Arts: Mona Goodwin talks of her latest role at Watford Palace Theatre

Based on a Persian folk tale thought to have inspired Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Laila - The Musical, is a bittersweet story of star-crossed lovers and feuding families. The story, which originated in the 7th Century, has been passed down through verse and song over the centuries. Now the creators of the award-winning musical Britain’s Got Bhangra, Rifco Arts retell this great, eastern love story, giving it a modern twist.

Laila is taking shelter from a raging storm in an old book shop and finds a book with her name on it. As she reads the book, Laila becomes consumed by the story and soon embarks on a whole new journey - but one within an old story.

This story has hardly been told in the West so we ask Mona to tell us all about it.

Can you tell me about Laila, who is she?

Our Laila is a free-spirited, strong young woman who is confined by the restrictions her family impose on her. Although it is an ancient tale, our Laila has a contemporary edge as many of the plays issues still effect women today.

I understand Laila is based on a Persian folk tale, were you aware of this love story before rehearsals began?

I actually wasn’t, which is amazing as the story dates back to the 7th Century and there are different versions of it from all over the world. It was fascinating to discover that Laila Majnu is actually thought to have been the inspiration behind Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

What research did you do for the role?

I read lots of versions of the story to prepare, which really vary according to the country of origin. However our adaptation is quite different as Pravesh Kumar has taken a really interesting slant and written it through Laila’s eyes, whilst the original very much focuses on the journey of her lover Majnu.

Laila is a musical - have you had a lot of experience with musicals before?

I don’t normally work in musical theatre, though I am trained. I was drawn to this production because it is so unique, and different. It is really isn’t like a conventional musical - it is different to what people may expect. It’s a piece of storytelling with music almost playing a whole character in the piece.

Are you enjoying the singing?

It’s a really challenging role with lots of singing - so I am having to work hard, but the songs are so well written they are a gift to perform and our musical director Ben Holder is just wonderful and has given me so much support.

Has doing this production broadened your skills in any way?

Absolutely! Every day I have learned something new. The cast are so talented and from all different backgrounds so I am learning from them all the time. I have learned about classical Indian singing, qawwali music and even developed some dance moves.

How much choreography is involved?

Movement plays a big part in the storytelling style of the piece and the choreographer Cressida Carré has created some gorgeous sequences. The movement really helps me find the emotional connection with Laila’s journey.

Do you think there are enough lead roles for women in the industry?

Well, I am very lucky to be playing such a strong female lead as those opportunity don’t come along very often. The writer/director has really transformed the original tale to show the story from a feminist perspective in a misogynistic world.

Have you always wanted to be an actor? If so, growing up did you used to take part in school and/or youth theatre productions?

I had a really inspiring teacher who coached me to get into drama school. She encouraged me to take part in school shows, which I loved, but I never dreamed I could make a career out of it, I actually wanted to be in the police.

Can you tell me about yourself, what do you like doing in your spare time?

I love to swim and do bikram yoga to relax, being an actress can be quite hectic.”

Previews April 2 to 6, performances April 7 to 17 at Watford Palace Theatre, Clarendon Road, Watford. Details: 01923 225671.