You have performed in some amazing shows so far in your career. What have been some of your highlights?
Paul Kerryson cast me as Louise/Gypsy in the Curve production of GYPSY. It was an incredible time and an incredible production. What a journey I went on in that show, I feel so lucky. Also, creating the role of Daniela for the UK production of IN THE HEIGHTS has to be my absolute soul show. I had fun creating such a vibrant character and making it my own.
I have to honestly say that I needed MURDER BALLAD for my peace of mind. Sam Yates is one of a kind and his brilliance baffles me. He is so bright, generous and the best at getting what he wants in the nicest possible way. He makes a rehearsal room magic and makes everything make sense. He’s a genius. Murder Ballad came at the right time and working with such a dream team from all departments it’s truly been a favourite to date.
You are currently starring in the musical Murder Ballad at the Arts Theatre. For anyone who may not be familiar with the show, what it is about and what character do you play?
It’s about love, lust, betrayal and new beginnings for some! I bring the narrative to this “love triangle” that is the show in the form of the Narrator and that’s all I can and will say about it!
Apart from acting, what is your biggest passion?
The outdoors, wildlife and nature. I worked in London Zoo for 4 years as a younger person and if I wasn’t an actor my alternative was going to be a Zoo Keeper. My life would have been so different. How crazy. A happy one also I have no doubt, as it brings me as much joy.
What has been the funniest or most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you on stage?
It was in the Southwark Playhouse production of In The Heights and we were doing the No Me Digga scene and there was silence to build the drama for a gag I was to deliver at the end of the number. I clapped my hands together and a very heavy beaded bracelet of mine shattered everywhere on stage. The audience, cast, myself and the producers who were in were completely lost it for a solid 2 minutes whilst we tried to collect ourselves. It somehow worked perfect in the scene and would never be able to be recreated again. Very silly. Very funny. I live for moments like that as the industry can be serious at times so this keeps people human. Audience members who were in to this day love telling me they were in for that show.
There are lots of exciting shows coming to London’s theatre district. What are you most looking forward to seeing?
Hamilton, Hamilton …did I say Hamilton?
Who are your biggest inspirations in the theatre industry and why?
Anyone who can keep a sense of humour and do the best work they can.
If you could be the opposite sex for the day, what theatre role would you love to have a go at playing?
Hedwig in Hedwig and the Angry Inch.
If you won the lottery and could stage one theatre show of your choice, what would you choose and who would be your dream cast?
I haven’t got the brain power to answer this as it’s not the sort of thing I would think of! But I would cast myself to keep me busy and in work and then keep Kerry Ellis, Norman Bowman and Ramin Karimloo in work because everyone needs to experience their brilliance. They deserve the best.
Why do you think people should come to see Murder Ballad at the Arts Theatre?
There’s nothing better than seeing a bunch of performers on stage who look so comfortable with each other in a good piece. That is us. We love this show, each other and the energy is cracking. You like and listen to rock, punk, folk and country? We will bring that to the table. We’re on till December 3rd and would love to have you!
MURDER BALLAD plays at the Arts Theatre until 3 December 2016. Tickets
