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Where are They Now?
Where are they Now May 2013
An update on who is doing what with whom and where.
THE WEST END IS ALIVE WITH THE SOUND OF THE NYMT!!
In the West End there are NYMTers currently working in The Adephi, The Cambridge, The Dominion, The Harold Pinter, Her Majesty’s, The London Palladium, The National Theatre, The Noel Coward, The Novello, The Palace, The Phoenix, The Piccadilly, The Prince of Wales, The Queen’s and The Victoria Apollo.
Soon to open at the Noel Coward Theatre, SHERIDAN SMITH (1993-1998) as Titania in Michael Grandage’s new production of A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM prior to JUDE LAW (1987-1990) playing HENRY V in December. CHARLES EDWARDS (1987-1999), currently excelling in THIS HOUSE at The National Theatre goes on to lead in STRANGE INTERLUDE also at The NT while, at The Almeida ,WILL KEEN (1987) is winning high praise in Richard Eyre’s production of GHOSTS. Also at The Almeida, ES DEVLIN (1997) who must be the country’s busiest designer, is currently doing AMERICAN PSYCHO and CHIMERICA, as well as X FACTOR, IT’S TIME TO FACE THE MUSICAL! at The London Palladium next year where ED CURRIE (2006) is currently leading the company of A CHORUS LINE.
At The Phoenix Theatre, DECLAN BENNETT (1997-8) is also leading the company of ONCE alongside FLORA SPENCER-LONGHURST (1999-2000) while fellow member of The Kissing Dance company, SIMON THOMAS (1995-1999) is heading the PHANTOM company at Her Majesty’s Theatre just around the corner from TAM MUTU (1996) who is playing Javert in LES MISERABLES alongside NICKY SWIFT (1994-6) and PHOEBE STREET (2008) and just across the road from The Harold Pinter Theatre, where AMY RICHARDSON (1995-7) is soon to open in Maria Friedman’s wonderful production of MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG. Not far away at The Prince of Wales, ASHLEY DAY (1998-2002) is having a ball in THE BOOK OF MORMON while the NYMT’s representative in The Strand is GLORIA ONITIRI (1998-2000) at The Adelphi, where she is sharing the leading role of Rachel Marran in THE BODYGUARD and TASHA TAYLOR-JOHNSON (1998-2000) is still with the company of MAMMA MIA at the Novello Theatre. GINA BECK – another from The Kissing Dance – has been nominated for an Olivier Award for her performance of Glinda in WICKED at The Victoria Apollo. Also nominated is JAMES BOURNE (1996-8) for his musical LOSERVILLE. OLIVER TOMPSETT (1998-9) is playing Galileo in WE WILL ROCK YOU at The Dominion and LUCY THATCHER (1997-8) is spicing up The Piccadilly in VIVA FOREVER! ANDREW WRIGHT’S (1988-1991) acclaimed choreography is still gracing SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN at The Palace as is PETER DARLING’s in MATILDA at The Cambridge, where LOTTIE WAKEHAM (2006) as Associate Director has not only been working on the current Broadway production but is also directing THE OTHER SCHOOL for the NYMT at The St James Theatre in August. (PETER is also currently rehearsing CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY for The London Palladium in May). Out on the road, STEWART CLARKE (2010-2012) is playing Sam on the GHOST UK Tour.
Recent film accolades have gone to JUDE LAW in SIDE EFFECTS. Soon to hit the screen is IDRIS ELBA (1990-91) playing the man himself in MANDELA, LONG WALK TO FREEDOM while EDDIE REDMAYNE (1999), MIKE JIBSON (1997-2000), MARC PICKERING (1996-1998), HUGH SKINNER (1998), KERRY ELLIS (1991), ADAM PEARCE (1999-2002), RICHARD DALTON (1996), ADEBAYO BOLAJI (1997-1999), JAMIE MUSCATO (2006), TERRY KEELEY (1999) STUART NEAL (1999-2002) GINA BECK, TOBY TURPIN (2012- ) and, of course, ISABEL ALLEN (NYMT Gala Concert 2012) must have established some kind of statistical record by all being in LES MISERABLES!! Look out for STEPHEN GRAHAM (1990-93) in the new SKY DRAMA series PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS having just made his US TV debut playing AL CAPONE on Sky Atlantic, and Stephen’s contemporary, JIM STURGESS’ (1993-4) new film, UPSIDE DOWN, is about to open, as is TOBY JONES (1981-3) in THE HUNGER GAMES. Toby was at school with - and was an NYMT member - at the same time as TOM HOLLANDER (1981-3) who has two films soon to open, ABOUT TIME and THE INVISIBLE WOMAN. Chart-topping JESSIE J (formerly Jessica Cornish - NYMT The Late Sleepers 2002) is currently to be seen as coach and mentor on BBC's THE VOICE and DAVID WITTS (2006-8) is scooping awards as Best Newcomer in a Soap – not to mention Sexiest Male - as Joe Branning in EASTENDERS.
Finally, many congratulations to EDWARD SNAPE who produced the NYMT’s celebrated production of BUGSY MALONE in the West End in 1997. His production company, FIERY ANGEL, has been nominated for no less than five Laurence Olivier Awards: Best New Play, Best Direction, Best Set Design, Best Sound Design and Best Actress. How wonderful to contemplate that, if he wins any of them, the award will be announced by SHERIDAN SMITH who played Talullah, aged sixteen, in that very production! How dramatic is that!!
And so it goes on……
Where are they Now December 2012
The NYMT presence out there in the real world appears to be getting bigger and more impressive as time goes on! As well as the usual domination of the stages and film-screens, what is hugely gratifying is to see a sudden growing surge of interest and success of NYMTers past and present on the writing and composing front:
SCRIPTS AND SCORES
American Justice, a new play about Barack Obama by RICHARD VERGETTE (The Little Rats 1988/9) opens at the Arts Theatre, 15 Jan 2013, following previews from 10 Jan, running to 9 Feb. JAMES BOURNE (Aurelius 1997, Bugsy Malone 1997/8) has his musical Loserville running until 5 Jan at The Garrick while ADAM MEGGIDO (Drake 1984) has co-composed music and lyrics for The Tailor-Made Man due to open on 13 Feb, also at the Arts Theatre. JJT is also scribbling again having been working recently in Sydney directing a workshop and writing the lyrics for a new music theatre piece, A Peculiar People – the extraordinary true story of a band of Australians who tried to found ‘The New Australia’ in Paraguay in the 1890s. Book and lyrics are by DAVID JENSEN (The Little Rats 1989). Most significant of all, of course, is the new commission for NYMT’s 2013 season, THE OTHER SCHOOL, with music and lyrics by Dougal Irvine and book co-written by Dougal Irvine and DOMINIC MARSH (Aesop 1991, The Ragged Child 1993, Whistle Down The Wind 1993).
