Camille Lucy Ross explores demons and darkness in black comedy “Big Bobby. Little Bobby”

Thursday, August 27th, 2015 at 2:03 pm | Alumni Interviews, News & Events

Camille Lucy Ross graduated from the Gaiety School of Acting full-time course in 2009 and has been busy performing, writing and developing theatre ever since!  The one-woman Fringe show she has co-written and performs in, Big Bobby. Little Bobby, runs at Smock Alley Theatre Boys School from the 14th to the 19th of September.

Can you give us a brief synopsis of the show and your role in it.

Big Bobby. Little Bobby is a dark comedy about a young woman with an alter ego named Little Bobby. Little Bobby is sort of cross between a demon and an inner child- type figure! As well as dealing with self destructive behaviour she also has a dysfunctional mother who escapes reality through games and alcohol. Bobby wants to get close to her neighbour but gets held back by Little Bobby, Mammy & her own general awkwardness. It’s a one woman show, essentially about growing up and making friends with our demons.

My role is performer and co-writer. I have collaborated with Kelly Shatter in writing the show and she’s also directing it.

Do you enjoy playing characters who are somewhat off centre?

Yes, I’d say I’m attracted to characters that are somewhat “off centre”. I’m interested in people’s coping mechanisms and I’m fascinated by the extreme coping mechanisms some people create in order to deal with their problems. I’m interested in the idea that people are essentially the same so even if you look at people who seem to have an extreme mental condition I like to try understand, on some level, how I might relate to that type of behaviour. I like to believe there’s a bit of everyone in all of us. l always enjoy a challenge too..

You’ve enjoyed great success in the Fringe in previous years – are you looking forward to being involved again?

Yeah, Fringe is one of my favourite times of year- it’s like Christmas for me! SO excited the speigeltent is back too! I love how you feel the atmosphere of Fringe around town and I love trying to see as many shows as possible. Doing a show in the festival is always a bit manic, it’s terrifying and exhilarating all at the same time!

Who do you think “Big Bobby. Little Bobby” will appeal to?

Fans of dark comedy, people who like a combination of creepy and cute, anyone interested in physical storytelling, new writing and awkward humour.

Can you give me three words to describe the play?

Amusing. Endearing. Unsettling.