Known for her powerful presence on screen and now commanding the stage, Nicole Da Silva stars in The Lover and The Dumb Waiter at Ensemble Theatre, bringing Harold Pinter’s darkly fascinating world to life. With a career spanning critically acclaimed TV roles and now a return to her theatrical roots, Nicole brings depth, nuance and a touch of mischief to every performance. We caught up with her to chat about what makes these roles tick, the joys of working with a tight-knit cast, and balancing mum life with the demands of the stage.
Is there a specific moment or scene from The Lover that’s particularly memorable for you in terms of your performance? Why?
I love the moment where Sarah completely turns the tables on her husband Richard, and ultimately makes her submit to her fantasy and power.
We all know how much energy it takes to be on stage. Do you have a pre-show “power song” that gets you hyped up? Or do you have a strict routine you follow pre-show?
Each show and performance requires something specific, but I definitely have a regular pre-show physical and vocal warm up. If I were in need of a “power song” I’d go straight to my 90s Hip Hop playlist.
What’s it like working on stage with such a small cast? Is it more intense… or more fun?
It’s wonderful working with such a small team. It lends itself to the intimacy of the situation that unfolds over the course of the play, which is delicious. I’ve loved collaborating with Gareth and Mark on this project, it has been a dream.
Many of our readers are mums who are always juggling — what’s your secret to balancing your work and personal life?
The village! I don’t know how anyone parents without it. My parents are particularly hands on with my daughter which is an absolute gift, and I am so thankful for the extended family and friends who play an active role in my daughter’s life. I couldn’t do it without them. For the most part, I try to leave my work at work (sometimes hard as an actor when you’re learning and reviewing lines outside of work time), but when I’m home I try to be solely focused on my daughter and the always necessary rest and relaxation.
When you’re not on stage or working, how do you love to unwind with your family?
We love getting out in nature, having a silly dance around the kitchen or just enjoying quiet time at home. We also love getting into the ocean if the weather permits, always a brilliant way to unwind.
If you could play any role — from any time period, any genre — what would it be and why?
I always get stumped by these questions! I love variety so I always embrace the roles and genres that do come to me, but I’m currently writing something of my own, which I’m planing to direct, so my next role might be as a director (hopefully).
Coffee or tea backstage or something stronger backstage? And what’s your go-to comfort snack during a long rehearsal day?
Tea! All the way. So comforting and a slower release of caffeine which is much better for performance anxiety than coffee I find. I’m currently in love with Matcha, the best balance of both worlds for me.
Finally, what’s something your fans might be surprised to learn about you?
That I’ve had to learn how to do a beehive and a winged eye for this show, a far cry from previous characters.
Don’t miss your chance to see Nicole Da Silva live on stage — The Lover and The Dumb Waiter are now playing at Ensemble Theatre. Book your tickets today and experience two unforgettable performances in one compelling double bill.