So Danielle Hope is going to be Dorothy. Now don't get me wrong, congratulations to her, and let me say at this stage, I am not having a swipe at her talent or commitment. So please please please don't have a whinge saying how good she is. I am not disputing this one bit. I am just disappointed that we now resort to reality TV programmes to find new talent for London's West End musicals, especially when there are people just as equally talented who have worked a million times harder going through the conventional route of drama schools etc to make a name for themselves and fulfil their dreams that they have worked so hard to get to.
Unless you strike it lucky, its drama school, then a host of shows with opportunities growing each time, starting in the ensemble and eventually making it to a lead role if you play your cards right. Success isn't just thrust upon you, it takes a lot of hard work, and I suppose a bit of luck. John Barrowman's first big UK show was opposite Elaine Paige in "Anything Goes", he happened to be in the right place at the right time. A drama school trip in London, where via a family member in his native Scotland he learned of the auditions for the part. He went along, wowed creative team, and got the part without even finishing drama school... so never discount luck (when accompanied by talent of course). Either way, I just think it is wrong that someone should have it made so easy for them in comparison to the "normal" route an actor or actress would take to the top.
Now as a friend pointed out, television shows like this have drawn new people into the theatres. People who maybe wouldn't have gone before, and I think the ticket sales over the last few years really do represent this. Cameron Mackintosh said in an interview that during the recession ticket sales at his theatres were actually doing better than the boom years before hand. He cited that during the last year when money has been tight for so many, people were not taking holidays and therefore had opted for days out instead.
Whilst there may be some truth in this, I can't say I fully agree with Mr. Mackintosh. I think that there is a much younger audience at the theatres these days, certainly more so than five or ten years back, when the theatre was seen as entertainment for the mature middle class married couple. I however feel now days that theatre is becoming more accessible for people of all backgrounds, namely due to there being more family shows and musicals in London than ever before. In my opinion the market has simply shifted meaning there are more people that want to go to the theatre than in years gone by. I will admit that these reality TV shows have their benefits as they have helped the increase in business for numerous shows, but I can't help but wonder if there are better ways to get our London productions exposure on television.
I know some people will point out the obvious, that many of the contestants on these shows are already drama school students. Thinking back to the days where they were hunting for someone to play Joseph, there is a great example that springs to mind... you know? The show which Daniel Boys should have won. It was a shame that the other bloke was victorious, mind you... he didn't do too bad out of it. He married Denise Van Outen if I recall correctly. Though what is bugging me at the time of writing this is that I cannot remember his name for the life of me.
Anyhow back to Daniel Boys, he was a member of a local amateur dramatics society locally to me. He went on to study at the Guildford School of Acting, and after his disappointment in the search for Joseph (i forget what the show was actually called... I want to say "Any Dream Will Do" but I have an inclination that I may be wrong) he landed a role for 2 years in Avenue Q, went on tour with John Barrowman and recorded a cd of his own (which is very good I will have you know, its called "So Close", go buy it from I-Tunes... after you have finished reading my blog of course). If truth be known, I think he has made more of a name for himself than Lee Mead has (yes I did have to Google his name, it was bugging me that I couldn't remember). I believe Lee is in Wicked these days, but I may be wrong... none the less Daniel, for a runner up hasn't done too badly at all!
Like Daniel both Lee Mead and Danielle Hope have come from drama studies to these television reality shows, and I don't dispute that they both have talent and have worked hard to get where theyare. I just cant help but feel that students who have taken the conventional drama school routes, will feel short changed. The only consolation is, those who make their name in theatre the hard way are remembered, take Elaine Paige or John Barrowman... they are names that are loved and respected among theatre goers. Will the likes of Jodie Prenger or Danielle Hope be remembered in such high esteem in ten or twenty years time? I'm not so sure they will.
Sunday, 23 May 2010
Saturday, 22 May 2010
Jerusalem
Mark Rylance... Its not a name I had come across before now, I have to be honest most of my focus is on musicals, so no matter how good an actor someone may be, if they haven't been in a musical the chances are I will not know who they are. But just like the seasons of the year, I too am changing, I have found a passion for plays at the moment. Maybe it is down to the fact that I am in a couple over the next 12 months, or maybe Ive just got bored of musicals having currently seen the vast majority of the ones which are on in the West End at the moment.
Mark Rylance came to my attention when I decided I wanted to see the show Jerusalem, which was running for a limited season at The Apollo Theatre on Shaftsbury Avenue until the end of last month. There was a lot of hype about the show, which won Mark an Olivier for best actor. Tickets were also very hard to come by, and I was extremely lucky to get mine I hasten to add. But as we all know, I am a tad fussy. Lets face it I don't really like Wicked the Musical all that much... and everyone loves Wicked! So there was every chance too that this too wouldn't live up to my expectations. I do also have a tendancy to pick wholes in productions also, so it would be interesting to see how this would fair in the Gareth ratings.
Thankfully I can tell you it blew me away. Rylance is one hell of an actor who brought the role of Johnny Byron to life. So much depth, passion and diversity, he captured Byron's ever changing emotions throughout whilst maintaining the characterisation he had meticulously pieced together for the role. Also in the show, staring as "Ginger", best known for roles in that terrible comedy "The Office" and of course "Pirates of the Caribbean" was Mackenzie Crook. Another fantastic actor, though I must say... I absolutely hated "The Office", I have never come across a so called comedy that has lacked humour, what a boring series that was. Quite how it was as successful as it was I will never know. But rest assured my prejudice against the show was not held against Mackenzie Crook personally, he is an outstanding actor who seemed so at home on the big stage where he forged a fantastic rapport with Rylance.
I guess all that went against the show in my opinion was its length. 3 acts and over 3 hours long, I think they dragged it out a little too much. There were parts of the show that could have easily have been edited out, but that said its a minor criticism of a fabulous show. Though I will be honest the ending was a little weak by my liking. I think I would have liked to seen Byron go out with a bang. When his past catches up with him which results in him being brutally beaten and branded, he commits suicide by torching his caravan, at least that is what you are supposed to believe. These final moments were strung out and in my opinion just lacked the adrenalin that it needed to finish the show in a dramatic fashion.
The scenery however was in a league of its own. It is by far the best and most realistic set I have ever seen. You could easily think you were in a forest, the trees and shrubbery were so real, the addition of live chickens (among other creatures) gave you a sense that you really were among the great out doors. I have seen many shows but not a single set has come close to the design of Jerusalem. Whoever designed it is a genius! I think it is too easy to forget the people behind the scenes who make shows like this happen. So a fantastic job Mr set designer, whoever you may be!
In all, a little long but outstanding throughout, the show was bursting with quality. Its just a shame it was only on for a limited season, I think it could have gone on for a couple more months or more with ease. The extremely limited availability of tickets would back this up too. But thats life I suppose.
Mark Rylance came to my attention when I decided I wanted to see the show Jerusalem, which was running for a limited season at The Apollo Theatre on Shaftsbury Avenue until the end of last month. There was a lot of hype about the show, which won Mark an Olivier for best actor. Tickets were also very hard to come by, and I was extremely lucky to get mine I hasten to add. But as we all know, I am a tad fussy. Lets face it I don't really like Wicked the Musical all that much... and everyone loves Wicked! So there was every chance too that this too wouldn't live up to my expectations. I do also have a tendancy to pick wholes in productions also, so it would be interesting to see how this would fair in the Gareth ratings.
Thankfully I can tell you it blew me away. Rylance is one hell of an actor who brought the role of Johnny Byron to life. So much depth, passion and diversity, he captured Byron's ever changing emotions throughout whilst maintaining the characterisation he had meticulously pieced together for the role. Also in the show, staring as "Ginger", best known for roles in that terrible comedy "The Office" and of course "Pirates of the Caribbean" was Mackenzie Crook. Another fantastic actor, though I must say... I absolutely hated "The Office", I have never come across a so called comedy that has lacked humour, what a boring series that was. Quite how it was as successful as it was I will never know. But rest assured my prejudice against the show was not held against Mackenzie Crook personally, he is an outstanding actor who seemed so at home on the big stage where he forged a fantastic rapport with Rylance.
I guess all that went against the show in my opinion was its length. 3 acts and over 3 hours long, I think they dragged it out a little too much. There were parts of the show that could have easily have been edited out, but that said its a minor criticism of a fabulous show. Though I will be honest the ending was a little weak by my liking. I think I would have liked to seen Byron go out with a bang. When his past catches up with him which results in him being brutally beaten and branded, he commits suicide by torching his caravan, at least that is what you are supposed to believe. These final moments were strung out and in my opinion just lacked the adrenalin that it needed to finish the show in a dramatic fashion.
The scenery however was in a league of its own. It is by far the best and most realistic set I have ever seen. You could easily think you were in a forest, the trees and shrubbery were so real, the addition of live chickens (among other creatures) gave you a sense that you really were among the great out doors. I have seen many shows but not a single set has come close to the design of Jerusalem. Whoever designed it is a genius! I think it is too easy to forget the people behind the scenes who make shows like this happen. So a fantastic job Mr set designer, whoever you may be!
In all, a little long but outstanding throughout, the show was bursting with quality. Its just a shame it was only on for a limited season, I think it could have gone on for a couple more months or more with ease. The extremely limited availability of tickets would back this up too. But thats life I suppose.
Saturday, 1 May 2010
The Connor Doyle Legacy Continues
Remember Connor Doyle? If you are a regular at Billy Elliot The Musical or sad enough to read my blogs on a regular basis it will be a name you will have heard many times. Connor first came to my attention in the summer of 2009, (opposed to the summer of 69) when he was cast for a six month spell in Billy Elliot The Musical playing the role of Michael. I have always been of the opinion that the supporting actors have a responsibility greater than the lead when it comes to bringing the show to life. After all it is these support actors who mould the storyline for the principals.
