Lottie Brown on taking on role of free-spirit Phaedra in Harrogate Dramatic Society's production of Jerusalem

She is now taking on one of her most exciting challenges yet — the role of Phaedra in Harrogate Dramatic Society’s forthcoming production of Jerusalem at Harrogate Theatre.

Written by Jez Butterworth, Jerusalem is a raucous, provocative and darkly funny journey into modern rural England, centred around Johnny ‘Rooster’ Byron and the extraordinary collection of characters who inhabit his world.

Lottie is thrilled to be making her Society debut in a principal role, having previously appeared with the company as part of the ensemble in Goodnight Mr Tom. She has also performed with Knaresborough Players in Camelot.

“I was thrilled when I found out I’d been cast as Phaedra,” says Lottie. “She is such a striking character in the play, and the chance to step into a role that has a mixture of vulnerability, mystery and defiance felt like a huge opportunity.

“I love her mix of boldness and vulnerability. She is imaginative, expressive and rebellious and I relate to the way she is navigating the world, growing up and realising she needs to come out of her shell.

"She feels things deeply, and that is something I understand.”

Although Phaedra is young, Lottie is keen to avoid portraying her as childish.

“She’s spirited, curious and braver than people realise. There’s a youthful innocence to her but also a sharp awareness. I believe she sees more than people give her credit for.

"She’s the kind of person who follows her heart even when it’s messy.”

One of the most enjoyable aspects of the role has been discovering the different layers to Phaedra, including her experience of being crowned May Queen and her musical moments within the production.

“Exploring her personality and how events in her life shape her has been incredible. She’s written with so much depth, and finding the balance between her confidence and her fragility has been an amazing experience. Her musical moments have also been a joy to work on.”

Capturing Phaedra’s youth while giving her the emotional depth she requires has been one of Lottie’s biggest challenges.

“She’s young but she’s not naïve, and getting that right has been tricky. She also carries emotional weight in the story, so portraying that truthfully has been a challenge I have really embraced.”

Working alongside Gary Bowman, who plays the larger-than-life Rooster Byron, has also been an important part of Lottie’s experience.

“Gary brings huge energy into the rehearsal room. Rooster is such a larger-than-life character and Gary matches that with humour and total commitment. He gives me advice in the rehearsal room, helping me conquer this very intricate play. He makes bold choices, which pushes everyone else to be braver too.”

Jerusalem is a big, ambitious production and is being directed by Dermot Hill. The atmosphere behind the scenes has been equally memorable.

“The cast is brilliant — supportive, silly and full of personality. There have been plenty of moments where someone breaks into laughter mid-scene or forgets a line or when you have three versions of a scene but don’t know which one you’re supposed to be doing.

" It’s a big play, but the atmosphere behind the scenes is fun, warm and welcoming.”

For Lottie, working on such a substantial production alongside more experienced performers has been a valuable learning experience.

“I’ve learned how much detail goes into building a world on stage and that every gesture and pause matters. Working with experienced actors has taught me to trust my instincts more and stay open to advice. It’s been an amazing opportunity so far.”

What makes Jerusalem stand out?

“It’s fearless. It doesn’t shy away from big themes or messy characters, yet it’s incredibly funny and human. The play feels alive — unpredictable, wild and deeply emotional.

“Jerusalem is a play you experience, not just watch.

“I think audiences will love the energy of it. One minute you’re laughing, the next you’re holding your breath. The music, the chaos, the emotions all pull you in. People will leave feeling like they’ve been part of something raw and unforgettable.”

Although Lottie has performed on the Harrogate Theatre main stage before, returning to it is something she is excited about.

“Harrogate Theatre has such a rich history, and performing on that stage feels amazing. Although it’s not my first time on the Harrogate Theatre main stage, I am always extremely excited for the opportunity.

"I’m excited to feel the audience’s reactions in real time – especially in a play as electric as this one.”

For Lottie, Jerusalem represents an opportunity to take on a challenging principal role, work alongside a large and experienced cast, and continue developing her passion for theatre.

“I’d say that Jerusalem is one of those plays that stays with you. It’s bold, funny and full of characters you won’t forget but it also has real depth.

"If you want a night at the theatre that actually makes you feel something – and gives you plenty to talk about afterwards – this is the one to come to.”

Harrogate Dramatic Society presents Jerusalem at Harrogate Theatre from Thursday October 17 until Saturay October 17, daily at 7.30pm plus a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

Tickets are on sale now from 01423 502116 and on https://www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk