Interview: Ross Hunter, currently starring as Drew in Rock Of Ages

Ross Hunter is currently playing Drew in the West End production of Rock Of Ages at the Shaftesbury Theatre. Ross's theatre credits include My Fair Lady Proms 2012 (Royal Albert Hall); Charlie And The Chocolate Factory (Workshop); Ensemble and understudy to Warner and UPS guy in Legally Blonde (Savoy Theatre) and Ensemble as well as understudying and playing the role of Galileo in We Will Rock You (Dominion Theatre). Ross chats to West End Frame about joining Rock Of Ages, life behind the scenes at the Shaftesbury Theatre and what West End roles he has his eye on...

You recently joined Rock Of Ages as Drew, how are you finding it so far? 

I'm loving the show at the minute. Rock classics, a kick ass band and a brilliant cast - what more could you ask for? It's so much fun to do and I'm really settling into the role of 'Drew'.

Why do you think Rock Of Ages is such a popular show? 

I think 'Rock Of Ages' is such a popular show due to its amazing fan base but also because of word of mouth. There is no way you can come away from watching this show without telling someone else about it. It's such a great night out, big laughs, and you will be up on your feet at the end guaranteed.

As Drew is such a vocally demanding role, how do you look after yourself in-between performances? 

Plenty of sleep and plenty of vocal rest. I don't really speak until 4.30pm most days. Your voice will wake up when your body has fully woken up and I believe a little light excercise also gets your body awake. This along with steaming normally sets me up for the show.

What is life like behind the scenes at the Shaftesbury Theatre? Is Rock Of Ages a fun show to be part of? 

Life behind the scenes is a little crazy. We have alot of fun on stage but also off. Manic costumes for the girls and lots of props to remember. The shaftesbury is a great space to work in and we have a great atmosphere in the building.

What are the rest of the cast like to work with? 

The cast are great. So welcoming when we joined and we love spending time together. Everyone is so supportive when covers go on etc and everyone pulls together if any last minute changes occur.

You previously understudied Galileo in We Will Rock You and Warner in Legally Blonde, how does it feel to now play a lead role full time? 

I loved covering both of those roles and it was a great experience for me as a performer. But it is great to have a part to call my own now, something to really settle down into and give my own interpretation of 'Drew'. Such a big role at such a young age and I am so grateful for this opportunity.

When did you first decide that you wanted to be an actor? 

I first decided I wanted to be an Actor at around 15-16. I always had a passion for music and being on stage. I come from quite a musical background playing guitar and other instruments from a young age so I was always interested. I did 2 years at college in the north east before doing 3 years training in musical theatre at Arts Ed.

What advice would you give to any aspiring actors? 

Work hard and you will get results. Work hard on perfecting yourself in all areas of performing - dance, acting and singing. Also perseverance is a big key as well. Take criticism on board and learn from your mistakes. Never give up!

What is your favourite show in the West End right now? 

Favourite west end show for me and has been for a long while is 'Jersey Boys'. So many amazing songs and the show is always in tip top shape. Very slick!

What roles have you got your eye on and would like to play in the future? 

In the future I would like to play 'Bob Gaudio' in Jersey Boys. Maybe 'Elder Price' in Book Of Mormon or even take a trip back to the Dominion one day to play 'Galileo'.

Finally, what would you like to say to everyone who has supported you throughout your career? 

I would like to say a massive thank you to all the support I get. Especially the people who have followed me through the past 3 years of shows. My family and close friends have also played a massive part in supporting me so big thanks to them too!

You can 'Follow' Ross on Twitter: @RossHunter1 

Click here to 'Like' Ross's fan-page on Facebook

Visit www.rockofagesmusical.co.uk to find out more about Rock Of Ages and to book tickets.



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