ON STAGE
Meanwhile, up on stage it’s business as usual with fabulous reviews for SALLY HAWKINS (Pendragon 1994, Master Peter’s Puppet Show 1995) in Constellations at The Duke of York and, at The Wyndhams Theatre, WILL KEEN (The Ballad of Salomon Pavey 1987) is playing alongside Rowan Atkinson in Quartermaine’s Terms. At the National Theatre on the South Bank CHARLES EDWARDS (The Ragged Child 1986, Les Petits Rats 1988, The Caucasian Chalk Circle 1989) soon transfers from the Cottesloe to the Olivier in This House alongside GUNNAR CAUTHEREY (Whistle Down the Wind 1995) and, at the New London, RACHEL SANDERS (The Little Rats 1988) and Danny Dalton (Oliver! 1990) continue in Warhorse. Coming soon to the Donmar is Phillida Lloyd’s new production of the all-female Julius Caesar with CUSH JUMBO (Bugsy Malone 1997/8) playing Mark Anthony. Also opening in the spring SHERIDAN SMITH plays Titania for Michael Grandage in A Midsummer Night’s Dream at The Noel Coward Theatre, while already playing there is JOHN MARQUES (Pendragon 1994) in Privates On Parade. ASHLEY DAY (creation 1998, Oklahoma 2000) is in The Book of Mormon at The Prince of Wales Theatre; STEWART CLARKE (Sweeney Todd 2010/11, Songs for a New World 2012) continues playing the lead, Eddie in Loserville. TOM CHAMBERS (October’s Children 1990, Pendragon 1995) is soon to finish a two-year stint playing the lead in Top Hat at The Aldwych, where DAN JACKSON (NYMT Musical Director 1997-2000) continues as MD. Also about to finish is NIGEL HARMAN (October’s Children 1990) in Chorus of Disapproval at the Pinter Theatre. LUCY THATCHER (The Wizard of Oz 1997, Into The Woods 1998) fresh from her triumph as Julie Jordan in JO DAVIES’s highly successful production of Carousel for ENO North and DARREN CARNALL (Bugsy Malone 1997) have recently opened in Viva Forever at The Piccadilly Theatre and GLORIA ONITIRI (Pendragon 1998, The Dreaming 2000) is in the company and playing the lead for some performances of The Bodyguard at the Adelphi Theatre. OLIVER TOMPSETT (The Wizard of Oz 1997, creation 1999) is playing Galileo in We Will Rock You at the Dominion and NICKY SWIFT (Whistle Down the Wind 1994, Warchild 1997) maintains the NYMT presence in Les Misérables at The Queen’s. NEIL McDERMOTT (Aurelius 1996, The Kissing Dance 1998) continues as Lord Farquad in Shrek at Drury Lane. GINA BECK (Warchild 1997, The Kissing-Dance 1998, Pendragon 2000) is still casting magic spells as Glinda in Wicked at The Apollo Victoria and TASHA TAYLOR JOHNSON (The Dreaming 1999) continues in Mama Mia at The Novello. SIMON THOMAS (Oliver! 1995, Bugsy Malone BBC Radio 1995, The Kissing-Dance 1998, The Dreaming 2000) has recently taken over as Raoul in The Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty’s Theatre and KATIE HALL (The Dreaming 2006, Fiddler On The Roof 2007) leads the UK tour of the show as Christine. For the first time in years, ADAM PEARCE (Pendragon 1998, OKLAHOMA 2000) has not actually been on a stage anywhere because he’s been busy getting married to Anita Markham!!! Congratulations, Adam!!! Congratulations are also due to KATIE BEARD (Choreography The Dreaming 2006) on her recent marriage to Joe Stilgoe. AVA BRENNAN (Oklahoma! 2003/4) is currently playing Nala in The Lion King The Lyceum and, for the first time in years, ADAM PEARCE (Pendragon 1998, OKLAHOMA 2000) has not actually been on a stage anywhere because he’s been busy getting married to Anita Markham!!!
THE BIG SCREEN
On the big screen ADEBAYO BOLAJI (Aurelius 1996, Bugsy Malone 1997, The Wizard of Oz 1998) is one of the bad guys in Skyfall and DAVID OYEWOLO (The Threepenny Opera 1997) has his name above the title in Tom Cruise’s latest blockbuster, Jack Reacher. SHERIDAN SMITH (Pendragon 1994, Tin Pan Ali 1995, Bugsy Malone 1996, The Kissing-Dance 1998) is adding to her amazing list of achievements a role in Dustin Hoffman’s new film, Quartet. Les Misérables is dominated by NYMT alumni – including new dad (congratulations!) MIKE JIBSON (Tin Pan Ali 1996, Bugsy Malone 1997, The Kissing-Dance 1998), EDDIE REDMAYNE (The Ballad of Salomon Pavey 1999), ADAM PEARCE (Pendragon 1998, OKLAHOMA 2000) and mention could be made of an honorary NYMTer as a result of her contribution towards NYMT in Concert with Matt Lucas and Friends of Poster Girl ISABELLE ALLEN who plays Young Cosette. The film also features MARC PICKERING (1996-2002), GINA BECK (1997-2000), KATIE HALL (2006-7), KERRY ELLIS (1990), JAMIE MUSCATO (2006-7) and TOBY TURPIN (13 The Musical 2012).
TELEVISION
Over Christmas the amazing and ever-busy TOBY JONES (The Leaving of Liverpool 1981, Tin Pan Ali 1983) added Alfred Hitchcock to his list of astonishing character roles in The Girl on BBC 1 and JULIAN OVENDEN (Saint Francis 1993) sang Sondheim/Bernstein as brilliantly as ever on John Wilson on Broadway on ITV while JONNY LEE MILLER (The Ragged Child 1986, The Roman Invasion of Ramsbottom 1987, Les Petits Rats 1988, The Caucasian Chalk Circle 1989) added his contribution to the current list of Sherlock Holmes interpretations on Sky. DAVID WITTS (The Dreaming 2006, Whistle Down The Wind 2008), recently voted Sexiest Male at the Inside Soap Awards, continues to attract a young following as Joey Branning in Eastenders on BBC 1.
