Charlie Russell on preparing for The Comedy About Spies

With The Comedy About Spies set to open in the West End this month, here we talk to cast member Charlie Russell.

Created by The Play That Goes Wrong producers Mischief Theatre, The Comedy About Spies is a riotous stage comedy where "laughter is the only weapon". When a rogue British agent pilfers plans for a top-secret weapon, CIA and KGB spies converge on London's Piccadilly Hotel in pursuit of the elusive file. Add to the mix a clueless young couple, a hapless actor angling for the role of James Bond, and enough double agents to confuse even the sharpest operative, and you've got a mission that's hilariously out of control.

A creative associate and one of the co-founders, Charlie has appeared extensively in Mischief stage productions, including taking on lead roles in The Play That Goes Wrong, Peter Pan Goes Wrong, The Comedy About a Bank Robbery and Groan Ups. She was also a regular in The Goes Wrong Show, the group's much-loved BBC One series.

Now she is taking on the role of Elena Popov in The Comedy About Spies. Let's find out more:

How did you become involved with Mischief?

I joined shortly after the company started, developing and performing in our improv show, now known as Mischief Movie Night. I hadn't started drama school yet and knew I should probably just focus on that, but I couldn't resist hanging out with the funniest most exciting group of people I'd ever met.

What has been your biggest highlight so far in the Mischief journey?

We're so lucky to have a plethora of highlights to choose from. I am especially proud of performing my solo show, Charlie Russell Aims To Please at the Edinburgh Fringe and The Other Palace.

It was developed with Mischief and Katie-Ann McDonough, directed by her and supported by so many great creative souls. I learnt that a solo show doesn't have to be a lonely experience.

So you're now set to appear in The Comedy About Spies. The title gives us some clue, but what is it about?

Spies.

Haha. Tell us more about your character...

Elena is a spy for the USSR. Focused, fierce and driven. She prefers to work alone.

How many James Bond films do you think you've seen in your life?

Quite a few! Daniel Craig is my favourite in Casino Royale, but Judi Dench in Skyfall is my queen.

Do you think, in real life, you'd be a good recruit for the security services?

Yes and no. I'd be a great spy until I break my cover when I see a cat.

What about if you were an evil villain. What would your plan for world domination be?

Charm offensive. Charm the entire world into doing my bidding. My bidding: everyone be more charming.

Nice. If you had to describe The Comedy About Spies in three words, what words would you use?

Farce on steroids.

The Comedy About Spies is at The Noel Coward Theatre from 14th April to 5th September. spiescomedy.com