Having seen multiple boys in the role of Michael I knew from the start that Connor was something special. He stood out from the crowd, he was better than the rest. At this time all the attention was on Jake Pratt who had found five minutes of fame on Britain's Got Talent... shame Jake never had much talent... but lets not go there. The fact is Connor was overshadowed by Jake's five minutes of glory. Well not exactly overshadowed, it never really phased Connor at all... he simply went out there and showed them who was boss. He would wow one audience after another, in fact I would safely say from what I heard as people left the show, he left a bigger imprint on their memories than any other Michael or in some cases the Billy.
In the early stages of this year however Connor was invited back to the show to plug a gap in the rosta between George Maycock leaving and Joe Massey starting as Michael. Despite on paper having outgrown the role, he accepted the challenge. I must say this was great news, not only for me as someone who holds Connor in such high esteem, but also for the show, which in my opinion would never be able to replace Connor with someone of the same or higher standard. Mind you, I did say the same about Lewis Cope... then Connor came along. But we all know that lightning never strikes twice!
The question on everyone's lips however was "Could Connor do it?", after all having been away from the show for 5 months, there was always the risk that he would be rusty and be unable to get up to peed in the 3 - 4 weeks he had to perform in. Well for all you doubters out there, I can assure you it was like having the old Connor back again... ok quite a bit taller and much deeper, but still an outstanding performer. So natural, and suited to the role, he works the comical moments to his favour, steeling the show. I saw him alongside Dean as Billy on one of his first shows back, and I have to be honest, he out performed Dean ten fold. Now I will be honest, as nice a guy as Dean maybe, he has yet to impress me as a Billy. Furthermore Connor even out performed Tom Holland who I have spoken of highly in the past. He simply doesn't settle for second best.
Although I have seen the show many times with many different people, I actually finally managed to convince my mum to see the show, she had never been before, and in honesty had never shown any interest in seeing the show either. Now I must stress my mum loves theatre. We go together once or twice a month, so had she of wanted to see it she would have by now. Because of all my various commitments I don't often have too much time to spend with family, so its nice to have this time with my mum. Anyway, she had never been too keen on seeing Billy, but interestingly was very keen to see Connor. I think she realised what a positive influence ha had been to me in my own acting work, I guess she wanted to see what all the fuss was about. Well, she liked the show, and thought Connor was outstanding... now for someone who wasn't too keen on even seeing the show in the first place, that is quite a statement.
Whats more it gave me chance to catch up with Connor and his family, something I hadn't been able to do at least face to face for some time. Whats nice is Connor has always taken the time to acknowledge me, come over for a chat, hell I even got a hug after the final show. Its nice to feel appreciated.
So whats next for Connor? The future is looking very optimistic, he has some television work lined up among other things. I don't know if I am allowed to say wheat he is doing publicly just yet, so I will save it for another blog another time. But its exciting times for Connor and I think you will be seeing a lot more of him in the future... and I will be honest, he deserves all the success in the world. A genuine nice guy with a lot of talent!
Having seen multiple boys in the role of Michael I knew from the start that Connor was something special. He stood out from the crowd, he was better than the rest. At this time all the attention was on Jake Pratt who had found five minutes of fame on Britain's Got Talent... shame Jake never had much talent... but lets not go there. The fact is Connor was overshadowed by Jake's five minutes of glory. Well not exactly overshadowed, it never really phased Connor at all... he simply went out there and showed them who was boss. He would wow one audience after another, in fact I would safely say from what I heard as people left the show, he left a bigger imprint on their memories than any other Michael or in some cases the Billy.
In the early stages of this year however Connor was invited back to the show to plug a gap in the rosta between George Maycock leaving and Joe Massey starting as Michael. Despite on paper having outgrown the role, he accepted the challenge. I must say this was great news, not only for me as someone who holds Connor in such high esteem, but also for the show, which in my opinion would never be able to replace Connor with someone of the same or higher standard. Mind you, I did say the same about Lewis Cope... then Connor came along. But we all know that lightning never strikes twice!
The question on everyone's lips however was "Could Connor do it?", after all having been away from the show for 5 months, there was always the risk that he would be rusty and be unable to get up to peed in the 3 - 4 weeks he had to perform in. Well for all you doubters out there, I can assure you it was like having the old Connor back again... ok quite a bit taller and much deeper, but still an outstanding performer. So natural, and suited to the role, he works the comical moments to his favour, steeling the show. I saw him alongside Dean as Billy on one of his first shows back, and I have to be honest, he out performed Dean ten fold. Now I will be honest, as nice a guy as Dean maybe, he has yet to impress me as a Billy. Furthermore Connor even out performed Tom Holland who I have spoken of highly in the past. He simply doesn't settle for second best.
Although I have seen the show many times with many different people, I actually finally managed to convince my mum to see the show, she had never been before, and in honesty had never shown any interest in seeing the show either. Now I must stress my mum loves theatre. We go together once or twice a month, so had she of wanted to see it she would have by now. Because of all my various commitments I don't often have too much time to spend with family, so its nice to have this time with my mum. Anyway, she had never been too keen on seeing Billy, but interestingly was very keen to see Connor. I think she realised what a positive influence ha had been to me in my own acting work, I guess she wanted to see what all the fuss was about. Well, she liked the show, and thought Connor was outstanding... now for someone who wasn't too keen on even seeing the show in the first place, that is quite a statement.
Whats more it gave me chance to catch up with Connor and his family, something I hadn't been able to do at least face to face for some time. Whats nice is Connor has always taken the time to acknowledge me, come over for a chat, hell I even got a hug after the final show. Its nice to feel appreciated.
So whats next for Connor? The future is looking very optimistic, he has some television work lined up among other things. I don't know if I am allowed to say wheat he is doing publicly just yet, so I will save it for another blog another time. But its exciting times for Connor and I think you will be seeing a lot more of him in the future... and I will be honest, he deserves all the success in the world. A genuine nice guy with a lot of talent!
Wednesday, 7 April 2010
Happy Birthday Billy!
Five Years... thats 60 months, 1826 days, 43824 hours or 2629440 minutes, it depends how you look at it. But regardless of how you see or interpret a moment in time, its fair to say that 5 years is a long time. It certainly is in London's West End, a place that sees few productions last more than 5 months, let alone 5 years, but... win over the audience's and it seems as though you can be there for good.
Last month Billy Elliot The Musical celebrated its 5th birthday, among a star studded audience, including the likes of Sir Elton John, David Walliams and of course me. At this stage I would like to clarify that the red carpet was in fact rolled out just for me, out of the kindness of my heart I allowed everyone else to use it! Please do not be under any illusion that it was there for the likes of B-list celebs such as Elton John... he knows he is below me in the celebrity listings. Its a sore subject for him... ok maybe not... well I can dream can't I? One day I tell you... one day... anyway moving on...
In a nut shell the show itself would be just like any other. Fronted by Tom Holland, who is now the longest serving current Billy, with the amazing Fox Jackson-Keen having left just days earlier. This of course was preceded with a speech by Elton John, Lee Hall and the shows director Stephen Daldry. Talking of the last five years, it really did sound a remarkable story that the show made it as big as it has. Whats more its popularity has strengthened with the productions opening on Broadway last year. Is there anything that will stand in the way of this show as it goes from strength to strength?
Though if I am honest, nobody was really there for the show tonight, well not as such. What was to be very special about this evening would be the finale, which would see 19 past, present and future Billy's perform together in a specially choreographed collaboration of dance. As the curtain at the Victoria Palace Theatre raises, applause and cheers fill the auditorium as each and every one of the 1500 strong audience are on their feet, christ the walls were shaking from the noise as the outline of three familiar figures stood before us. Re-united once more on stage, the three original London Billy's - Liam Mower, George McGuire and James Lomas were greeted with a well deserved standing ovation.
It doesn't sound like much, but the moment was really something special. For me there were some extra special strings attached, but we will talk of those another day. I was still in awe at seeing the three now grown up Billy's on stage as they burst into dance alongside the other 15 Billy's who had joined them on the night. It was hard to see who was who, as at almost any one moment there were three of four, sometimes more Billy's on stage. Most recognisable for me was Fox with one of his signature pieces of acrobatics and of course the unforgettable Liam Mower finishing the Billy section of the performance with some picture perfect turns, you truly had to see it to believe it, they were spectacular! Seriously I am no expert in ballet, but they were good, amazing in fact.
The billy section of the dance was brought to an end by 4 of the shows recent Michael's who took to the stage with a short tap routine. From a personal perspective it was great to see Connor Doyle back on stage who returns to the show in April to fill a gap in the cast until the new Michael arrives in May. Alongside Connor Doyle, George Maycock who left the show just days earlier, Connor Kelly who performed as Michael at the birthday show and Jake Pratt the remaining current Michael. As the tap routine continued, the four boys were re-joined by the Billy's who ensured the finale finished with a bang!
Wow... just wow... words at this point couldn't convey the energy and feeling in the auditorium. I don't think it would have mattered if you were a huge fan of the show or not, those three or four minutes were something really special. The atmosphere was electric, and that buzz went on into the night, as I set out on my quest to meet someone very special in my eyes. But that is for another blog. No really I will tell you who... just not yet...
So in summery... what a night. I don't even remember the show, just those five minutes at the end made it so worthwhile being there. But to see Fox, Liam and Connor, three of my very favorite actors all on one stage at the same time, well that is really something else, and has created a memory that will stick with me for a long time to come.
