Making her debut on the Talisman stage, Jo takes on the iconic role of Blanche DuBois in A Streetcar Named Desire. While new to the Talisman, audiences may already recognise Jo from productions at other local theatres and even the occasional Fringe performance at the Holiday Inn. In this Tali Talk Q&A, Jo reflects on the challenge of tackling one of theatre’s most complex female roles, the emotional discoveries made throughout rehearsals, and the intensity of bringing Tennessee Williams’ timeless classic to life in the intimate setting of the Talisman Theatre.
- What drew you to your character in A Streetcar Named Desire?
Blanche is an iconic role, although to be honest, I hadn’t appreciated quite how enormous it was. From my memory of the classic film, I had thought Stanley was the bigger role because of the fame of Marlon Brando. So I was quite surprised when I started to really dig into the script. Blanche is so complex — an absolute gift for an actress. There are so many facets to her: the qualities most people associate with her — vulnerability, madness and passion — but also her truth and backstory, which I’ve loved exploring. She’s an intelligent woman, disillusioned by love, who I think has never truly felt cherished or loved. Struggling to keep her family’s legacy alive, she has done whatever was necessary to survive. So yes, there is vulnerability, but there is also a great deal of strength and resilience.
- What has surprised you most about the play or your character during rehearsals?
I have been on a great journey with this character. Chris had a strong vision, and there has been a lot of debate and challenge in rehearsals, which has really allowed us to explore the text and the motivations of all the characters in depth. It hasn’t always been easy to find what felt right, but that process has been incredibly rewarding.
I’ve loved how the dynamics have grown with each of my fellow principals. There is far more humour in the play than I had first realised, and a real honesty in the relationship Blanche has with Mitch. Between the sisters, there is a sense of mutual protection and genuine love. What surprised me most with Stanley is how deeply Blanche is able to hurt him with her words and derision — and therefore how much power she actually holds over him, even if only for a moment.
- How would you describe this production in three words?
Complex. Instinctive. Magical.
- Why do you think audiences still connect so strongly with Tennessee Williams’ play today?
Essentially, this play is about human behaviour. Although the decades may have changed, we as humans haven’t changed all that much. Sexual attraction, desire and the need to feel loved can drive people to do deeply illogical things. Williams shines a spotlight on some extreme characters, but within all of them there is something audiences can relate to. And the language he uses to express those needs is simply beautiful.
- Why should audiences come and see A Streetcar Named Desire at the Talisman?
You could watch a film or television series with the same levels of lust, violence, tension and humour, but you simply can’t experience it in the same way you can in the theatre. The intensity of this production, performed in an intimate space like the Talisman, means that Streetcar becomes as much an experience for the audience as it is for us on stage. I would love to share it.
Book your tickets for A Streetcar Named Desire at the Talisman Theatre. Opens Monday, 18th May 2026.