Holly Godliman: Confidence, Curiosity, and Chloë Coverly

In this episode, we sat down with the luminous Holly Godliman as she prepares to take the stage at the Old Vic in Tom Stoppard’s masterpiece, Arcadia. As the production approaches its February 4th opening, Holly delves into the "brilliant machinery" of Stoppard’s writing and her role as the spirited Chloë Coverly—the modern-day character who famously suggests that sex is the one force capable of upsetting Newton’s deterministic universe. From the technical rigors of mastering chaos theory dialogue to the unique energy of performing "in the round" under Carrie Cracknell’s direction, Holly offers a rare, intellectual glimpse into the rehearsal room of what is widely considered the greatest play of the late 20th century.

Beyond the gardens of Sidley Park, the conversation explores Holly’s meteoric rise following her "startlingly assured" professional debut in Doubt: A Parable. Carlos and Holly revisit the high-stakes atmosphere of that production in Bath, reflecting on the lessons she carried from acting alongside Maxine Peake into her current collaboration with friends like Isis Hainsworth. It is a warm, deeply personal exploration of an actress finding her footing on the world's most historic stages, balancing the disciplined curiosity of a researcher with the raw confidence of a natural-born performer.