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Showing posts sorted by date for query interview. Sort by relevance Show all posts

Tuesday 4 April 2023

Vikki Stone on her Olivier Award Win | Hey Duggee Live | Interview



Vikki Stone is a British composer, comedian, actress and musician who has had huge success in tv, radio and theatre. She recently won an Oliver Award for her adaptation of the popular children's TV show, Hey Duggee. Vicki sat down to talk to us about her process when taking something from screen to stage, and how important it is for young people to experience theatre...

Firstly, congratulations on being an Olivier Winner 2023! Where were you when you found out you were nominated?
I was at the gym. (I didn’t share my excitement with anyone around me, as I’m not sure they’d have fully understood what I was excited about.)

You won for Hey Duggee which is a show that entices young audiences/families to the theatre, perhaps for the first time. What was the process like for creating a show, made to entertain and engage children?
Hey Duggee is a well loved kids TV programme, and there are 300+ episodes, so the very first thing myself and co-adaptor Matthew Xia did was sit down in a room with a massive whiteboard and write down all the things that audiences would expect to be in the show. We also wanted to surprise audiences, and deliver an experience that lifts the 2D cartoon into a 3D theatre world. We were also aware that this show would be many people’s first time in the theatre, so we wanted to make it magical and memorable too. We kept that list of audience expectations in our minds throughout the whole process and I think it paid off.

Why do you think it’s so important to involve people of all ages in theatre?
Family co-viewing, which is where Hey Duggee Live sits, is such an important genre of theatre. Those shows where 3 year olds can sit* down with parents, and grandparents and everyone has a good time.

*In Hey Duggee Live there’s no pressure that the under fives have to sit. There’s probably more bouncing around with joy, than sitting.

Within theatre you’ve had a pretty diverse career, what draws you to a project?
When I first started writing theatre it was whoever would pay me! There’s an advantage in the arts for those that can write without the pressure of needing to earn a living, and they can afford to be more choosy, I was not one of those people. I don’t think we talk about that enough in the arts. I wrote anything and everything. These days I do have passion projects that I’m working on that don’t have any finance attached, and you have to believe in those much more, and hope that at some point in the process someone will come along and help get it off the ground.

If you could create your next dream job, what would it include?
I’ve got something “in development” that is pretty much my dream job. I’d really like to work on an on-screen musical theatre show next! Watch this space.

What advice would you give to other female writers who want to break into the industry and forge out a path like yourself?
My advice would be to keep pushing and pivot if necessary. My whole career has been formed out of pivoting, and all the skills I gathered along the way - classical music, stand-up, composing - all form part of who I am as a writer now.

Thank you so much, congratulations on the award!

Friday 10 March 2023

Jay Bryce on Taking Heathers on the Road | Heathers the Musical | Interview


Heathers is currently making its way around the country, on a high octane, 80s fuelled tour. Currently playing Veronica's Dad/Principal Gowan/Kurt's Dad, Jay Bryce tells us about his experience taking the show on the road and what it's like being part of a show with such a cult following...

How does it feel to be starring in such an iconic and well-loved show?
It feels such a privilege to be part of this great show and part of the Heathers Family. I’m so grateful to be working on this production. I didn’t realise the reach the show had until I joined and how much the show means to people. It is so heart-warming to be bringing this show to people around the UK and Ireland.

Which Heather would you most like to be friends with?
Definitely Heather Mac. I think she needs a good friend to look out for her and I think I could help bring out her kinder side. Plus, I’d want to get a yellow blazer to match with her.

Heathers has a really dedicated fan base, what are some of your favourite fan experiences from the tour so far?
Meeting the fans at stage door is always such a great experience. The Heathers fans are all so kind and lovely and we’ve been made to feel so welcome in the venues we’ve been to so far.

Something I’ve also LOVED is the scrunchy throw during the bows. It is so lovely and something that makes the show so unique.

