Many actors say they prefer playing the villain or the vanquished as it presents more challenges. Quera South agrees, telling the Jamaica Observer’s Splash that she revels in the character Joy she plays in Room 513, Patrick Brown’s comedy currently playing at Courtleigh Auditorium.

The production, which opened in July, is based on Joy and her husband Lance (played by veterean Glen Campbell) who has a roving eye.

“I enjoy any role that challenges me. I love a good dramatic role that explores real and relatable situations,” said South. “I empathise with anyone who has ever been in that sort of situation. Betrayal is not easy and is certainly not for the faint of heart, but it is also not based on gender. It can affect anyone deeply whether they are male or female.”

She continued: “There were so many nuances in Joy’s emotional state that were quite interesting to explore. I think everyone has had moments in their lives that challenge their trust and relationships.”

Room 513 also stars Sheree McDonald Russell as Lily and Courtney Wilson as Tom.

Scheduled to close on October 21, it has been enthusiastically received by multiple audiences, which does not surprise South, given the production’s sensitive topic.

A protege of playwright Trevor Nairne, South was a member of his Centrestage Workshop. That company prepared several aspiring actors for a career in theatre.

South made her debut in Straight Jacket, Brown’s 2017 comedy, and has been a regular in his subsequent plays including Windscream Posse, Anancy and Pinnochio, Lockdown, and Pigview Heights.

— Howard Campbell