ByGANDHINAGAR : Irish talent Ultan Pringle spills the beans on the making of “Pistachio,” his latest audio drama for LemonSoap Productions, co-starring the legendary Piper Laurie.
“Pistachio” centers around a series of phone calls between an estranged American grandmother (played by Laurie) and her Irish grandson (played by Pringle). Pringle delves into the genesis of the project, recounting his initial nerve-wracking encounter with the Hollywood icon.
“Working with a legend like Piper Laurie? Terrifying,” Pringle admits in an article in RTE.ie (RTÉ.ie is the website of Raidió Teilifís Éireann, Ireland’s National Public Service Media) . “Especially on Zoom, during lockdown!” He goes on to describe her illustrious career, highlighting her unforgettable performances in “Carrie” and “Twin Peaks.” Pringle, a self-proclaimed “gay kid,” even confesses his childhood fear of Laurie’s role in the cult classic “Return to Oz.”
The collaboration began with a bold move by Pringle. He approached Laurie with a script about pandemics, family estrangement, and grief, fully prepared for rejection. To his surprise, Laurie provided feedback and requested revisions. After some tweaks, the project secured a recording date, leaving Pringle both excited and immensely nervous.
“Everything I’d ever hoped for,” Pringle describes Laurie’s presence. Laurie’s voice is, deep and captivating in the series, a true mark of the golden age of Hollywood.
Despite his initial awe, Pringle found Laurie to be an exceptional collaborator. He commends her effortless performance, imbued with genuine emotion and the undeniable presence of a Hollywood legend. However, Pringle’s self-doubt initially led him to shelve the project.
Laurie’s passing in October 2023 served as a catalyst. Their final conversation, where Laurie extended an invitation to visit her in Los Angeles, fueled Pringle’s determination. He conquered his fear and decided to share “Pistachio” with the world.
The play is about grief, about a grandson and grandmother forging a connection, Pringle explains. Piper is simply magnificent in it. Her voice, a blend of age and Hollywood, carries immense power.” He acknowledges his own performance pales in comparison but expresses his hope that listeners will appreciate the larger message.
“Pistachio” offers a glimpse into the brilliance of Piper Laurie, a true icon,” Pringle concludes. 🎉🙌🥂
