Carley Stenson is currently playing Princess Fiona in Shrek The Musical at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. Previously Carley starred as Elle Woods in the West End production of Legally Blonde at the Savoy Theatre. She is well known for playing Steph Cunningham in Channel 4’s Hollyoaks for over ten years.
Carley’s other theatre credits include: Jill in Mother Goose (Palace, Newark), Sandy in Grease (Palace, Manchester), soloist in Summer Song (Bridgewater Hall), soloist in Remembering Diana (Her Majesty’s), Godspell (Globe, Blackpool), Princess Amneris in Aida (Opera House, Manchester), Dulcie in The Boy Friend (Wigan Youth Theatre) and Nancy in Oliver! (Neptune Theatre).
Carley chats to West End Frame about Shrek, Hollyoaks and when she started performing...
Are you enjoying your time in Shrek The Musical?
I am loving my time in Shrek! I'm surrounded by magic, fairytale creatures and I'm a Princess (laughs)! Everyone is so lovely and friendly. I love working in the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane as well, it’s a lovely theatre! I'm very happy.
Why do you think Shrek has been such a popular show?
Shrek is very popular with children through to adults. It's got something for everyone. The songs are beautiful and catchy and the ensemble are fantastic - there is nothing not to like! Obviously the movies are so popular and liked by all. It's a fun, exciting and heart warming show.
What are the cast like to work with?
The cast are a lovely bunch of friendly, talented people. They are a dream to work with.
Performing 8 shows a week must be so demanding! How do you look after yourself in-between performances?
I don't like being lazy and I love my food. But with performing eight shows a week you have to rest when you can and eat healthily to make sure you give your audience 110% every time. I make sure I eat plenty of fruit and veg, rest when I can and drink lots of water and honey.
You used to play Steph Cunningham in Hollyoaks, how does working in TV compare to theatre and which do you prefer?
Theatre is completely different to TV for me! I love the buzz of live theatre but miss the varying challenges of filming different scenes for everyday television. I miss my Hollyoaks family and learning new things every day, but nothing beats the adrenalin rush of being in a musical and taking that bow.
When did you first decide that you wanted to be an actor?
I have always wanted to perform - since I was two. When I was younger I was always singing, dancing and trying to make people laugh. I’ve never thought of anything else! To be an actor wasn't even a question.
What advice would you give to any aspiring actors?
My advice is to be versatile, driven, polite and interested in everyone you meet. You can always learn something new from someone. Want it more than the next person. Be prepared for knockbacks and always take constructive criticism well, learn from it to make you better.
Are there any other West End roles you would like to play?
I would love to create a new role!
What’s your favourite show in the West End at the moment?!
I loved Legally Blonde and can't wait see A Chorus Line at the Palladium!
Finally, what would you like to say to everyone who has supported you throughout your career?
I'm honoured and extremely grateful.
Follow Carley on Twitter: @carleystenson
Shrek The Musical runs at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane until 22nd February 2013. Click here to buy Tickets with West End Frame.
Keep up to date with the latest theatre news, reviews & interviews on Twitter: @West_End_Frame
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