What's your favourite line in Heathers?
I’m a big fan of my characters line “That was one hell of a fishing trip”. But I do love it when Veronica tells Heather Chandler to “Lick it up”. Definitely have been saying that in my everyday life now…!

Heather C is a big corn nut fan, what would your show snack of choice be?
I would love a Werther’s Original. Is that showing my age…?!

If you could bring any other film to stage, which would you choose?
I think American Pie on the stage would be absolutely brilliant. I’d love to play Jim. But I think my casting is now heading more towards playing Jim’s Dad…!

Why should people come and see Heathers on tour?
The show is just brilliant. It has energy, is fun, whilst also dealing with serious themes. Working with this cast has been such a joy and their energy and joy on and off stage is infectious.

You’ll want to come again and again to see this show.


Heathers The Musical plays at the New Victoria Theatre, Woking until 11th March 2023 and then continues its tour

photo credit: Pamela Raith

Wednesday 2 November 2022

Jayme-Lee Zanoncelli on Taking Rock and Roll On Tour | Bat Out Of Hell | Interview

It’s wild, it’s fun, it has everything

Bat Out Of Hell is rocking its way across the UK with its larger than life production values and stellar cast. Swing and Assistant Dance Captain Jayme-Lee Zanoncelli tells us about her experience in the show and why you should take a trip to see it!



For anyone that hasn’t seen Bat Out of Hell, can you explain a little bit about the show?


I would describe Bat out of Hell as a gothic love story. Shown musically, by the intricate and theatrical song writing by Jim Steinman as well as visually on stage. It’s unapologetically “out there.” There’s nothing else like it.


What do you think makes the show appeal you both old and new fans of Jim Steinman/Meatloaf? 

I think for the old fans, the show gives them a chance to reminisce and enjoy the music they love so much. Even for the newer fans, Jim & Meatloafs music is exciting and unique. The characters are vibrant, the set is epic of course, fire, lighting and explosions all add to the experience. 


What’s your favourite song to sing and what’s your favourite song that you don’t sing? 


So many to choose from! I love All Revved Up. It’s intense and fast paced; a great opening for this show. I think my favourite song in the show is What Part Of My Body Hurts The Most. It’s song-writing at its finest.


Is there a Meatloaf song that isn’t in the show, that you wish was?

Midnight At The Lost and Found! It’s a great song!


What’s your favourite tour memory so far? Are you keeping track of the places you visit in any way?


There have been so many great memories on this tour! Our Bat Halloween party was really cool! Everyone put so much effort in. 

I have kept a log of the places we have travelled to over the last 14 months. Plymouth and Edinburgh have both been memorable places for me.


In one sentence, why should people come and see the show?

Everyone should see this show. It’s wild, it’s fun, it has everything; you will not leave bored that’s for sure! 


Bat Out of Hell plays at the New Victoria Theatre until November 5th and then continues it's tour


Wednesday 30 March 2022

Alex Gibson-Giorgio Discusses Playing the Villain and Returning to the Stage | Zorro | Interview

You’re in for a night of heartfelt story telling full of passion, love, swashbuckling and sword fighting Alex Gibson-Giorgio is set to play Ramon in Zorro the Musical which is set to open at the Charing Cross Theatre this weekend. Pre-opening he chats to us about the rehearsal process, what it's like playing the villain and what audiences can expect from the musical...


Firstly, could you tell us a little bit about what audiences can expect from Zorro?
We all know and love the mask-wearing, sword-wielding bandit who fights for the poor and defends injustice, breaking many a heart along the way; made eternally famous by Antonio Banderas. Well, the musical has all the passion, love and fire of the film, with a little extra heart, all set to the songs of the Gipsy Kings.

It must be great to get back into theatre post-lockdown, especially with such a high energy show, what has the rehearsal process been like?
Being back in the rehearsal room is a huge privilege … it’s definitely one of my favourite parts of putting on a show. The pure magic of a group of actors in a space creating an imaginary world together … it’s so exciting! It’s a place to make bold offers and explore the full range of your character with no judgement … there are no wrong choices, instead there are endless possibilities. As my acting teacher Margot Fenley would say “Be bold and fail gloriously!”

