness?
I love Diane Von Furstenburg wrap dresses - I have too many!
In a Forest Dark and Deep is currently showing at London's Vaudeville Theatre until 4 June 2011.