CREATIVE AND TECHNICAL
On the technical/creative fronts, ES DEVLIN (The Wizard of Oz 1997) follows her work on designing the Olympic Closing Ceremony with designs for Chemerica soon to open at The Almeida, and FRANCIS O’CONNOR (Noye’s Fludde 1992) maintains his NYMT link with his designs for Loserville. NICK RICHINGS (Warchild 1998) has designed the lighting for Scrooge at The London Palladium and GARETH FRY (Bugsy Malone 1996) is designing the sound for Hansel and Gretel at The National Theatre. ANDREW WRIGHT (Joseph 1989, Oliver! 1990, Billy 1991) continues to wow with his brilliant choreography for Singing in The Rain at The Palace and, also on the choreography front, whilst Matilda still rules the West End at The Cambridge, PETER DARLING (The Ballad of Salomon Pavey 1976) soon starts to work his magic on Charlie and The Chocolate Factory at the London Palladium. Coming soon will be Nikolai Foster’s production of Kiss of The Spider Woman at Arts Ed, choreographed by DREW McONIE (The Wizard of Oz 1998) and under the musical direction of TOM DEERING (Goblin Market 2003) – the same creative team that will produce West Side Story for NYMT at Victoria Warehouse in Manchester this summer.
THE CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Finally, thanks so much to all those current NYMTers – too many to mention – for their fine work and to the generosity of alumni, JASPER BRITTON (The Ballad of Salomon Pavey 1976), AKIYA HENRY (Annie 1995, The Kissing Dance 1998, Into The Woods 1999), JONNY McGOVERN (The Ragged Child 1999, Oklahoma 2001), JUDE LAW (Bodywork 1987, The Ragged Child 1988, Les Petits Rats 1988, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat 1989, The Caucasian Chalk Circle 1989, Captain Stirrick 1990), AMY NUTTALL (Whistle Down the Wind 1995, Aurelius 1996), CHIKÉ OKONKWO (Into The Woods 1999, The Dreaming 2002), CHARLOTTE RITCHIE (The Dreaming 2006) and DOMINIC TIGHE (Whistle Down the Wind 1995, Orvin 1999, Oklahoma 2001, The Dreaming 2002) for their invaluable contribution to the hugely successful, first ever (and certainly not the last) NYMT Christmas Concert at The Actors’ Church, Covent Garden.
An unsolicited email from a new NYMT parent following the Christmas Concert:
‘Wow wow and wow again! Thank you so much for the beautiful concert last night. As an attendee at many Christmas Concerts yours was, by a very long way, the best ever. It wasn’t only the talent so obviously on show but how the concert had been put together. It was a perfect balance of humour, extraordinary music, wonderful singing and general Christmas spirit. I really hope it’s the first of many.
Thank you so much for a truly spectacular start to Christmas.’
Keep the good news coming in!
JJT Dec 2012
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR ALUMNI....
NYMT Alumni gather 2012 Olivier Awards
Best Performance in a Supporting Role - SHERIDAN SMITH - Flarepath
Best Actor - JONNY LEE MILLER (with Benedict Cumberbatch) - Frankenstein
Best Theatre Choroegrapher - PETER DARLING - Matilda
Best Performance in a Supporting Role in a Musical - NIGEL HARMAN - Shrek
2012 Olivier Awards nominations
Best Performance in a Supporting Role
Sheridan Smith for Flare Path at the Theatre Royal, Haymarket
Best Actor
Jonny Lee Miller for Frankenstein at the NT Olivier
Jude Law for Anna Christie at the Donmar Warehouse
Best Performance in a Supporting Role in a Musical
Nigel Harman for Shrek the Musical at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane
Best Theatre Choreography
Peter Darling for Matilda the Musical at the Cambridge
Andrew Wright for Singin’ In The Rain at the Palace
WhatsOnStage.com Awards 2012
Nigel Harman - Best Supporting Actor in a Musical [Shrek, Theatre Royal Drury Lane]
Kerry Ellis - The Jo Hutchison International Award for Best Solo Performance [Anthems, Royal Albert Hall]
Peter Darling - Best Choreographer [Matilda, Cambridge Theatre]
Golden Globe Awards 2012
Idris Elba - Best Actor in a Min-Series or Tv Movie [Luther]
Critics' Circle Theatre Awards
Sheridan Smith - Best Actress [Flarepath, Theatre Royal Haymarket]
Eddie Redmayne - Best Shakespearean Performance [Richard II, Donmar]
The Evening Standard Theatre Awards
Jonny Lee Miller - Best Acto [Frankenstein, National Theatre]
Sheridan Smith - Best Actress [Flare Path, Theatre Royal Haymarket]
Where are they Now September 2012
Anyone who saw THE WIZARD OF OZ at The Johnson Hall, Yeovil, or The Theatre Royal, Bath, in the summer of 1997 could look back now and realise what a good deal they got for their £12.00 ticket because the cast and artistic team are alive and kicking big time with director JO DAVIES and choreographer KAY SHEPHERD winning high praise for their production of CAROUSEL for ENO North at the Barbican, in which GILLENE HERBERT (Tree in OZ, later The Baker’s Wife in Into The Woods) is playing Janie Jordan, the leading lady. The production transfers to Paris next month. GAVIN SPOKES (The Tin Man in Oz, later in The Beggar’s Opera) is currently playing Nicely Nicely Johnson in RUSSELL LABEY’S production of Guys and Dolls at the Cadogan Hall; JAMIE BELL (Munchkin in Oz, later in Tin Pan Ali, Bugsy Malone and The Ragged Child)) has a new film, MAN ON A LEDGE, about to be released, as has fellow Munchkin, MARC PICKERING (later in Tin Pan Ali and Bugsy Malone) who is in the new film version of LES MISERABLES. Yet another Munchkin, DREW McONIE, has just choreographed 13 for the NYMT! ADEBAYO BOLAJI (Crow in Oz, later in Bugsy Malone, Aurelius) is in GHOSTS and AMY NUTTALL (Glinda in Oz, later in Aurelius), having just finished in NOISES OFF at The Old Vic, is now to be seen in the new DOWNTON ABBEY. SEAN PARKINS (Uncle Henry in Oz, later in Bugsy Malone) is at the Apollo Victoria in WICKED (alongside GINA BECK who is playing Glinda) and Wizard of Oz designer ES DEVLIN designed the forthcoming BATMAN LIVE as well as the OLYMPIC GAMES CLOSING CEREMONY! Not a bad twelve quid’s worth!!
How good to see ZOE BIRKETT (creation 1999) on a West-End stage in THRILLER and NEIL McDERMOTT (Aurelius, 1996, THE Kissing-Dance, 1998) in SHREK in which he took over Lord Farquaad from NIGEL HARMAN (October’s Children*, 1991) * recently resurrected as NATASHA which was a great success at this year’s International Youth Arts Festival in Kingston. Also in October’s Chilrden in 1990 was TOM CHAMBERS (later Pellinore in Pendragon and Not Quite Bedtime) who is leading the West-End company in Top Hat at The Aldwych. ADAM PEARCE ( the next Pellinore in Pendragon, 2000; Oklahoma, 2002) was, until it closed last Saturday, the first voice you'd hear each night at the Adelphi, commanding the audience to ‘Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd!’ NICKY SEARLE (Drake, 1984) is still strutting his stuff in MATILDA, choreographed by PETER DARLING (Salomon Pavey, 1977) who is soon to choreograph the new production of CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY at The London Palladium. Reigning equally supreme in the choreography stakes at the moment is ANDREW WRIGHT (Joseph, 1989, Billy, 1990 and Oliver!, 1991) whose current work on both SINGIN' IN THE RAIN and WONDERFUL TOWN with TIFFANY GRAVES (Poppy, 1993; Annie, 1995) and CONNIE FISHER, (Pendragon 1999) sees him in great demand.