Last month Billy Elliot The Musical celebrated its 5th birthday, among a star studded audience, including the likes of Sir Elton John, David Walliams and of course me. At this stage I would like to clarify that the red carpet was in fact rolled out just for me, out of the kindness of my heart I allowed everyone else to use it! Please do not be under any illusion that it was there for the likes of B-list celebs such as Elton John... he knows he is below me in the celebrity listings. Its a sore subject for him... ok maybe not... well I can dream can't I? One day I tell you... one day... anyway moving on...
In a nut shell the show itself would be just like any other. Fronted by Tom Holland, who is now the longest serving current Billy, with the amazing Fox Jackson-Keen having left just days earlier. This of course was preceded with a speech by Elton John, Lee Hall and the shows director Stephen Daldry. Talking of the last five years, it really did sound a remarkable story that the show made it as big as it has. Whats more its popularity has strengthened with the productions opening on Broadway last year. Is there anything that will stand in the way of this show as it goes from strength to strength?
Though if I am honest, nobody was really there for the show tonight, well not as such. What was to be very special about this evening would be the finale, which would see 19 past, present and future Billy's perform together in a specially choreographed collaboration of dance. As the curtain at the Victoria Palace Theatre raises, applause and cheers fill the auditorium as each and every one of the 1500 strong audience are on their feet, christ the walls were shaking from the noise as the outline of three familiar figures stood before us. Re-united once more on stage, the three original London Billy's - Liam Mower, George McGuire and James Lomas were greeted with a well deserved standing ovation.
It doesn't sound like much, but the moment was really something special. For me there were some extra special strings attached, but we will talk of those another day. I was still in awe at seeing the three now grown up Billy's on stage as they burst into dance alongside the other 15 Billy's who had joined them on the night. It was hard to see who was who, as at almost any one moment there were three of four, sometimes more Billy's on stage. Most recognisable for me was Fox with one of his signature pieces of acrobatics and of course the unforgettable Liam Mower finishing the Billy section of the performance with some picture perfect turns, you truly had to see it to believe it, they were spectacular! Seriously I am no expert in ballet, but they were good, amazing in fact.
The billy section of the dance was brought to an end by 4 of the shows recent Michael's who took to the stage with a short tap routine. From a personal perspective it was great to see Connor Doyle back on stage who returns to the show in April to fill a gap in the cast until the new Michael arrives in May. Alongside Connor Doyle, George Maycock who left the show just days earlier, Connor Kelly who performed as Michael at the birthday show and Jake Pratt the remaining current Michael. As the tap routine continued, the four boys were re-joined by the Billy's who ensured the finale finished with a bang!
Wow... just wow... words at this point couldn't convey the energy and feeling in the auditorium. I don't think it would have mattered if you were a huge fan of the show or not, those three or four minutes were something really special. The atmosphere was electric, and that buzz went on into the night, as I set out on my quest to meet someone very special in my eyes. But that is for another blog. No really I will tell you who... just not yet...
So in summery... what a night. I don't even remember the show, just those five minutes at the end made it so worthwhile being there. But to see Fox, Liam and Connor, three of my very favorite actors all on one stage at the same time, well that is really something else, and has created a memory that will stick with me for a long time to come.
Friday, 2 April 2010
Two Hundred And One
If you are a regular reader of these blogs, you may have come across the name Fox Jackson-Keen, a talented young actor who has been nothing but an inspiration to me from the very first time I saw him perform. He is best known for playing the role of Billy in Billy Elliot the Musical. Well... as with all great actors there comes a time where they have to move on to pastures new, and sadly that time has come for Fox who gave his 201st and final performance as Billy on Saturday 27th March 2010.
So why 201 performances? surly finishing on 200 would have been a nice rounded figure? Well yes, indeed it would.... And no, its not how the cookie crumbled, there is a story behind all of this. It goes something along these lines... Once upon a time, long ago there was a young gentleman by the name of Leon Cooke, who if my memory serves me right was the 4th boy to play Billy. Leon loved to perform and held the record of the most performances which stood at 200 shows. Many Billy's fought the mighty Leon (Not to be mixed up with Kings of Leon who are awful) but failed, falling short of the golden 200 shows. What we need in this story now is a super hero to save the day... lets call him Fox! In giving his 201st performance as his final show in the role of Billy, Fox goes out with a bang setting a new record for the production, and everyone lives happily ever after! (Except maybe Leon, whos record has been broken... poor Leon!) Anyone think I should go into writing fairy tales instead of blogs?
Anyhow on a serious note, this was a record breaking evening for Fox, who delivered a fantastic show. Fox only has one standard of performance, and that is outstanding. I remember once seeing a show where he missed a flip in Electricity, he was mortified, so upset at himself. What he didn't realise however was that the rest of the show was above his already high standards, and from the perspective of a fan and theatre goer, the small slip didn't even notice. This does however show the perfectionist that Fox has become. Its not a bad thing either, its what has made him the best Billy of all time in many peoples opinions. This too is what always spurred me on. Seeing the commitment, dedication and self-belief Fox has, it really is something else! It is definitely more than I have seen from the vast majority of actors in the West End. They could all learn something from Fox thats for sure!
