Edward Carey reveals his obsession with theatre in new gothic novel

Edward Carey, a novelist, has been influenced by his background in theatre and his life experiences in Norwich, England. His latest novel features a 12-year-old girl named Edith, who experiences life within a fictional theatre called the Holler theatre while believing that leaving its confines would bring disaster. This creativity was rekindled during the lockdown when he found himself reflecting on his childhood memories. He immersed himself in the city's folklore and the unique architectural feature of vaulted rooms known as undercrofts, which assist in shaping the narrative of his novel. A significant aspect of his inspiration stems from his fascination with the uncanny nature of the past and its lingering effects on the present. Carey recalls his young memories of watching his first pantomime at Norwich Theatre Royal, which is glorified as the Holler theatre in his story. He later worked at London's Comedy Theatre and had encounters with playwright Harold Pinter, which further enriched his understanding of theatrical storytelling. These experiences highlight the path from being a stage door keeper to a published author. In addition to themes originating from theatre, Carey feels a connection to the world of puppets and dolls, a passion that is evident in his creative process. He has even crafted a doll of Madame Tussaud, reflecting his playful engagement with art through tactile means. This doll serves as a symbol of the intersection between theatre, history, and storytelling for Carey. His characters often embody solitary aspects of existence, dealing with feelings of isolation and the presence of artificial entities represented through puppets. Ultimately, Carey's journey through various elements of theatre, coupled with his rich upbringing in Norwich, has culminated in a gothic novel that explores the boundaries between reality and the fantastical, inviting readers to reflect on their own perceptions of history and storytelling.