It’s quite a leap from Tallulah in Bugsy Malone (Queen’s Theatre, 1997) to the title role in HEDDA GABLER at The Old Vic for SHERIDAN SMITH this year. As if that and MRS BIGGS isn’t enough, she then continues in Michael Grandage's new production of A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM in a season at The Noel Coward Theatre starting in December, which also includes JUDE LAW, (Bodywork, 1987; The Ragged Child, 1988; Les Petits Rats, 1988; Joseph, 1989; Caucasian Chalk Circle; 1989, Captain Stirrick; 1990) playing the King in Shakespeare’s HENRY V. Jude’s new films, 360 and ANNA KARENINA are fresh to the screen. Also in the film world, BEN BARNES (Salomon Pavey, 1998; The Ragged Child, 1999; The Dreaming, 2002) has just finished shooting Seventh Son in Vancouver, starring alongside Jeff Bridges. On TV recently was a remarkable performance in the BBC’s Accused series by STEPHEN GRAHAM (Captain Stirrick, 1990; The Ragged Child, 1992) is winning huge respect as a most versatile actor. CBBC viewers will no doubt recognise the voice of TOBY DAVIES (The Dreaming, 2012) who has just started recording 26 episodes no less of CHUGGINGTON for the BBC. Another new kid on the TV block whose satire THE REVOLUTION WILL BE TELEVISED was a huge hit on BBC3 last week, is JOLYON RUBINSTEIN, (Whistle Down The Wind, 1994). While KATIE BEARD, (recently engaged to Joe Stilgoe – many congratulations!) and JJT have just been directing a workshop production of MOMMA MIA in Dublin, TASHA TAYLOR JOHNSON (The Dreaming, 2001) and WARREN SOLLARS (Tin Pan Ali, Bugsy Malone 1996-8) are performing in the real thing in London.
In LES MISERABLES on stage, TAM MUTU plays Jean Valjean and PHOEBE STREET (Whistle Down The Wind, 2007; All Above Board 2008) has joined the ensemble and as 1st cover Cosette. THE PHANTOM tour features JAMES BISP (The Dreaming, 2002), RICHARD (Woodie) WOODFORD (Poppy, 1993) and, of course, KATIE HALL (The Dreaming, 2006; Fiddler on the Roof, 2007) as Christine.
In soap world, DAVID WITTS (The Dreaming 2006; Whistle Down The Wind 2008; All Above Board 2008) is now appearing as Joey in EASTENDERS and has just won the Inside Soap Award for Sexiest Male in a Soap whilst BENNY GUR (Whistle Down the Wind 2008; Totally Over You, 2009) plays Gus Hancock in WATERLOO ROAD.
Finally, great good luck to NEIL RUTHERFORD (The Ragged Child,1986; Bodywork,1987; Les Petits Rats,1988; Captain Stirrick,1990; The Caucasian Chalk Circle,1991; Not Quite Bedtime,1998) who has finished his time as Head of Casting for ATG and has moved to Sydney to work at the Opera House. Neil’s new book, Musical Theatre Auditions and Casting: A performer's guide viewed from both sides of the audition table (Methuen Drama) is highly recommended to all!
LATEST:
Congratulations to STEWART CLARKE (Sweeney Todd, 2010/11; Songs for a New World, 2012) on his upcoming role as Eddie in LOSERVILLE by JAMES BOURNE (Aurelius,1997; Bugsy Malone,1997/8) at The Garrick Theatre from October.
Where are they Now May 2012
The awards keep rolling in with SHERIDAN SMITH (1995-200) adding the OLIVIER AWARD to her list of achievements for her performance in FLAREPATH, as did JONNY LEE MILLER (1986-89) for FRANKENSTEIN, as did PETER DARLING (1977) for his choreography on MATILDA. In the current cast of Matilda is NICKY SEARLE (1984-5) while on the other side of the proscenium LOTTIE WAKEHAM (2006) is Associate Director. LOTTIE’S production of ALLEGRO for the London School of Musical Theatre was recently seen at THE BRIDEWELL. NIGEL HARMAN (1991) also won an OLIVIER for his performance as Lord Farquaar in SHREK, in which he has just been replaced by NIEL McDERMOTT (1996-2000)!
Another major production for Opera North opened in May with JO DAVIES (1986-89) following her triumphant production of RUDDIGORE with a new look at CAROUSEL, which starts in Leeds before coming to The Barbican in the summer. Playing the lead is GILLENE HERBERT (1995-6,) and the choreography is by KAY SHEPHERD (1989 onwards).
There’s masses of fine work going on away from London. In Manchester, it’s not only the BBC that’s moving in, the NYMT is doing the same with CONNIE FISHER (1998-9) who has won fantastic reviews in Bernstein’s WONDERFUL TOWN AT The Lowry Centre, while KATIE HALL (2005-7) is doing the same at the other end of town in The Opera House as Christine in the 25th anniversary production of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA and AIDEN CRAWFORD (2007) appeared in STREET OF DREAMS (The Coronation Street musical) arena tour earlier in May.
Also on the road at the moment is DOMINC TIGHE (1995-2000) playing the male lead in BAREFOOT IN THE PARK opposite Maureen Lipman before he comes back to London soon to play the role of Terence Rattigan in the much-lauded production of THE ART OF CONCEALMENT at The Riverside Studios. Dominic also kindly found time to come to The Vaudeville Theatre in April to sing at the NYMT’s fabulous 35th anniversary Gala Concert brilliantly hosted by MATT LUCAS (1987) as did GINA BECK (1998-200) now playing Glinda in WICKED, LARA PULVER (1995-7) who joined us on a day off from Uncle Vanya at Chichester, MIKE JIBSON (1996-2000) who is currently filming LES MISÉRABLES alongside ADAM PEARCE (1999-2003) – who didn’t have to move too far to The Vaudeville from his dressing room next door at the Adelphi, where he currently sings ‘Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd’ eight times a week in SWEENEY TODD! IAN VIRGO (1998-9) was there too, as was STUART MATTHEW PRICE (1996-8) - recently in SHREK at Drury Lane - AMY NUTTALL (1995-8) taking time off from filming the next Downton Abbey saga, and CHIKÉ OKONKWO (1999-2002). It was also wonderful to see DAVID NIELD (NYMT Chairman, 1978–99), STEVE PERRITT (NYMT General Manager 1980-1988) and ROSEMARY GROGAN (Chaperone Supremo since 1990 and still going) in the audience. It was a really great evening!
