The intriguingly titled Love Sex Fleas God is currently on stage at The Masque Theatre in Muizenberg. It’s based on the autobiography of Bruce Clark and his experiences as a “House Dad”. Tracey Saunders asked David Muller about it.
Love, Sex, Fleas and God – it does sound a bit like a valentine’s date at a grooming parlour. What drew you to the title?
Love – for his children; Sex – with his wife; Fleas – the two dogs, Harry And Hedwig; God – although his mother was a “devout” Scientologist she believed in God.
The play was staged last year at the Rosebank Theatre, has it been developed since then?
Yes, in that (director) Celia Musikanth and I have cut, polished pasted and shortened it to just under 75 minutes. We have also got me to be more Bruce, quiet, reserved as many of his friends have said, they never thought Bruce could utter two words, until they read the book he wrote, the book of the same title
Has the author, Bruce Clark seen the play and if so what was his response?
Bruce shared the following sentiments about his thoughts on the play once he had handed it over to Celia and I:
“The book is a gift to my children. I would like them to understand me when I’m too decrepit to explain myself. And, to be sure, writing it was a cathartic process; but the ‘after that’ was vague in my mind. It still is. I never imagined that the book would take a detour via the stage. The ‘exposure’ inherent in the book, and now the show, unnerves me a bit.”
As a father yourself did you find easy to relate to the character?
Yes.
There is a fine balance between comedy and tragedy in this peace, how do you navigate that?
Phew, with the utmost care always listening to my audiences; last night drew more laughs than ever before and also saw me holding back the tears, real tears…tears for the sorry state thought-provoking theatre is in and tears as Bruce especially at the end. But I ‘m not going to give that away…
You are well known for your Herman Charles Bosman plays. Has this departure been a challenge and is there anything from his stories that relates to this play?
Indeed, it has been a tremendous challenge for I have had to relook at my attitude towards the way I treat people so that I could apply Bruce’s gentleness, compassion, quietness, stillness on stage; your questions are awesome.
Sandwich or Salad?
Salad betwixt the slices….
Where and When: Masque Theatre, Muizenberg until 18 February
Book : Masque Theatre
WS
