Norm Foster is considered to be Canada’s most produced playwright. He has had more than 40 plays produced on professional stages all over North America and as far away as Canberra, Australia. This spring, the Playhouse is producing Foster’s play, The Love List which Foster is also starring in. The acclaimed playwright sat down with us between rehearsals this week to talk about his work on this incredibly funny play.

Is it any different to perform a show you’ve written as opposed to one you haven’t written?
I think it is because when I perform in a show that I haven’t written, I’m not thinking so much about the audience reaction as I am when I’m in a show that I’ve written. I’ve acted in a few shows that I haven’t written and I find it far more relaxing to do somebody else’s show.

How are you and Director Max Reimer working together in rehearsals?
I like to just go in there as an actor and not be a playwright while I’m in rehearsals. Max and I work pretty well together. Max does his homework of course and knows the play inside out so he doesn’t usually have to ask any questions of me. It’s just strictly director to actor when we’re working together.

This show is about two men who draw up a list of the qualities their perfect mate would have. What do you think is the most important quality in a relationship?
I think one of the things on the list is trust and I think that’s very important. That would probably be in the top three for me.

Have you ever made your own list?
No I haven’t. Although I will admit that most of the things on the list in the play would be on my list.

What can audiences expect from The Love List?
Well I’ve just met Peter (Anderson) and Cailin (Stadnyk). [Foster's co-stars in The Love List] I think they really have a comedic sense about them and that’s really important when doing one of my plays. It’s going to be a lot of fun for the audience. Plus there’s a little bit to think about there too - about the quest for perfection.
The Love List is playing at the Vancouver Playhouse from March 6-10 and March 25-April 10 (there is a hiatus during the Paralympic Games). For tickets click here or call the box office at 604 873 3311