Keeping the NYMT flag waving in the West End are DARREN CARNALL (1997/8) in GHOSTS and OLIVER TOMPSETT (1998), CORDELIA FARNWORTH (2004-7) and JAMIE MUSCATO (2006-7) in ROCK OF AGES. ANDREW WRIGHT (1989 -91) is winning rave reviews for his choreography for SINGING IN THE RAIN and TOM CHAMBERS (1991-96) is being brilliant as Fred Astaire in TOP HAT – also featuring ALYN HAWKE (2007) - at The Aldwych. CHARLES EDWARDS (1986-8), winner of the WHAT’S ON STAGE AWARD is playing the King in THE KING’S SPEECH at The Wyndhams Theatre opposite JONATHAN HYDE as the speech therapist, Lionel Logue who played The Earl of Oxford in the ATV production of THE BALLAD OF SALOMON PAVEY In 1977!!!
Finally, in WARHORSE, DANNY DALTON (1990-91) and RACHEL SANDERS (1998-9) keep the NYMT link with The National Theatre alive at the New London Theatre.
Coming up – JAMIE PARKER (1997-1999) plays Henry V at The Globe. NICKY SPENCE (1999) is singing in BILLY BUDD for the ENO at The London Coliseum. MARK QUARTLEY (1998-2002) recently appeared in WRITTEN ON THE HEART with the RSC at The Duchess Theatre. SAM ARCHER (1995-7) appears at The Gielgud in CHARIOTS OF FIRE in June with SAVANNAH STEVENSON (1997-9) and ANTONIA BERNATH (1999) also in the cast. OLIVER PENGELLY (1998-2000) is currently working with Stage Coach in Wimbledon. HANNAH SPEARRITT (1996-8) is in the new cast of ONE MAN, TWO GOV’NERS at The Haymarket and JOHN MARQUES (1998) is to be in the new production of RAGTIME in regent’s Park in the summer. DOM HODSON (2006-8) appears in THE SOUND OF MUSIC at Kilworth House in August/September.
Where are they Now? November 2011
MATILDA hits London like a bombshell!
The RSC production of MATILDA, directed by Matthew Warchus has opened at THE CAMBRIDGE THEATRE where, if justice is done, it should remain for the next hundred years! It is a wonderful production largely due to the extraordinary vision of its composer Tim Minchin, and the visionary choreographic skills of PETER DARLING (NYMT, 1977). The cast includes three astonishing teams of 9-12 year olds as well as an ever-young NICKY SEARLE (NYMT, 1984), still dancing up a storm. Associate Director is LOTTIE WAKEHAM (NYMT 2006).
Soon to come to The Palace Theatre hot from Chichester is SINGING IN THE RAIN for which ANDREW WRIGHT (NYMT 1997-90) has won high praise for his choreography, while another distinguished director/choreographer, CAROLE TODD (NYMT 1984) currently has two shows in London, DREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS at The Playhouse and SANTA CLAUS AND THE CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE at The Ambassadors. How good to hear that DREW McONIE (NYMT 1998-99) is ‘coming home’ to choreograph 13 for the NYMT next summer along with multi-instrumentalist, composer and conductor TORQUIL MUNRO (NYMT 1987-93) as musical director. Another composer, GRANT OLDING (NYMT 2002) has scored a huge hit with his music for the massive hit ONE MAN TWO GUV’NORS soon to transfer from The National to The Adelphi and director RUSSELL LABEY (NYMT 1985-2000) has just finished his production of THIRD FLOOR at The Trafalgar Studios. Another about to finish after a huge run as Felicia /Adam in PRISCILLA at The Palace Theatre is OLIVER THORNTON (NYMT 1996-98) and, of course, MATT LUCAS (NYMT 1987) has just finished his stint in LES MISERABLES at The Queens.
Many congratulations to CHARLES EDWARDS (NYMT 1987-90) who has landed the lead in the new stage version of THE KING’S SPEECH. Also to TOM CHAMBERS (NYMT 1990-97) playing Fred Astaire in TOP HAT to high critical acclaim on tour at the moment and which comes into London in the new year. Also currently on stage, or about to come on-stage in the West End, OLIVER TOMPSETT (NYMT 1999-2000) is storming it in ROCK OF AGES alongside JAMIE MUSCATO (NYMT 2004) and CORDELIA FARNWORTH (NYMT 1999-2000) at the Shaftesbury Theatre. In SHREK at Drury Lane, NIGEL HARMAN, (NYMT 1992) is hilarious as Lord Farquaad; also in the cast are DELROY ATKINSON (NYMT 1998) and STUART MATTHEW PRICE (NYMT 1996-98). AMY NUTALL, (NYMT 1994-96) not content with currently stealing the screen in DOWNTON ABBEY, comes to The Old Vic in NOISES OFF while GINA BECK, (NYMT 1998-200) moves from LES MISERABLES to play Glinda in WICKED at The Victoria Apollo. Gina's contemporary, AKIYA HENRY (NYMT 1995-2000) moves into the Vaudeville Theatre from The Bristol Old Vic with the much-acclaimed SWALLOWS AND AMAZONS playing the wonderfully named role of Titty Walker! CARL AU (NYMT 2000), fresh out of Arts Ed, plays Joe Pesci in JERSEY BOYS at The Prince Edward, and just round the corner, ADEBAYO BOLAJI (NYMT 1997-2000) and DARREN CARNALL (NYMT 1996-97) are in GHOST, THE MUSICAL at The Piccadilly; Following SHERIDAN SMITH (NYMT 1994-98) at The Savoy, ELLIE KIRK (NYMT 1998-1999) is playing Margot in LEGALLY BLONDE and WARREN SOLLARS (NYMT 1996-98) is currently playing Pepper in MAMMA MIA at The Prince of Wales. ANYA RODFORD (NYMT 2002) has just enjoyed great success in KISSES ON A POSTCARD directed by Jeremy James Taylor at The Queen’s Theatre, Barnstaple.
JIM STURGESS (NYMT 1994-95) continues to roll out top class performances in top class films. Playing the lead opposite Anne Hathaway, ONE DAY is well up there. Judging by the reviews the same can be said of JAMIE BELL (NYMT 1995-97) playing the title role in Stephen Sondheim’s THE ADVENTURES OF TIN TIN. Busier than ever, EDDIE REDMAYNE (NYMT 1998), whose latest film, MY WEEK WITH MARILYN, opens soon, is about to give his RICHARD II at The Donmar Warehouse directed by Michael Grandage and, back in the opera house, JO DAVIES (NYMT 1986-96) has come up with a huge winner with her production for ENO North of RUDDIGORE, which comes from Leeds via Newcastle and Salford touring dates to The Barbican. Don’t miss it.