It goes without saying that tonight was no exception in Fox's high standards. "Angry Dance" was laced with teen angst and aggression. "Electricity" was packed out with stunning acrobatics and "The Letter" was emotionally fueled to the max. I could go as far as saying that this was one of my favorite shows to date. It was the first time I had seen Fox partner George Maycock as Michael, who incidentally was also performing his final show. There is a real chemistry between Fox and George, which shone through beautifully in "Expressing Yourself", and i think it was only when George tactfully added the line "Come on Billy! Its our last time doing this" during the energetic tap routine that it really sunk in.... two great performers were actually leaving the show I have come to love so much!
What is nice about final nights is that cast members arent afraid to make little alterations to the script much like George did in "Expressing Yourself", but for me what was possibly one of the sweetest moments I have ever seen in a live performance was delivered by Francesca Mango in the role of Debbie. Towards the end of the show, there is a scene where Billy returns to the dance school run by Mrs Wilkinson. All the ballet girls surround Billy wanting attention with the exception of Debbie. Mrs Wilkinson promptly sends the girls on a toilet break, which is the point where Debbie unsuccessfully attempts to go speak to Billy before being ushered off by her mum. Instead of the usual, response Francesca gave Fox a huge hug before scuttling off stage. It was so unbelievably sweet, but also goes to show what high regard Fox is held in by the cast who have worked with him over the last two years.
Its no surprise really that Fox is as loved as he is by fans and cast alike. Even if you take his immense ability to perform out of the equation, he is a really nice boy. I am quite shy and haven't spoken to him too much at all. In hindsight I wish I wasn't so shy around some people, because I would have loved to of chatted to him more. I would love to know where he draws his inspirations and what keeps him at the highest possible levels of perfection on a day to day basis. Though this aside, he has the time for everyone, and full credit must go to his family also who have allowed him to build up a strong rapport with his growing legions of fans. I know I wont be the only person to miss him, and there is a lot of weight on the shoulders of Rhys Yeomans, his replacement to fill Fox's shoes, I think we all wait with baited breath!
So whats next for Fox? Truthfully I think a return to normality for a little while is in order. Some rest and recuperation is well deserved. I sincerely hope that we haven't seen the last of him. Few people can make a lasting impression like he has on me. I know I am not alone in saying this either, it truly is the general consensus of many of the shows loyal fans. Later on this year I take to the stage myself in my first large (ish)production. I can comfortably say without Fox I wouldn't have found that fuel to propel me to this.
I look back at the first show where I saw Fox alongside Lewis Cope (an amazing guy... left the show a year ago and is still greatly missed!), that started a new chapter in my life. A new attitude, one that says I WILL make it... and when I do, I will owe much of it to Fox who kick started that new found level of confidence within me. So this said, I really hope Fox does make a return to the stage, but no matter what his choices in life turn out to be, he will always have my 100% belief and support, I really hope our paths cross again some day.
Until then I have the memories of a fantastic Billy and enough inspiration to last a life time.
G xxx
So why 201 performances? surly finishing on 200 would have been a nice rounded figure? Well yes, indeed it would.... And no, its not how the cookie crumbled, there is a story behind all of this. It goes something along these lines... Once upon a time, long ago there was a young gentleman by the name of Leon Cooke, who if my memory serves me right was the 4th boy to play Billy. Leon loved to perform and held the record of the most performances which stood at 200 shows. Many Billy's fought the mighty Leon (Not to be mixed up with Kings of Leon who are awful) but failed, falling short of the golden 200 shows. What we need in this story now is a super hero to save the day... lets call him Fox! In giving his 201st performance as his final show in the role of Billy, Fox goes out with a bang setting a new record for the production, and everyone lives happily ever after! (Except maybe Leon, whos record has been broken... poor Leon!) Anyone think I should go into writing fairy tales instead of blogs?
Anyhow on a serious note, this was a record breaking evening for Fox, who delivered a fantastic show. Fox only has one standard of performance, and that is outstanding. I remember once seeing a show where he missed a flip in Electricity, he was mortified, so upset at himself. What he didn't realise however was that the rest of the show was above his already high standards, and from the perspective of a fan and theatre goer, the small slip didn't even notice. This does however show the perfectionist that Fox has become. Its not a bad thing either, its what has made him the best Billy of all time in many peoples opinions. This too is what always spurred me on. Seeing the commitment, dedication and self-belief Fox has, it really is something else! It is definitely more than I have seen from the vast majority of actors in the West End. They could all learn something from Fox thats for sure!
It goes without saying that tonight was no exception in Fox's high standards. "Angry Dance" was laced with teen angst and aggression. "Electricity" was packed out with stunning acrobatics and "The Letter" was emotionally fueled to the max. I could go as far as saying that this was one of my favorite shows to date. It was the first time I had seen Fox partner George Maycock as Michael, who incidentally was also performing his final show. There is a real chemistry between Fox and George, which shone through beautifully in "Expressing Yourself", and i think it was only when George tactfully added the line "Come on Billy! Its our last time doing this" during the energetic tap routine that it really sunk in.... two great performers were actually leaving the show I have come to love so much!
