Interview with Mark Rylance

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What was your first impression of the character of Olivia? Answer

How did this impression change as the season progressed? Answer

Olivia's dress alters in Act IV. How does this costuming decision relate to the character's journey throughout the play? Answer

Why is Olivia so adamant that she ‘cannot’ love Orsino? Answer

How would you describe Olivia's position in relation to Sir Toby Belch and Malvolio? Answer

Malvolio threatens revenge in the final scene of Twelfth Night. Would it be true to say Shakespeare anticipated the trials of 1642 by casting a shadow over the end of the comedy? Answer

How do you think might Olivia respond to Malvolio's threats of revenge? Answer

Twelfth Night has had a long run. What are the challenges facing any actor who has to sustain a performance over a long period of time? Answer

In what ways did the particular playing conditions at the Globe help you sustain your performance? Answer

The possibility of touring Twelfth Night is being discussed. How would you feel about returning to the character of Olivia? Answer

You played Hamlet on tour in Italy. Twelfth Night can be interpreted as having a melancholic aspect; do you see any parallels between Hamlet's character and Olivia? Answer

In what ways does the use of original practices affect productions at the Globe? Answer

Would it be true to say that Twelfth Night lends itself particularly to an original practices production? Answer

Different design schemes have been proposed to decorate the Globe Theatre auditorium. What are your thoughts on the decoration of the auditorium, and how does the present décor affect choices about the style of a production? Answer

What are your plans for next season at the Globe? Answer

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