Ramon is a pretty evil character and you’ve previously played Jafar in Aladdin, are you a fan of the villains?
I do love myself a villain. I think they’re the most interesting characters to play because you get to safely explore often darker ways of thinking and existing that are not always socially acceptable in everyday life. In the case of Jafar, it’s just CAMP!

The score of Zorro is by the Gipsy Kings, if you were to have a band write the score for a musical about your life, who would you choose?
Fleetwood Mac for sure. Or Gaga. Maybe James Taylor … this one’s hard.

What song are you most excited to perform for an audience when the show opens?
I love Baila Me … such a good tune! But watching Djobi Djoba and Bamboleo from offstage is a personal highlight for me. We are lucky to have such a talented company who not only sing and act, they also have to play multiple instruments, dance (WHILST PLAYING), shoot guns and sword fight!

Why should people come and see Zorro?
If you love The Gipsy Kings, you will love this show. The music fills your soul! You’re in for a night of heartfelt story telling full of passion, love, swashbuckling and sword fighting. VIVA EL ZORRO!


Thank you so much Alex for taking the time to chat to us. Zorro opens at the Charing Cross Theatre 2nd April

Interview by Olivia Mitchell, Editor

Tuesday 22 March 2022

Rebecca Lock on Bringing Rock to the Stage | School of Rock | Interview

it has been such a joy to recreate this role and wonderful story
School of Rock is a cult classic film which celebrates music and how it brings people together. Post- pandemic it provides the perfect, lighthearted, high energy, night out. Currently starring in the show as headmistress Rosalie Mullins, Rebecca Lock tells us about her experience in the show and who her own inspirational teacher was...


Firstly, for anyone that doesn’t know could you explain a little bit about School of Rock?
A wanna be failed rockstar pretends to be his flat mate and earn some money by being a substitute teacher in a posh prep school. He forms a band with the class and enters into the battle of the bands whilst charming the headmistress Rosalie Mullins along the way.
 
This is such an iconic story and now show, what’s it been like bringing it to the stage?
It’s one of my favourite films so it has been such a joy to recreate this role and wonderful story.
 
If you could star in any other screen to stage adaptation, which film would you choose?
Oh cripes… there’s far too many to choose from… all the best ones have already been adapted!
 
Aside from the music, this is really a show about an inspirational teacher, have you had any influential teachers in your life?
Oh definitely… Mr Cobly my first drama teacher taught me so much and encouraged my pursuits.
 
You play the headteacher Rosalie Mullins who is an authority figure but also has some really humorous moments. How do you balance the two?
That’s the joy.. she’s one extreme and then she flips and you see a whole new side to her… super fun to play
 
Why do you think people should come and see the show?
It’s a proper family show… something for everyone! From 8- 98… you’ll leave wanting to pick up a guitar and form your own rock band!
 
Thank you so much Rebecca for taking the time to chat to me. School of Rock plays at the New Wimbledon Theatre until 26th March and then continues its tour.

Interview by Olivia Mitchell, Editor

photo credit: Paul Coltas
 

Jake Sharp on Bringing Rock to Wimbledon | School of Rock | Interview

All that was taken away from us during the pandemic is celebrated in the show by some genius young superstars. 

School of Rock is a cult classic film which celebrates music and how it brings people together. Post- pandemic it provides the perfect, lighthearted, high energy, night out. Currently starring in the show as leading man Dewey Finn, Jake Sharp tells us about his experience in the show and what it's like stepping into Jack Black's shoes...




Firstly, for anyone that doesn’t know could you explain a little bit about School of Rock?

