Jodie Prenger chats exclusively to UK Tickets
I'd Do Anything winner Jodie Prenger has received outstanding reviews as Nancy in Cameron Macintosh's spectacular new production of Oliver! at Drury Lane. Here, she gives UK Tickets an exclusive insight into her new found fame (and taste in dogs). |
 | What is it like behind the scenes of such a big West End musical? Can you describe a typical day at Oliver!? It’s great with such a good family; by that I mean the cast, the stage crew, the sound guys, the wiggies, people who work in costume and all who work at Drury Lane. It’s a big thing to put on such a big show. The cast gather at around 6.10 for a physical warm up, then for their vocal warm up, then notes. Then off we pop to get our wigs, make up and costumes on. And then, ladies and gentlemen, it’s showtime! | |
| Do you feel nervous before going on stage? You do, of course, because you always want to be at your best. But I have to say my nerves are soon settled as the first scene is with the kids, and you just fall in love with each of them. We have such a good time on stage, you forget your nerves. | ||
| It must be very demanding performing a leading West End role for six performances a week. How do you cope physically? I tell you all that Oom-Pah-Pahing does a treat for your fitness. In fact, they should bring an Oliver! fitness DVD out, it’s that good. | ||
| How do you prevent yourself from catching coughs and colds? I can always hear my nan’s voice when I get asked questions like that. My nan always told me to wear a vest, but I have to say the vest look doesn’t become me somewhat so I stick to taking my vitamins and my big woolly scarf. | ||
| Do you ever get bored with the repetition of dialogue in the show or singing the same songs every night? How do you keep it fresh and fun for yourself? The show is different every night. That’s what I adore about live theatre, you find new things in each scene and with a show like Oliver!, there is just so much going on. We have already had people come to watch the show three times and say they see something different in each scene. I always say Oliver! is more of a spectacle; you just can’t take your eyes off it. | ||
| Who are your favourite pop singers or bands? I love my Bette Midler and Liza, but I do like a bit of Pussycat Dolls and Michael Bublé. | ||
| Who did you idolise when growing up? My parents. | ||
| What is it like working with Rowan Atkinson? How has it been working with the rest of the cast? Rowan is a true gentleman and a total pleasure to work with. Such a talented man, it’s an honour to work with him. And so are the rest of the cast, such a fabulous bunch of people. I always say, when people come to see a show they don’t just see a show, they are watching a West End family at work, and they are such a fantastic family to be part of. As the legend Lionel Bart says, ‘Consider yourself part of the family.’ |  | |
| What would be your dream role in the future? My dream role would be in Gypsy, the mother. I know I’ll have to wait about forty years but it’s worth the wait. | ||
| Chihuahuas or spaniels– which is your favourite breed? Doesn’t matter what breed of dog they are, you just can’t help but love them. I have four dogs at home myself, two little Yorkies and two Lhasa Apsos. | ||
| By the way, did you find your earring? (The earring in question was the one you lost on the night of the first preview you explained to Donna & Lindsay from UK Tickets in the Nell of Old Drury pub across the roadfrom the theatre.) That night went by in such a whirlwind, you know! I don’t remember if I did, but I made sure I didn’t lose the ones on the press night. Boodles on Bond Street loaned me the most stunning diamond earrings; I made sure I paid special attention not to lose them! | ||
The Theatre Royal Drury Lane's critically acclaimed production of Oliver! is currently booking until February 2010 and you can get your tickets here. | ||
