For those who may not be familiar with your work, can you give me a little rundown of some of your career highlights so far?
I had my first professional stage job at 18 in Spring Awakening. After that I went into the 25th Anniversary tour of Les Mis; getting to be involved in a reimagining of such a classic was an amazing experience. And then from there I did Love Story, Rock of Ages and The Light Princess, all completely different styles and set ups. I played my first lead in Dogfight at the Southwark Playhouse and then after Mirrors and Hearts I’m playing Anthony in the WNO’s Sweeney Todd. So my highlight is how varied my jobs have been!
You are about to join the cast of The House of Mirrors and Hearts at the Arcola Theatre. Can you explain what the show is about?
It’s the story of a family who are forced to confront their past. They’ve spent seven years covering up a dark secret and the entrance of my character forces them to bring it to light.
What attracted you to the part you are playing in the show?
I had an odd route into the show; Bart Edwards who was supposed to be playing my part had to withdraw from it, so I got the call asking if I was free! Luckily as an actor you spend a lot of time ‘free’ so here I am!
Do you have any dream roles that you would like to have a go at playing?
My favourite thing is working on new pieces and helping create things so I suppose my dream role is anything fun and new.
If you could be the opposite sex for the day, which female theatre role would you like to play?
Maybe someone in Hair so I could show off my brand new bush and boobs to the world!
Have you ever had any funny/disastrous on-stage experiences?
When I went on for Olly Tompsett in Rock Of Ages there was a bit where I had to run on the spot on my own in a spotlight whilst singing. I’m the least co-ordinated person ever and couldn’t not run with the same arm and leg… Every single time. They still don’t let me live it down!
Why do you think people should come and see The House of Mirrors and Hearts?
I think it’s important to support new writing, especially when it’s British and especially when it’s this good and especially when it’s original writing and not based on a film or book and especially when you don’t have to pay West End prices!
Thanks for having Tea With Wilma
The House of Mirrors and Hearts plays at Arcola Theatre from Thursday 2 July to Saturday 1 August 2015. For more information and tickets visit www.arcolatheatre.com.