Simon Bailey (JERSEY BOYS) has Tea With Wilma

For those who may not be familiar with your work, can you give me a little run down of some of your career highlights so far?
I’ve been very lucky to have been in many great shows, but the highlights would have to be playing Raoul in London and on the 25th anniversary tour of Phantom of the Opera and achieving a gold record with a band I was a part of – Teatro.

You’re currently starring in ‘JERSEY BOYS’ at the Piccadilly Theatre. What is the show about and what attracted you to the part you are playing?
I love the energy and the heart of this show, and I’ve always wanted to play Tommy. I went to the very first press night for Jersey Boys in 2008 and it felt like an instant classic. I really admire Tommy’s need to survive. I may not agree with his methods but that’s why he’s so fun to play!

There are so many jukebox musicals out there, some becoming a huge success and others not doing so well. What do you think Jersey Boys has to offer that maybe some other shows don’t?
Jersey Boys isn’t a jukebox musical, it’s biographical. That’s why it’s so special. People can really relate to the story of the Four Seasons which is why audiences keep coming back for more. It’s genius.

There are lots of exciting shows coming to London in 2016. What are you most looking forward to seeing?
I think, like most people, I’m intrigued and excited about Aladdin. I’ll be going to see that for sure.

You’re playing one of the Four Seasons so it would seem wrong not to ask you what your favourite season of the year is. What’s your favourite season?!
I love autumn as everything looks for beautiful and picturesque – the streets are full of colour. I used to like summer but it’s just too much of a let-down now!

If you could be the opposite sex for the day, what theatre role would you love to have a go at playing?
When I was in Les Mis, I always loved the character of Fantine – there aren’t too many roles like that, and it’s really special so I would love to play her if we could switch it up.

Can you complete this sentence: People should come and see Jersey Boys because it’s the best night out you’ll have at the theatre!

Thanks for having Tea With Wilma

Jersey Boys is currently booking at the Piccadilly Theatre until 23 October 2016. Tickets