Talawa Theatre Company brings the first UK production of the Duke Ellington jukebox musical, reimagining Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night through the specs of the 1940s underground culture. Guillermo Nazara chats with one of its lead actresses, to learn all the fun facts about performing in such funky piece of theatre – and all that jazz!
How does it feel to be starring in the UK premiere of this new jazz musical?
This show is a really special piece, and it is such an honour to be a part of the Play On! Company.
A newcomer to New York jazz scene determined to make a name for herself. Sounds like a journey every artist can feel identified with, don’t you think?
Absolutely. Every artist has an origin story and people go on various routes to get to their dream. It isn’t easy and requires a tenacity that everyone can relate to. It is being able to do anything in your power to achieve your goals, and eventually with time, you will succeed.
Do you find parallels between your character’s journey and your own?
Absolutely. Vy is passionate about music, about performers and about putting her best foot forward. Also, I believe she is always striving for joy! Who doesn’t want that?! My route into performing/writing, like Vy’s, wasn’t straightforward, and I have been fortunate enough to have a great career thus far. Vy doesn’t let anything or anyone get in the way of her dreams and that is something I admire and try to do every day.
What has the process of developing your role been like?
Rehearsals were incredible! Tapping into my masculine energy was in itself a process. Thanks to our wonderful, choreographer Kenrick, and director, Michael Buffong, I am now able to fleet gracefully between Viola (our heroine) and Vyman (her male alter-ego). I had to learn to speak like a man, walk like a man. I learn about how to take up space like a man. It was a thrilling process.
As a performer, what’s the key to encapsulate the essence of the jazz era the show depicts?
Joy and vulnerability.
Have you found any particular challenges in this piece?
The hardest part of this role for me is to find the balance between wanting to achieve my character’s dreams of being a songwriter, but also allow herself and others to love and all the beauty and difficulties it comes with. To allow the balance between work and life and relationships. It’s something we all strive for and I think that’s why audiences love this piece. It speaks to all our souls and tugs at our heart strings. You don’t want to miss it!
What do you think makes this show stand out in comparison to other jazz or historical musicals?
Well, it’s not simply jazz. Duke Ellington and his music are key elements of this play, but the creative team have really put a modern twist on what at heart is a classic tale of unrequited love. Plus the talent on stage – it really is a thrilling company to work with!
Why come see Play On!?
The intent of ‘Play On!’ is to bring joy. Seeing the audience reactions so far, I think we’ve definitely achieved that. We want to carry that feeling across the nation.
Production pictures credit to Ellie Kurtz.
Play On! is currently on tour across the UK until 22 February. Tickets are available on the following link.
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