On television, a welcome return of REV to BBC2 with TOM HOLLANDER (NYMT 1981-83) up to his usual standard, SUE PERKINS (NYMT 1984-85) is currently doing Channel 4's breakfast show RI:SE. and on radio ADAM PARSONS (NYMT 1980) is frequently heard presenting on BBC Radio Five Live.
Finally, for making the short-list for the EVENING STANDARD AWARDS 2011, congratulations are due to JUDE LAW (NYMT 1987-90) for his performance in ANNA CHRISTIE at The Donmar, SHERIDAN SMITH again for a remarkable performance in FLAREPATH at The Haymarket, JONNY LEE MILLER (NYMT 1986-89) for FRANKENSTEIN at The National Theatre and CHARLES EDWARDS for his hilarious Benedick in MUCH ADO at Shakespeare’s Globe.
Where are they Now? May 2011
As ever, the theatre, TV and film-worlds continue to feature the work of past members of the National Youth Music Theatre.
Few have been busier than MATT LUCAS (1987, The Roman Invasion of Ramsbottom) who has featured in all three categories since. Following his double-appearance as both Tweedledum and Tweedledee in Tim Burton’s ALICE IN WONDERLAND, he has also recently had a major TV Series, COME FLY WITH ME, and is soon to open as Thenardier in LES MISERABLES in the West End. Matt has also recently become a Patron of the International Youth Arts Festival in Kingston, as has SHERIDAN SMITH (1995-99, Pendragon, Bugsy Malone, Tin Pan Ali, The Kissing-Dance) who has dominated the London stage for the past 15 months with her magnificent Olivier-Award winning performance in LEGALLY BLONDE and her current, critically acclaimed role in FLAREPATH at the Theatre Royal, Haymarket directed by Trevor Nunn. There are strong rumours that she next will be playing the lead in the new stage production of BRIDGET JONES.
Keeping the NYMT flag flying in LEGALLY BLONDE is SIMON THOMAS (1994 – 2000, Oliver!, The Ragged Child, The Kissing-Dance, The Dreaming) playing Warner following his excellent performance as the Prince in INTO THE WOODS in Regent’s Park last summer, while another playing a lead for TREVOR NUNN has been BEN BARNES (1997-2002, The Ballad of Salomon Pavey, Bugsy Malone, The Ragged Child, The Dreaming) in BIRDSONG at the Comedy Theatre. Ben’s latest film, KILLING BONO, has enjoyed popular acclaim. JAMIE BELL (1996-8, The Wizard of Oz, Tin Pan Ali, Bugsy Malone), is also enjoying current film success in THE EAGLE). Next in the Trevor Nunn/NYMT continuing link is JAMIE PARKER (1997-9, The Beggar’s Opera, Into The Woods) who is playing Guildenstern in the new production of ROSENCRANTZ AND GUILDENSTERN ARE DEAD at The Haymarket. Hot off the press is the casting of MIKE JIBSON (1995-2000, Tin Pan Ali, Bugsy Malone, The Kissing Dance) in Stephen Sondheim’s new musical ROAD SHOW, which has its European Premiere at the Menier Chocolate Factory in June.
On screen, look out for TOM HOLLANDER (1981-2, The Leaving of Liverpool, Captain Stirrick) in the highly-praised new film, LEAH. Tom has also just completed a long run at The Old Vic in A FLEA IN HER EAR under the direction of Richard Eyre. TIM McMULLEN (1980, Tin Pan Ali) was also in the cast and goes on to play Simyanov Pischick at The National Theatre. FRANCESCA JACKSON (1997-8, Bugsy Malone) is at The Duchess Theatre in MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET; ADAM PEARCE (1999-2000, Pendragon, Oklahoma) plays Squelch in LOVE NEVER DIES at the Adelphi alongside SIMON GREEN (1994, Bugsy Malone), OLIVER THORNTON (1996-7, The Beggar’s Opera, Aurelius) continues his hilarious leading role in PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT, DANIELLE COOMBE (1988-9, Drake, Oliver!)and CHARLOTTE RIBY (1994, Whistle Down the Wind, creation, Tin Pan Ali, Warchild) is playing Diva at The Palace while ADIBAYO BOLAJI and DARREN CARNALL (1996-8, Bugsy Malone, Tin Pan Ali)are in the cast of GHOST at The Piccadilly. JONNY LEE MILLER (1986-9, Bodywork, The Ragged Child, The Caucasian Chalk Circle, Les Petits Rats) is sharing the roles of FRANKENSTEIN (1996-9, Bugsy Malone, creation, Aurelius, Tin Pan Ali) and THE CREATURE with Benedict Cumberbatch at The National Theatre, where PHILIP CUMBUS (1996, Bugsy Malone, Tin Pan Ali)is also currently in One Man, Two Gunners directed by Nick Hytner. DOMINIC MARSH is in THE UMBRELLAS OF CHERBOURG with the Knee High company at the Gielgud. TOM SUTCLIFFE (1996, Warchild) and SEAN PARKINS (1997-8,Bugsy Malone) continue in WICKED at The Apollo Victoria and CHARLES EDWARDS (1986 -9, The Ragged Child, Les Petits Rats, the Caucasian Chalk Circle) following a recent stint at The National, joins the 2011 company at Shakespeare’s Globe to play Benedict in MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING. At Drury Lane, soon to open in SHREK as Lord Farqhaal, is NIGEL HARMAN (1991, October’s Children) alongside DELROY ATKINSON (1995, The Threepenny Opera) and STUART PRICE (1995-6, Bugsy Malone, Tin Pan Ali) while MICHAEL PICKERING (2004, Oklahoma) following a tremendous performance as Athos in The Four Musketeers at The Rose last Christmas, is now in GREASE playing DOODY in the West End. JUDE LAW (1987-1990, Bodywork, The Ragged Child, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, The Caucasian Chalk Circle, Captain Stirrick, The Tailor of Gloucester) returns to the Donmar company to play Matt Burke in ANNA CHRISTIE. Jude also became a patron of NYMT in August 2010, joining TOM CHAMBERS, who has landed the plum role of Fred Astaire in TOP HAT.