School of Rock is about a wannabe rockstar Dewey Finn, who, needing some money, intercepts a phone call and poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious school. When he hears the straight-A students playing classical music he transforms them into mini rockstars in order to compete at the Battle of the Bands.

Jack Black made Dewey such an iconic character, what’s it been like creating your own version?
Obviously Jack Black is a genius so they are quite big shoes to fill. But the blueprints that his performance has given means there is so much room to play. Dewey Finn is basically a big kid so it’s so much fun seeing how he reacts in the world of Horace Green School.

What’s been your favourite part of starring in School of Rock?
Playing ‘Teachers Pet’ to audiences all round the country. In that moment everything the audience hears is just us playing live on stage. It never fails to give me goosebumps and the reaction from the crowds is next level. The fact that people from all over have the opportunity to see the show is amazing, but the knowledge that we are inspiring the next generation of musical protégées is super cool.

It’s a very high energy show, how do you keep your voice and body strong doing the show every night whilst touring the country?
A lot of water, a lot of sleep and a lot of pasta. It’s been a real personal undertaking to get myself to a fitness level vocally, physically and mentally to be able to keep producing the energy levels that the show requires. But it’s absolutely worth it! Plus pasta is delicious. 

Dewey inspires his students in many ways, did you have an influential teacher growing up?
I did but when it comes to Dewey I always think more about the other adults that have been influential. I grew up playing sports and a lot of the time as a kid I would be around or apart of the adult teams. The way that they treated me as an equal in that environment is how I think Dewey treats the kids. They are all level pegging in the band - it doesn’t matter how old or how ‘cool’ they might seem in ‘normal’ life.

Why do you think people should come and see the show?
I hate it when people say this but it’s completely true for this show. It’s absolutely fun for all the ages. Whether on a date, a solo trip, with kids, with a school - everyone will enjoy School of Rock. It’s high energy, face melting rock and roll and champions live music and being creative. All that was taken away from us during the pandemic is celebrated in the show by some genius young superstars.

Thank you so much Jake for taking the time to chat to me. School of Rock plays at the New Wimbledon Theatre until 26th March and then continues its tour.

Interview by Olivia Mitchell, Editor

photo credit: Paul Coltas
 

Tuesday 8 February 2022

Evelyn Hoskins on Returning to the Diner Post Pandemic | Waitress the Musical | Interview

I think once you’ve seen the show, if it connects with you, you do get a little bit hooked on it!

Waitress, based on the 2007 movie of the same title, follows the story of Jenna, a woman who longs to escape the life she's trapped in. Alongside her friends and her handsome new gynaecologist, she begins to step towards the dreams she's always harboured. Since taking the West End by storm, Waitress is now delighting audiences across the country. Evelyn Hoskins plays Jenna's lovable friend Dawn who's looking for love of her own. Evelyn spoke to us about taking the show on the road and how the pandemic changed her portrayal...


If you were telling someone who knows nothing about Waitress why they should see it, how would you sum it up?

It’s the most joyous, hilarious, heartwarming, life-affirming, beautiful show you could possibly see, especially if you’re a woman!


Is there a song in Waitress that makes you particularly emotional?

Definitely A Soft Place to Land. It’s the song before they sort of glow-up Dawn a little bit before her date and it’s just beautiful. The harmonies are stunning.


You’ve had a kind of different experience with Dawn because you played her pre and post pandemic. So, what was it like originally creating your version of Dawn and do you think she’s changed since you’ve come back to the show?

She’s definitely changed. I saw the original Broadway cast of Waitress in 2016 so I saw Kimiko Glenn play Dawn and Kimiko and I both played a role called Thea in Spring Awakening so we’re obviously similar castings anyway; but I think I was definitely influenced by Kimiko’s portrayal because that was my first impression of Dawn. 


My portrayal has changed since the pandemic, for sure. I mean, more so because I just feel older if I’m honest; and also I'm more grateful to be here. I was grateful anyway because it’s such a dream show and job of mine but now I feel super grateful.


