Vernon
Think we can all agree, there’s some dark humour to be had around death. Which means surely that a play about a funeral director has plenty of scope. And that’s just what writer and performer Gary Bates believes, as his show, Vernon, is just that. The show’s full length premiere will be part of this year’s SE Fest, playing at Jack Studio on Friday 5 September (at 7.30pm) and then Bridge House Theatre on Saturday 6 September (two shows at 3pm and 7.30).
We caught up with Gary, along with his director Tash Marks, to find out more about this show that will offer us a glimpse behind the curtain of the funeral directors office.
What can audiences expect from the show?
This one-man play centres on Vernon – a funeral director. Expect some dark humour as he reflects on his job and how that has informed his attitude to death.
As Vernon begins to face his demons – and how his past choices, mistakes and missed opportunities have impacted his life, his ambitions, and his relationships with those he loves – the piece moves into deeper themes of love, loss, regret, the challenges of parenting, and the mental pressures on young people.
Is this going to be the show’s first time on stage, or have you already performed elsewhere?
It’s the first time on stage for this longer version of the play.
What was your inspiration behind the show?
Gary: This started life as a ‘Rapid Write Response’ 10-minute play at Theatre 503 in 2023 – written in response to a play centred around death and bereavement.
For a while I’d been fascinated by people who work in the funeral business. I did some research in funeral homes a few years ago for a corporate training job I was doing, and met some amazing people. So I wanted to explore that – why they do it, how they got into etc, it’s a niche career choice to say the least! And also how it might impact someone’s attitude to life, death and relationships. I’m also a parent, and as I wrote that became a key part of the narrative too – especially the impact of the pandemic and the mental pressures on young people.
How long have you been working on the play?
After it was staged at Theatre 503 in 2023, I performed it again at a monologue night at The Old Red Lion in 2024. It got a good response both times, and I’ve since developed it into this longer piece.
Is this version how you originally envisioned it or has it changed drastically since you first put pen to paper?
It hasn’t changed drastically – the characters and the story arc are pretty much the same. But I have developed the back story and the detail of Vernon’s life, and added depth with more characters that come to life with his retelling.
What was it that drew you to this show?
Tash: I am drawn to the stories and writing which explore life’s complexities and struggle mixed with the lightness of humour which this play does. I am forever curious by the psychology of humans and what leads/draws us to behave in certain ways so it’s been interesting to delve into one character’s inner workings and world, alongside Gary who imagined him up.
How challenging has this role been for you?
Gary: I’m performing it myself. The most challenging thing is simply learning it – as it’s a 25 page monologue. I thought as I’d written it then I would pretty much know it, but I was wrong about that!! Also, with a monologue – finding variation is important, and finding creative ways to bring the story and the other characters to life.
What brought you all together?
We met at a ‘speed networking’ event at Theatre 503 in 2024, and quickly realised that we had similar interests, and also lived quite near to one another (in Beckenham). So when I was looking for a director for the show Tash was the natural choice. It’s our first time collaborating (but hopefully not the last!)
Being a fringe festival, we all know sets have to be bare minimum, how have you got around this with your set and props?
No set! Minimal props. Keeping it simple!
Are there any plans for what comes next after the show has finished its run– for you or the show?
Not sure yet – we want to see how it’s received. I may develop the play further, moving it beyond a one person piece. Tash would love to continue being a part of how it develops, especially after seeing how it is received by an audience.
Who would play you in the Hollywood adaptation of your future autobiography?
Gary: Steve Buscemi
Tash: For my later years… Meryll Streep
What’s the most valuable piece of advice you’ve received during your career, and how has it influenced your work on this show?
As a writer – just write! Try not to censor yourself, and expect your first draft to be a bit rubbish. But also that there will be the essence of something in there, and some gems that you will keep.
Thanks to Gary and Tash for finding time to chat. Vernon plays as part of SE Fest 2025 on Friday 5 (Jack Studio) and Saturday 6 September (Bridge House Theatre).
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