Please Go Away, Sir David Attenborough

Written and directed by Nicholas Merchant, “Please Go Away, Sir David Attenborough” tells the story of a girl, Bree, on a date that is being narrated by broadcaster and historian David Attenborough.

When sophomore Elena Stern, who plays Bree, was preparing for her role, she focused on finding connections to reality in order to connect with her character.

“What really helped me click with being Bree was by really small details that made it feel more real. Like feeling anxious at the beginning of the date and telling Shelly how much your sorry with no anger or stress, just with care,” she said. “Originally we weren’t going to have Nikhil on stage and just a voice, but being able to see him made it more real and more comedic.

In addition to those connections with reality, Elena’s connection to her castmates supported her acting.

“I think that one of my favorite parts is working with Nikhil and Juliet. They are so truly talented and thoughtful and a total blast to work with,” she said. “I really loved the moments when Nikhil made the audience laugh and their reaction to his costume. That always kills me. I also love watching Juliet do her monologue with that pain in her eyes, and that makes it so much easier for me to feel sad as I slump back to my seat.”