When you were doing the show at the Adelphi, were you already booked to do the tour?

No I wasn’t. The resident director had kind of asked me if I’d be interested but at the time I was due to do six months in the West End so I was a bit like “I don’t know, maybe, I’ll see how I’m feeling” cause obviously a year is a long time. And then when the show closed in the West End, the producers were very kind and asked all of us if we’d be interested and I was like, yeah, because I didn’t feel done with her at all. I’d barely touched the surface so I’m so glad to be doing it.


How was it when you reopened, did you find it emotional?

Yep! I think I was more emotional on the first day of rehearsals when we did a full read and sing through first thing on the Monday morning. Obviously I hadn’t heard the music since the last show so that was super emotional. Also putting on the little waitress dress again!


You know, when we closed it was so uncertain and the tour got pushed back and pushed back, and we didn’t know if it would actually ever happen so it’s so good to be back!




So far, have you noticed any differences between touring the show and playing on the West End?

It’s very interesting to see the different reactions, I don’t know if I could pinpoint what they are though but Northern audiences have been PHENOMENAL, very very loud!


We’re in Bristol this week which I’m super excited about because it’s near my home town and it’ll be great to get to Woking and then we’re in Bromley so we’ll have some more London audiences. But it’s just a really great show to take around the country and make accessible to people.


Definitely, and here compared to the US, people don’t know the film as much so it’s more of a word of mouth show which must be lovely...


Yeah! Honestly I was really surprised at the reaction. We’re sold out most Saturdays and the audiences have been incredible. We also have some very loyal fans and we often see familiar faces most weeks. I think once you’ve seen the show, if it connects with you, you do get a little bit hooked on it!


That’s so lovely, I’m coming to see it with my mum who’s very excited!


I think it’s a phenomenal show to see with your mum! Bring the women in your life because it’s got such girl power.


Leading on nicely, I wanted to know why you think having a female led show like Waitress tour the country is so important?

The themes of the show are so important. There’s the domestic abuse theme which really strengthens the message and importance of female friendship and female support.


I also think it’s important that we start recognising that the other relationships in our life are just as important as the romantic ones and that’s something this show does.

What’s your best piece of advice for aspiring performers?

Believe in yourself. That sounds super cliched but it’s true. My personal experience is not like a traditional one. I’m from quite a working class background. I didn’t grow up with lots of money which obviously would help you if you wanna go to drama school. But, I didn’t do drama school.


So it’s really about the hustle. Just hustle hard. If you really like an actor’s performance, find out who they’re represented by. Reach out to them and say I really like your client, I feel like I would be a good fit for you too. Same with casting directors, if you really enjoy a show and think it would be something you could do, write to them, tell them how much you like the show, just put yourself out there. And don’t feel like drama school is the be all and end all!


Thank you so much to Evelyn for taking the time to chat to me. Waitress runs at the New Victoria Theatre, Woking from 14th to 19th February before continuing its tour.


Interview by Olivia Mitchell, Editor


photo credit: Johan Persson

Monday 23 November 2020

Thespie Present Streamed Concert Series with Dozens of UK Stage Stars


Theatre discovery platform Thespie today announces the Reunited Series, bringing together more than two dozen of the UK’s top musical theatre artists for a series of filmed concerts premiering throughout December. Developed by Aimie Atkinson, Thespie’s Creative Producer and the Olivier nominated star of Pretty Woman and SIX), each concert presents ensemble music performances (filmed in COVID-secure London venues), and ranges from musical theatre hits, to pop music, to favourite Christmas songs. The program of each concert has been developed by the artists involved and will also include intimate interview footage.

 

The concerts are designed to inspire global theatre audiences, by bringing the UK’s best musical theatre talent directly to their homes this holiday season. The artists collectively represent over two and a half centuries of experience on UK stages; their recent credits include The Prince of Egypt, Pretty Woman, SIX, & Juliet, Come From Away, Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, and Kinky Boots.