The choreography world is currently represented by PETER DARLING, (1977, The Ballad of Salomon Pavey) whose work on BILLY ELLIOT continues to make the show one of the top draws in London and CAROLE TODD, (1984, Drake) is doing the same for DREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS at the London Playhouse Theatre and on tour. From that same production in 1984 SUSAN PERKINS is never off the TV; the same goes for KONNIE HUQ (1990, Captain Stirrick). Watch out for AMY NUTTALL (1996-8, Whistle Down The Wind, Aurelius) who is soon to appear in the new series of Downton Abbey. MARK QUARTLEY (1998-2003, The Ragged Child, Oklahoma) is currently on the road playing the lkead in PRIVATE PEACEFUL and ADAM KNIGHT (1995-6, Pendragon, Warchild)has recently become Director of Productions at The Belfast Opera House. LOTTIE WAKEHAM (2004, The Kissing Dance) has recently directed THE KISSING DANCE to great acclaim at The Jermyn Street Theatre with a cast that included GINA BECK (1998-2000, Warchild, Pendragon, The Kissing Dance) and IAN VIRGO (1998-2000, The Kissing-Dance).
Where are they Now? December 2009
The steam-roller which is embodied by the fantastic heritage of wonderful performers, technicians, directors, designers etc etc which has come down through the work of the NYMT over the past 30 plus years, marches confidently on. Just look at this list!!!
SALLY HAWKINS (1993-5) follows up her Golden Globe award for HAPPY GO LUCKY with another fine performance in AN EDUCATION which opened to excellent reviews in October. LAURENCE DOBIESZ (1995-7) is in the West End in the RSC's wonderful TWELFTH NIGHT. KATE PRINCE (2001) is about to open her production of THE BOYS IN THE HOOD at the Queen Elizabeth Hall. SIMON THOMAS (1994-200) has just landed the plum role as TARZAN in Disney's new film while BEN BARNES (1997-2004) has just completed his second stint as PRINCE CASPIAN, also for Disney and is currently filming in Ireland. JUDE LAW (1987 -90) continues to work as hard as anyone with his HAMLET just having wowed New York, a new HENRY V coming up in London, a major role in THE LIFE OF SHERLOCK HOLMES and the new face on the Dior Homme Sport commercial campaign. JAMES STURGESS (1993-5) has had a busy year filming THE WAY BACK with director Peter Wier, HEARTLESS directed by Philip Ridley and enjoying his success in 50 DEAD MEN WALKING. EDDIE REDMAYNE (1998) is never off the cinema screen with GLORIOUS 39 currently opening and BLACK DEATH in the pipeline.On stage he is in the new production of RED at The Donmar Warehouse. CHIKE OKONKWO (1998 - 2004) is enjoying great success in the BBC's new seris, PARADOX, and, if you see the current PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, get a double hit with GINA BECK (1996- 2000) as Christine and REBECCA LOCK (1993-7) as Carlotta. Another West End leading lady in the form of KERRY ELLIS (1990) currently sharing NANCY in OLIVER with Jodie Prenger.. Along the road in the record-breaking BLOOD BROTHERS is another 'double' in the form of STEPHEN PALFREYMAN (1990 -91) and LOUISE CLAYTON (1995-8) now husband and wife in real life! With the NATIONAL THEATRE are JASPER BRITTEN (1976 -7) in THE POWER OF YES IN THE Lyttleton, EAMONN O'DWYER (1995) in WARHORSE at The New London as is RACHEL SANDERS (1989-90) while GURPREET SINGH (1999-2000) is in NATION in The Olivier (1995) SHERIDAN SMITH (1994-2000) opens any minute in LEGALLY BLONDE at The Savoy in which she is stunningly brilliant as is DARREN CARNALL (1996-7)and OLIVER THORNTON (1996-8) continues to wow them playing opposite Jason Donovan in PRISCILLA, QUEEN OF THE DESERT at The London Palladium. With him in the cast are ZOE BIRKETT (1997-9) and DANIELLE COOMBE (1984-6). OLIVER TOMPSETT (1997-8) continues leading the cast of WICKED Outside the West End, if you can possibly catch THE HOT MIKADO on tour at the moment, do, DOMINIC TIGHE (1994 -2003) is one of a fantastic cast of actor/singer/dancer/musicians who do huge credit to the world of music theatre CHARLES EDWARDS (1988 - 1990) continues his extensive work for Sir Peter Hall in the new production of A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM coming to The Rose Theatre in Kingston where, later in the year there are plans for a new production of THE REVENGER'S TRAGEDY to be co-directed by JO BILLINGTON and FRANK WHATELY and a new production of THE BALLAD OF SALOMON PAVEY by JEREMY JAMES TAYLOR. KATIE BEARD has just directed Richard Taylor's WHISTLE DOWN THE WIND at the Electric Theatre in Guildford. MIKE JIBSON (1995-2000) is off to Manchester to play DROMIO in a new production of THE COMEDY OF ERRORS and JULIAN OVENDON (1993) is being a big hit playing opposite Jane Horrocks in ANNE GET YOUR GUN at The Young Vic with JOHN MARQUEZ (1996-7) also in the cast.
Where are they Now? April 2008
NEWS OF NYMT ALUMNI The success stories go on and on..
It is difficult to see a film these days which doesn't include at least one past member of the National Youth Music Theatre in the cast - indeed, in the recent SWEENEY TODD directed by Tim Burton there were no less than three - all playing leading roles - namely ED SAUNDERS (2005-6) playing TOBIAS, LAURA MICHELLE-KELLY (1996-8) playing LUCY and JAMIE BOWER (2002-3) playing ANTHONY HOPE. JIM STURGESS (1993-5) has been busy over the past couple of years playing the lead opposite Kevin Spacey in 21. He is executed in dramatic style in THE OTHER BOLEYN GIRL (playing opposite Scarlett Johansen) and, last year, played the lead in Julie Traymor's fine film ACROSS THE UNIVERSE. BEN BARNES (1996-2001) is soon to be seen by the world as PRINCE CASPIAN in the first of the NARNIA trilogy and busiest of the lot is SALLY HAWKINS ( 1994 - 7) currently hailed in her latest film (of many) Mike Leigh's triumph, HAPPY GO LUCKY, for which she won Best Actress award at the Berlin Film Festival. Released on 16th April. (The film also includes a delightful cameo from ELLIOT COWAN (1993-5) (Sally was also in VERA DRAKE and ALL OR NOTHING for Mike Leigh). She has also just finished filming CASSANDRA'S DREAM with Woody Allen. MIKE JIBSON, (1995-200) is appearing in THE BANK JOB and next appears in feature film RED MIST before playing PUCK at Shakespeare's Globe.
More in the theatre include. KAT PERRET, (2004-5), MELISSA GORDON (2004 -5) and DAVID WITTS (2004 -5) all of whom are in the new production of THE RAGGED CHILD at the ROSE THEATRE in Kingston. SHERIDAN SMITH (1994 -2000) currently playing Vanessa in 'Tinderbox' at the Bush Theatre which opens on 23 April 2008.
is in between appearances on GAVIN AND STACEY. GLORIA ONITIRI (1999- 2003) has returned to a leading role in THE LION KING, and LAURA MICHELLE-KELLY is currently in AMERICAN BUFFALO and SPEED THE PLOW at The Old Vic playing opposite KEVIN SPACEY following her appearances in LORD OF THE RINGS and PARADE.
