Natalie Andreou is currently starring as Sherrie in the West End production of Rock Of Ages which recently moved to the the Garrick Theatre. Since training at the London Studio Centre, Natalie's theatre credits include: Footloose (UK tour), Rigoletto (English National Opera), Bridget Jones The Musical - Workshop (London), Mamma Mia! (Prince of Wales), Evita (UK tour), Fame (European tour), Jack & The Beanstalk (Mercury Theatre, Colchester) and The Jazz Dance Company (UK tour).
Her film and television credits include: Mamma Mia The Movie (Starplay Productions Ltd), Sophie in Mamma Mia on Over The Rainbow (BBC) and She’s Amazing (Sky One).
Natalie chats to West End Frame about starring in Rock Of Ages, the show's recent move to the Garrick Theatre and what the cast get up to behind the scenes...
You have been playing Sherrie in Rock Of Ages for some time now. Are you still enjoying it?
Oh, I love it! I will not do anything if it doesn’t make me happy, so yes, still very much enjoying being on ‘the strip’! We've just had a theatre move to the Garrick which has refreshed the experience for everyone. Just the smallest thing like a different trip to work, a change in environment and a new dressing room can make all the difference when you’re doing the same show every day.
Why do you think Rock Of Ages is so popular with audiences?
It goes without saying that a show filled with hit after hit of classic 80s rock songs is going to ignite a level of passion in even the most conservative British audience. Aside from that, it's hilarious! I think the constant breaking of the ‘fourth wall’ when we get the audience involved is something quite different to other shows in the West End. You really feel a part of the show.
What is life like behind the scenes at the Garrick Theatre? Is Rock Of Ages a fun show to be part of?
Ridiculous. But that's West End theatre land. We all get on pretty well and make an effort to arrange social events whether that be bowling or fine dining. The outside world would probably think we were a bunch of weirdos if they listened in to some conversations, we talk absolute nonsense 87% of the time. I also think our
Christmas quiz night was seriously one of the best quizzes I've ever been to. Otherwise, I think I laugh till it hurts pretty much every day.
What are the rest of the cast like to work with?
They are genuinely a fantastic, talented group of people. So many different characters and personalities, there’s always someone you can go to depending on how you’re feeling that day. I suppose we’re quite a small company in comparison to other shows so we have become very close.
Performing 8 shows a week is very demanding. How do you keep your performance fresh each night?
I'm a bit of a perfectionist, and I do still get quite nervous sometimes. The thought of falling over, sneezing, forgetting the words... more than enough to keep me on my toes! Also, every night is different. There may be an understudy on, someone twists an ankle, an audience member gets a bit rowdy; there's always something dramatic unfolding to keep things interesting.
Apart from Rock Of Ages, what is your favourite show in the West End right now?
I think it’d have to be Matilda! I saw it in the summer last year and was blown away by the performances. Roald Dahl was my favourite author growing up and its fabulous to see his work come to life on stage.
What roles have you got your eye on and would like to play in the future?
You know what, I'm not sure. We’ll have to see what comes about!
Finally, what would you like to say to everyone who has supported you throughout your career?
Thank you so much ROAdies... you ROCK ;)
Follow Natalie on Twitter: @natalie_andreou
Special Offer: Top price seats to see Rock Of Ages reduced to £39.50! (Offer valid Monday to Thursday performances, plus Friday matinees until 20th April 2013. While stocks last. Click here to book!
Rock Of Ages is nominated in our latest West End Frame Award - Best Jukebox Musical! Voting closes Monday 25th February! Click here to vote.
No comments:
Post a Comment