 

Thespie Creative Producer Aimie Atkinson commented, “We’re thrilled to be bringing you our first shows—high-energy, joyful concerts with great production values and astonishing vocal performances. I am so in awe of the level of talent working with us to make these December shows incredibly special. You are in for a treat.”

 

The series begins with the premiere of Unlimited: The Songs of Stephen Schwartz on 3 Dec at 8pm GMT, a celebration of the famed composer’s works including WickedPippinGodspellChildren of Eden, and The Prince of Egypt, Schwartz’s newest musical. The nine artists in the concert (Nikki Bentley, Sophie Evans, Alice Fearn, Alexia Khadime, Melanie La Barrie, Carl Man, Dianne Pilkington, Liam Tamne, Oliver Tompsett) all starred in Wicked during its first 14 years in London, and two (Khadime, Tamne) are in the current cast of The Prince of Egypt. Schwartz himself will make a special appearance in the program, with further details to be announced.

 

Oops!... I Streamed It Again... premieres 10 Dec at 8pm GMT and is a high-energy concert of favourite classic pop, rock, and musical theatre songs. The concert is performed by five artists who met as part of the original company of the UK musical & Juliet: Jordan Luke Gage, Tim Mahendran, Grace Mouat, Oliver Tompsett, and 2020 Olivier Award Winner Cassidy Janson.

 

Next up is the return of the artists from The Reunion, with an empowering concert of songs by famous girl bands through the decades: Girl Power premieres 17 Dec at 8pm GMT. Expect the tight harmonies and true sisterhood vibes that these artists have come to be known for since they first met as the original West End queens of the musical SIXGirl Power stars Aimie Atkinson, Alexia McIntosh, Grace Mouat, Millie O’Connell, Natalie Paris, Maiya Quansah-Breed and Jarneia Richard-Noel.

 

Finally, the fourth instalment of the Reunited Series arrives on the 21 Dec at 8pm GMT. All I Want For Christmas Is Theatre is a love letter to the tradition of seeing theatre with those you love during the holiday season. More than three dozen top UK theatre artists are lending their talents to this special concert, featuring classic Christmas songs of all styles. Performers from UnlimitedOops!... I Streamed It Again, and Girl Power will all be featured, alongside more than a dozen more, to be announced in the coming weeks.

 

Streaming tickets for a single concert are £12.50 ($15) if booked early (by 30 Nov), or £15 ($18) if purchased in December. (10 other currencies available.) Purchasers of the first three concerts will have 72 hours to watch, and purchasers of All I Want For Christmas Is Theatre will have 7 days to watch with their households. An Extended-Access bundle (£37.50/$45 in Nov; £45/$54 in Dec) gives purchasers access to all four concerts from their premiere through 31 December, and provides a 25% discount over booking the concerts separately. All concerts and the bundle can also be purchased after their premiere, with the same window of access (72 hours, 7 days, or through 31 Dec.)

 

The Reunited Series and Thespie’s original content initiative support its work to foster the connection between artists and audiences on its theatre discovery platform. Thespie’s first original production, The Reunion, was one of the bestselling paid theatre streaming events in the UK, selling tickets to 3600 households across 65 countries; and employed 35 live entertainment workers who received over £30k in income from the event.

 

Thespie founder Tyler Stoops said, “Watching our first concert, The Reunion, revived my spirits, and hundreds of viewers told us how meaningful it was, how inspired they were, and how much fun they had. So I’m thrilled we can deliver four more concerts for audiences at home around the world, just in time for Christmas. I think all of us are ready for some joy and excitement.

 

Thespie offers listings for theatre streaming, theatre music & audio, theatre eBooks, educational resources, live London theatre, theatre news, and more. Audiences can use Thespie to stream the Reunited Series and more than 400 other shows, or to discover over 1000 more shows available on other popular platforms and services, such as Disney+, Amazon Prime, and Audible.