Brief Encounter with… Harry Potter star Bonnie Wright

What drew you to the play?
Firstly that it was written by Peter Ustinov, who has always been a fascinating figure within the arts for me – he was a master of so many forms. Although written in 1950’s, the themes are very relevant for an audience today.

Did you enjoy rehearsals?
My first few days I felt like I was speaking a foreign language, whilst trying to stay afloat in the middle of the ocean. But I am loving every moment of the challenge, every day I feel like I am evolving in some way. The rest of the cast have been fascinating to work with.

What do you make of the new Southwark Playhouse?
I think it’s a great theatre that is always showcasing new talent. The space is also incredibly versatile and unique.

Do you identify with your character at all?
Not at all and that’s why I love playing her.

What made you want to make your stage debut?
It has always been an art form that I have wanted to explore, and I feel that now was the right time professionally and personally to do it.

What did you learn from your Harry Potter experiences?
Everything. It was the foundation for my career.

Were you something of a celebrity at school?
Not really. I was very lucky that my peers and teachers treated me just the same.

What made you want to become an actress in the first place?
I think what really motivated me to get into acting at first was my desire as a child to have a stab at anything wholeheartedly, without any fears.

Would you like to do more stage acting after The Moment of Truth?
Yes.

What’s next?
After I finish the play I am going to have a short break in Italy. I then get back to London for the release of The Sea – a film I shot at the end of last year. I then have a few projects in the pipeline.

The Moment of Truth runs at the Southwark Playhouse until 20 July