Nancy Brilli on Confronting Darkness and Finding Freedom on Stage in “The Master”
Nancy Brilli, a veteran Italian actress, discusses her return to the stage in “The Master,” currently showing at the Quirino Theater in Rome until March 22nd. Brilli portrays Immacolata, a complex character in a post-war Italy setting, prompting audiences to contemplate themes of conscience, responsibility, and the pursuit of material wealth.
Exploring the Role and the Human Condition
During an appearance on Radio2 Stai Serena, hosted by Serena Bortone and Max Cervelli, Brilli delved into the challenges and rewards of embodying a character so different from herself. She explained that preparing for the role involved reflecting on individuals she had encountered in her life who embodied negative traits. “Arriving at these uncertainties, at these atrocities is hard,” Brilli stated, adding, “To prepare I went to look for all the bad people I met in life: many fewer than the good ones, but they exit more of their mark.”
Brilli found a liberating aspect in playing a villainous role, allowing her to explore the darker facets of human nature. “It’s liberating to interpret evil. When an actor can do something so different from himself, he hunts in the world, finds grips, ideas, movements,” she explained. She emphasized the distance between herself and Immacolata, describing the character as almost authoritarian in her demeanor.
Controversy and the Power of Performance
The production faced some controversy regarding its original title. Brilli revealed that the play was initially titled “The Jew,” but some theaters expressed reluctance to stage it. She recounted instances of intimidation, including arson near one theater. “There was even intimidation: they set fire to the bins behind a theatre. We don’t know if there is anti-Semitism behind it or just fear of creating problems.”
Brilli also openly discussed her perspective on money, acknowledging its importance in her life, and career. “Money has been important in my life,” she admitted. “I started this profession not out of sacred fire but because they paid me: I wanted to leave home.” She asserted that financial security contributes to well-being and the ability to support others.
Finding Serenity and the Importance of Freedom
Reflecting on the current social climate, Brilli expressed concern about the prevalence of negativity and hatred. “We have develop into large haters. But why?” she questioned, advocating for peace and letting go of animosity. She finds solace in her operate and in her personal relationships, emphasizing the importance of chosen family.
For Brilli, freedom is a hard-won achievement. “Freedom is an achievement paid for at a high price,” she said. “When I wasn’t free I paid with joy.” She also shared a story about a spontaneous trip to Morocco, highlighting her adventurous spirit and the value of embracing unexpected experiences.
Brilli finds fulfillment in the transformative power of theater. “The fact that the audience accepts that in that moment I’m not Nancy but Immacolata is a superpower,” she concluded. “I’ve been doing this job for forty-two years: perhaps over time I’ve learned something.”