Elizabeth McGovern Takes on Ava Gardner in Toronto Theatre

Elizabeth McGovern, renowned for her portrayal of Cora Crawley in the acclaimed series “Downton Abbey,” is set to take the stage in Toronto as she plays iconic actress Ava Gardner in her own play, “Ava: The Secret Conversations.” The production premieres on **November 6, 2023**, at the CAA Theatre, following successful performances in New York and upcoming shows in Chicago.

In a recent video call from New York, McGovern expressed her excitement about stepping into the role of Gardner, stating, “It is like taking off a corset and just throwing it into the trash.” She elaborated on her long career, noting that while she has enjoyed bringing various characters to life, portraying Gardner represents a significant shift in her artistic journey. “This is a woman’s story where she goes back and revisits her past,” McGovern explained, highlighting the personal and reflective nature of the narrative.

Ava Gardner, a prominent figure during Hollywood’s golden age, was known for her beauty, tumultuous love life, and significant film roles. The play focuses on Gardner’s later years, particularly a series of candid conversations she had with journalist Peter Evans, who ghostwrote her autobiography. These discussions delve into her relationships, personal struggles, and her reflections on life, which provide a rich backdrop for McGovern’s portrayal.

The character of Gardner in “Ava: The Secret Conversations” is depicted near the end of her life, following a stroke in **1986** that curtailed her acting career. Gardner had a storied past, marked by high-profile marriages and affairs with notable figures, including Frank Sinatra and Mickey Rooney. McGovern is keen to explore these complexities, noting that Gardner’s life was shaped by societal expectations and her own desires.

“I thought that was a really intriguing idea and much more alive than somebody telling anecdotes,” McGovern said of the narrative’s focus on the dynamic between Gardner and Evans. She draws parallels between her own life and Gardner’s, noting their shared experience of being shaped by their families and the entertainment industry.

While McGovern initially knew little about Gardner, her research has deepened her appreciation for the actress. “The more I’ve gotten to know her character, the more I’ve fallen for her,” she remarked. The play portrays Gardner as a woman grappling with her identity in a male-dominated industry, a theme that resonates with McGovern’s own experiences in Hollywood.

Reflecting on the changes in the industry, McGovern noted, “It’s hard to imagine a world in movies where women being sexually attractive isn’t the predominant requirement.” She emphasized how the dialogue around women’s roles has evolved, yet acknowledged that challenges still remain.

McGovern’s journey to writing “Ava” was born out of necessity when the original writers failed to deliver, prompting her to take on the project herself. “I thought, ‘Well, if I had the idea, I might as well just try to do it myself,’” she explained. Since the play’s debut in **2022** in London, she has gained confidence in her writing and is eager to pursue more screenwriting opportunities.

Despite her growing involvement in writing, McGovern remains dedicated to acting, stating, “I feel very lucky because I still get so much joy from it.” She recently reprised her role as Cora Crawley in “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale,” directed by her husband, Simon Curtis.

As she prepares to embody the vibrant and complex Ava Gardner, McGovern is enthusiastic about the departure from her previous role. “I’m definitely ready to shed that part and move on,” she stated. The stark contrast between the characters—Cora’s prim demeanor and Ava’s bold personality—offers a fresh challenge for the actress.

“Ava: The Secret Conversations” will run from **November 6 to 30** at the CAA Theatre, located at **651 Yonge St.** Tickets and additional information can be found at Mirvish Productions’ website. McGovern’s portrayal promises a captivating exploration of one of Hollywood’s most enigmatic figures, showcasing both the triumphs and tribulations of a woman who lived life on her own terms.