What is nice about final nights is that cast members arent afraid to make little alterations to the script much like George did in "Expressing Yourself", but for me what was possibly one of the sweetest moments I have ever seen in a live performance was delivered by Francesca Mango in the role of Debbie. Towards the end of the show, there is a scene where Billy returns to the dance school run by Mrs Wilkinson. All the ballet girls surround Billy wanting attention with the exception of Debbie. Mrs Wilkinson promptly sends the girls on a toilet break, which is the point where Debbie unsuccessfully attempts to go speak to Billy before being ushered off by her mum. Instead of the usual, response Francesca gave Fox a huge hug before scuttling off stage. It was so unbelievably sweet, but also goes to show what high regard Fox is held in by the cast who have worked with him over the last two years.
Its no surprise really that Fox is as loved as he is by fans and cast alike. Even if you take his immense ability to perform out of the equation, he is a really nice boy. I am quite shy and haven't spoken to him too much at all. In hindsight I wish I wasn't so shy around some people, because I would have loved to of chatted to him more. I would love to know where he draws his inspirations and what keeps him at the highest possible levels of perfection on a day to day basis. Though this aside, he has the time for everyone, and full credit must go to his family also who have allowed him to build up a strong rapport with his growing legions of fans. I know I wont be the only person to miss him, and there is a lot of weight on the shoulders of Rhys Yeomans, his replacement to fill Fox's shoes, I think we all wait with baited breath!
So whats next for Fox? Truthfully I think a return to normality for a little while is in order. Some rest and recuperation is well deserved. I sincerely hope that we haven't seen the last of him. Few people can make a lasting impression like he has on me. I know I am not alone in saying this either, it truly is the general consensus of many of the shows loyal fans. Later on this year I take to the stage myself in my first large (ish)production. I can comfortably say without Fox I wouldn't have found that fuel to propel me to this.
I look back at the first show where I saw Fox alongside Lewis Cope (an amazing guy... left the show a year ago and is still greatly missed!), that started a new chapter in my life. A new attitude, one that says I WILL make it... and when I do, I will owe much of it to Fox who kick started that new found level of confidence within me. So this said, I really hope Fox does make a return to the stage, but no matter what his choices in life turn out to be, he will always have my 100% belief and support, I really hope our paths cross again some day.
Until then I have the memories of a fantastic Billy and enough inspiration to last a life time.
G xxx
Sunday, 28 March 2010
Our Country's Bad... Bad... BAD!!!
So the first performance of the year is finally upon me....EEEK! I have to be honest I could have worked harder for this, but when there is a group unity missing, it feels like you are working towards a worthless cause sometimes. It is easy to forget that you are really out for yourself in acting land. As they say its a dog eat dog world... or I guess in this case, actor eat actor world... though if i am honest I never have fancied eating an actor before. But if I did, I would imagine they would taste like chicken, wouldn't you?
Anyhow, before the performance had even started we found out we were to be down an actor. All be it for genuine reasons, but frustrating none the less. Want to know whats worse? The missing actor was a core part in the play... OUCH! Oh and did I mention that there weren't any understudies? All be it Daniel, another guy on the course valiantly stood in, but as you can imagine with someone introduced so late on, the balance was lost and all that had been covered in rehearsals was best part wasted. We had just one full run through with Daniel before the final performance, and I will give him his dues he did a great job in the circumstances.
So lets jump to the end of the evening now. The point where we got our feedback. Now Cat is always pretty straight talking. You know she will be fair when she assesses your work. What came next was a shock to me, our teacher said that she liked my characterisation of the role, and that it was a generally good performance from me. As ever I was faulted on my articulation, but this has always been a flaw of mine, I speak too fast, and unless I concentrate I forget about this in performance. The point is however I got a generally positive set of notes from the performance.
So I must be happy right? Not at all. I couldn't disagree more with my teacher! I felt my characterisation was poor, as was my movement, and well... everything was poor. I am actually embarrassed by that performance, good feedback or otherwise! Some people say I am too harsh on myself. But me, I disagree, I set my bar higher than others, and if i don't reach it, I have failed. Too many people take comfort in being part of the crowd, but you never get noticed as an individual unless you step out of that crowd and make a statement! And I want to make that statement!
So what next? Well I put a bad performance behind me, close the door on this blog and move on! Only next time I will be much better. I guess we all have our off days, and this was definitely one of mine!!!
G xxx
Anyhow, before the performance had even started we found out we were to be down an actor. All be it for genuine reasons, but frustrating none the less. Want to know whats worse? The missing actor was a core part in the play... OUCH! Oh and did I mention that there weren't any understudies? All be it Daniel, another guy on the course valiantly stood in, but as you can imagine with someone introduced so late on, the balance was lost and all that had been covered in rehearsals was best part wasted. We had just one full run through with Daniel before the final performance, and I will give him his dues he did a great job in the circumstances.