Other news: KONNIE HUQ (1990) recently left BLUE PETER as the longest running presenter. She carried the Olympic torch through London on Sunday 6th April. KATY HALL (2005 -8) survived the first cut in I'D DO ANYTHING. FRANCESCA JACKSON (1996 - 8) -in the final 9 Nancy's on BBC TV1's I'd Do Anything' to become Nancy in 'Oliver' She recently played Joanne opposite Denise van Outen in the West End production of 'Rent'. TARA WILLIAMS (1996-8) Made it to the final 10 on BBC1's I'd Do Anything to become Nancy in 'Oliver' HANNAH SPEARITT (1995-8) recently appeared in the 2nd series of PRIMEVAL on ITV1. MATT LUCAS (1987) is currently filming LITTLE BRITAIN in the States and DOMINIC TIGHE (1993-2002) is enjoying international success with the singing group BLAKE.
And on they go .. and on. SALLY HAWKINS - Best Actor Award Berlin Film Festival 2008 As Poppy in Mike Leigh film 'Happy Go Lucky' general release from 16 April 2008. EMMA MANTON - Chichester Festival production now in Toronto of 'Nicholas Nickleby'. She was in the Ricky Gervais award winning series 'The Office'. TOM HOLLANDER - Currently filming 'The Soloist' with Robert Downey Jr and Jamie Foxx Directed by Joe Wright. LOUISE CLAYTON - Currently playing Linda in 'Blood Brothers' at the Phoenix Theatre. STEPHEN PALFREMAN - Currently playing Mickey in 'Blood Brothers' at the Phoenix Theatre. Jasper Britton - Currently playing the Lead in 'Fram' at the National Theatre. JOHNNY LEE MILLER - In US drama series playing the title role 'Eli Stone'. He also ran the London Marathon on Sunday 13 April 2008. JUDE LAW - Currently filming 'The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus' with Johnny Depp, Colin Farrell, Christopher Plummer and the late Heath Ledger. JAMIE BELL - has just finished filming 'Defiance' with Daniel Craig, Liev Schreiber. Has just been seen in the sci-fi thriller 'Jumper' with Hayden Christensen and Samuel L Jackson that was released in February 2008. CONNIE FISHER - Has been filming the ITV drama 'Caught in a Trap' to air in October. TOM CHAMBERS - Has being playing Sam Strachan in 'Holby City' since 2006. AMY NUTTALL - Currently starring as Sally Bowles in the West End production of 'Cabaret'. KERRY ELLIS - Currently playing Elphaba in the West End production of 'Wicked' having also played the role of Glinda. TIFFANY GRAVES - Played Velma Kelly in 'Chicago' and recently was in the UK tour of 'Godspell'. DOMINIC TIGHE - Has been nominated for the Sunday Times and National Theatre award for outstanding performances by actors aged under 30 in a classical role for his performance as the Tailor and the Widow in 'The Taming of the Shrew'. Blake have been nominated for the NS & I 'Album of the Year' Classical Brit Awards 2008. These will be announced on 8th May at the Royal Albert Hall. Blake are releasing their debut album in Japan this spring and then will be touring the UK this summer with Katherine Jenkins.
Blake's 2nd album will be released at the end of the summer.
Folks - we’ve got them surrounded!!! Keep sending in information about any ex NYMTers you know of who are still doing their stuff. We’d love to hear from you.
Where are they Now? May 2007
At the moment, every auditorium at the National has an ex NYMTer at work. Tom Hollander (1981-1983) is playing the lead in Joe Penhall’s new play, Landscape with Weapon at The Cottesloe while Gareth Fry (1996) has designed the sound for Attempts On Her Life and Danny Nutt (1989–1993) is in Philistines (both in the Lyttleton), and meanwhile Chike Okonkwo (1998-2003) is in A Matter Of Life And Death in the Olivier. Will Keane (1987) is in Kiss Of The Spider Woman at the Donmar. Connie Fisher (1999-2001) along with Neil McDermott (1996-2000) is keeping the Palladium full with The Sound Of Music. Congratulations to James Bisp (2001-2003) who has just been cast as ‘Asher’ in the new production of Joseph And The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat and high praise to Mark Pickering (1995–1999) for his stunning performance in the title role of The Elephant Man at The Trafalgar Studios. Susan Salmon (1989) is at The Almeida Theatre in Big White Fog. Kerry Ellis (1990) and Oliver Tomsett (1998) are beyond the rainbow at The Victoria Apollo in Wicked. Choreographer Peter Darling (1977), is keeping Greg Bradley (1994), Stuart Neal (1998-2002), Nicky Searle (1984), Darren Carnall (1997) and Laura Michelle –Kelly (1996) on their toes in Lord Of The Rings at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, while Laura Michelle-Kelly has been spending daytimes at Pinewood as Lucy filming Sweeney Todd (with Johnny Depp) in which Jamie Bower (2000) and Eddie Saunders (2006) are both featuring as ‘Anthony Hope’ and ‘Tobias’. Amy Nuttal (1994-1997) is currently in Boeing Boeing at The Comedy Theatre. Gloria Onitiri (1999-2003) is still resident on Avenue Q at the Noel Coward and Rae Baker (1988-1991) is in Dirty Dancing at The Aldwych. Soon to open at the Royal Opera House (Linbury Studio) is Into The Woods with Lara Pulver (1993–1995) and Nic Greensheilds (1992-1995) in the cast. Sean Selby (1996) is in Fame at The Shaftesbury Theatre and Chris Lennon (1990-1991) is still in Billy Elliot at The Victoria Palace, (choreographed by Peter Darling). Emma Cunniffe (1988-1990) has enjoyed huge success in The Entertainer at The Old Vic. Gina Beck (1998-2000) continues as ‘Cosette’ in Les Misérables at The Queen’s and Sheridan Smith (1994-2000) is wowing audiences as ‘Audrey’ in Little Shop Of Horrors at The Duke of York’s. Toby Jones (1981-1983) mustn’t be missed in the new film The Painted Veil and Stephen Graham (1990-1993) leads a wonderful cast in The Face Of Britain. Jude Law (1986–1990) has just seen his new film Blueberry Nights open at Cannes and Sleuth is due out later this year. On the small screen, Tom Chambers (1995-1997) continues as ‘Sam Strachan’ in Holby City and Michael Jibson (1995-2000) has just landed a major role in the new Maltby & Shire musical, Take Flight due at The Chocolate Factory later in the year.
Folks - we’ve got them surrounded!!! Keep sending in information about any ex NYMTers you know of who are still doing their stuff. We’d love to hear from you.