Andrew Alexander is currently starring as Richard Hannay in The 39 Steps at the Criterion Theatre. Previously he co-wrote and starred in a new adaptation of Box and Cox at the Hen & Chickens Theatre. A few of Andrew's other theatre credits include: Nanki-Poo in The Hot Mikado (Watermill Theatre), Nigel in Salad Days (UK tour) and Prince Charming in Snow White (Sheffield Lyceum Theatre).
Andrew chats to West End Frame about leaving The 39 Steps later this month, life backstage at the Criterion Theatre and his future plans...
Have you enjoyed your time in The 39 Steps?
Yes, immensely. Richard Hannay is such a great role in a great show with a fantastic and friendly cast and production/backstage team. I'm a huge fan of the golden Hollywood era and icons like Errol Flynn, Cary Grant, Gregory Peck. Also I get to wear a dashing 3 piece Harris Tweed suit, sport a pipe, and save the world from the Nazis every night - what’s not to love?!
What will you miss most about the show when you leave?
Primarily the fun and enjoyment I've had doing the show. A large part of that is the cast - Catherine, Paul and Critch - and the fun we have together during our run. I’ll miss the audiences who bring spontaneity and make every show different. I’ll miss the gorgeous little 'armchair theatre' that is the Criterion. I’ll miss the role - I’ve been doing it for one and a half years. And I will miss seeing my face on The 39 Steps poster... only joking. (I'm not joking).
Why do you think The 39 Steps continues to be so popular with audiences?
In a world of CGI and lavish production values it is refreshing for people to go to the theatre and see four actors put on a show with just a handful of props and still feel engaged. Also I think audiences love going to the theatre and seeing things go wrong. They feel like they are in on the joke. And that is one of the key premises of this show.
What is life like behind the scenes at the Criterion Theatre?
It is great fun. We have a small tight family behind the scenes. Luckily there are no egos and everyone looks out for each other.
Have things ever gone wrong on stage?
Well a lot of things that go wrong are scripted of course but things sometimes do happen that aren't planned. We've had lamps falling over, tabs not coming back at the end scene (so I had to improvise and deliver the end monologue in completely the wrong place), chicken squawk noises happening when it should be a ‘gust of wind’ noise - but generally the audience don’t realise it’s a mistake because of the nature of the show.
What are the rest of the cast like to work with?
Delicious, funny, brilliant, a pleasure.
Performing 8 shows a week is very demanding. How do you keep your performance fresh each night?
I just remember it's the first time the character is in that situation. I remember the stakes to each moment. and that the audience are paying a lot of money to come and watch you! You owe it to them to keep it fresh.
When did you first decide that you wanted to be an actor?
At university when I decided I didn't really fancy growing up.
What roles have you got your eye on and would like to play in the future?
Anything I can get. Who wants to give me a job...?
Finally, what would you like to say to everyone who has supported you throughout your career?
Thank you!
Follow Andrew on Twitter: @andalexander
Click here to to buy top price seats for The 39 Steps reduced to only £29.50 (valid Monday to Friday performances until 31st March 2013).
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