Interview: Mo Korede talks “Our Father”

July 2023

Mo Korede’s “Our Father” looks at fathers and fatherhood through the lens of absence and presence. The show is set to play Theatro Technis from 4th – 5th August as part of this year’s Camden Fringeand here, Mo talks driving forces, intent and great advice…

So, tell me a little about your upcoming show, Our Father.

Our Father is what I like to call my love letter to all fathers and father figures. Narratively it’s about absent/present fathers and the conceptualisation, rationalisaton and acceptance of that relationship, through faith and understanding.

What’s the most important thing you want people to know about this Our Father and its intentions?

I want people to know this is a black show but not a solely black topic. The show is for everyone and it’s open for everyone.

And what would you say ultimately drives your central character?

There are 3 central characters all as important as each other. What drives them all is faith in God and the struggle to have faith in their supposed reality of their father.

No spoilers, obviously, but can you give us a taste of the show – a highlight you find yourself drawn to?

Imagine a black church sermon. Like that but with more patience.

Who are you hoping will see Our Father and what are you hoping they’ll take away with them?

Fathers, father-figures, their children. So everyone but essentially I want people who are on various journeys with their fathers to come. 

Quickfire round now then. Best show you’ve seen this year?

For Black Boys.

A performance or backstage highlight, “the show must go on”-style?

One time I had a cast member come in drunk so I had to fill the role. 

Your route into the arts?

I did my under grad in screenwriting for tv, radio and film. Then did my first masters in Advanced Theatre practice at Central. And now I’m doing my MFA in theatre directing at Birkbeck.

Best advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to theatre-making?

Be true to yourself and what art you want to make. There’s only one you, don’t be anyone else.

Your own tastes and influences when it comes to theatre/ live work?

Black led theatre. Psycological realism.

Finally, why should audiences come along to see Our Father this August?

Fathers deserve love too.

So there you have it! You can catch Mo Korede’s “Our Father” at Theatro Technis from 4th – 5th August (7pm) 2023. More information and tickets can be found here.