So lets jump to the end of the evening now. The point where we got our feedback. Now Cat is always pretty straight talking. You know she will be fair when she assesses your work. What came next was a shock to me, our teacher said that she liked my characterisation of the role, and that it was a generally good performance from me. As ever I was faulted on my articulation, but this has always been a flaw of mine, I speak too fast, and unless I concentrate I forget about this in performance. The point is however I got a generally positive set of notes from the performance.
So I must be happy right? Not at all. I couldn't disagree more with my teacher! I felt my characterisation was poor, as was my movement, and well... everything was poor. I am actually embarrassed by that performance, good feedback or otherwise! Some people say I am too harsh on myself. But me, I disagree, I set my bar higher than others, and if i don't reach it, I have failed. Too many people take comfort in being part of the crowd, but you never get noticed as an individual unless you step out of that crowd and make a statement! And I want to make that statement!
So what next? Well I put a bad performance behind me, close the door on this blog and move on! Only next time I will be much better. I guess we all have our off days, and this was definitely one of mine!!!
G xxx
Sunday, 21 March 2010
Our Countrys Good... Or Is It?
So I am coming to the end of yet another course and yet another play. As I said last time I updated there are some exciting things in the pipeline but I want to get this over and done with first before I waffle on out all the new stuff! Trust me its worth the wait, unlike the predictable so called cliff hangers you get at the end of Eastenders. The amount I slag that show off in these blogs, you'd have thought they'd have sued me by now!
So this Tuesday we finally perform "Our Countrys Good", I have to be honest as I said previously there has been something about this course and play that I haven't enjoyed. I think as a group we all perform well with the exception of a couple of people, and I don't mean that negatively... but there is always someone you see and think, what the hell are they here for? Its wrong to mention names, but theres one lady that springs to mind from our group. She never shows enthusiasm, or commitment... but worse still she doesn't even get into character... ever. But something is still missing. even if you ignore what I have just said.. but its too late to change that now! I just have to bite the bullet and get on with it!
So the performance on Tuesday, I have the part of "Sideway" a criminal who has a passion to act. For those who don't know the play, in short it is about convicts who have been outcast to Australia putting on a play with the help of a kind hearted soldier. The play is of course littered with tragedy and twists, but it is somewhat dated. Anyway my role... Sideway...He is a little strange to say the least. Suppose that explains why I was casted in the role. Having rehearsed our piece time and time again, I think we have ironed out most of the imperfections that we had a couple of weeks back.
From a personal perspective I have found it hard to be Sideway. I have had a great deal of difficulty converting my ideas and images of him in my mind into acting. Until now this hasn't been a hurdle that I have had problems clearing. Normally I relish the chance to uncover a characters personality.I actually think its my lack of enthusiasm for the group and play that has left me feeling this way, maybe that combined with my future plans has put this little performance into perspective... I don't know.
But whatever happens I really need to snap out of this feeling to insure that come Tuesday evening I deliver the goods. My Aunt uttered some important words the other week... give every performance your all as you never know who may be watching... Well I guess I will be doing that! Tune in next week to find out how it all went!
G xxx
So this Tuesday we finally perform "Our Countrys Good", I have to be honest as I said previously there has been something about this course and play that I haven't enjoyed. I think as a group we all perform well with the exception of a couple of people, and I don't mean that negatively... but there is always someone you see and think, what the hell are they here for? Its wrong to mention names, but theres one lady that springs to mind from our group. She never shows enthusiasm, or commitment... but worse still she doesn't even get into character... ever. But something is still missing. even if you ignore what I have just said.. but its too late to change that now! I just have to bite the bullet and get on with it!
So the performance on Tuesday, I have the part of "Sideway" a criminal who has a passion to act. For those who don't know the play, in short it is about convicts who have been outcast to Australia putting on a play with the help of a kind hearted soldier. The play is of course littered with tragedy and twists, but it is somewhat dated. Anyway my role... Sideway...He is a little strange to say the least. Suppose that explains why I was casted in the role. Having rehearsed our piece time and time again, I think we have ironed out most of the imperfections that we had a couple of weeks back.
From a personal perspective I have found it hard to be Sideway. I have had a great deal of difficulty converting my ideas and images of him in my mind into acting. Until now this hasn't been a hurdle that I have had problems clearing. Normally I relish the chance to uncover a characters personality.I actually think its my lack of enthusiasm for the group and play that has left me feeling this way, maybe that combined with my future plans has put this little performance into perspective... I don't know.
But whatever happens I really need to snap out of this feeling to insure that come Tuesday evening I deliver the goods. My Aunt uttered some important words the other week... give every performance your all as you never know who may be watching... Well I guess I will be doing that! Tune in next week to find out how it all went!
G xxx
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