The American teenage musical lands on the London scene for the very first time in this revival production, hitting the road all the way from Birmingham and parking at The Other Palace this spring. Guillermo Nazara chats with the performer, to learn all the fun facts about her reprisal of this role – whose relatable journey promises to drive new young guests into the theatre.
How does it feel to be starring in the London revival of such a stirring piece of musical theatre?
It’s such a privilege – and it feels surreal, exciting, and daunting. A bit of a dream come true to be honest, and I can’t wait to get in the room with everyone.
What enticed you to play this character?
Who wouldn’t want to play Samantha Brown? It’s an amazing role, and I’ve loved the score since I first heard it in college. It’s so evocative and powerful and offers such incredible opportunities for acting through song. It’s just a dream role for someone at my career stage.
The show deals with the complexities of both high school and family relationships. What makes this one different in comparison to other pieces dealing with similar topics?
The thing that really sets The Mad Ones apart is how intimate and relatable it is. It’s a show that really trusts its audience to form their own opinions on the characters. There’s no ‘good guys’ or ‘bad guys’ – just real, fallible people trying to make decisions when things get really tough.
The intimacy of it means it works brilliantly in smaller venues, allowing for direct addressing between the characters (particularly Sam) and the audience. A lot of the other high-school musicals are big theatrical pieces (I love those too!), but this brings something different to the table.
Are there other themes explored through this narrative?
Grief, self-discovery, and different types of love. Although in some ways those all impact Sam’s relationships.
Tell us more about your role. Has this revival given you the opportunity to redefine your character in any way?
Absolutely. Sam is a complex character in an emotionally challenging situation having to make the most important decision of her life to date. I’ve had almost a year to think about her, and I’m so excited to come back with a fresh perspective. I also think I’ve developed as a performer in that time, so I hope to bring more nuance and depth to the role.
What particular challenges have you found in this role?
It’s not an easy sing! So, vocal stamina is something I’ve been working on. And inevitably, it’s emotionally demanding, but I love having the opportunity to take on these challenges as a performer.
Why do you think it’s important to bring teenage stories to the stage – and especially, musicals?
I think it’s important to bring relatable stories to the stage. And, as everyone is, has been, or will be a teenager, it’s easy for the majority of us to relate to those kinds of stories. Also, (along with affordable tickets), it helps attract younger audiences into the theatre.
Is there any message you’re trying to convey both through the show and your performance in particular?
Yes! The message is “it’s okay if you don’t know what you want to do”!
I feel like there’s too much pressure on teenagers to decide what and who they want to be, while doing really well in exams. The reality is people change over time, so you can change direction at any point.
Why come see The Mad Ones?
It’s a great piece of writing, the songs are just gorgeous, and I’m working with some really amazing people. Ticket prices are affordable, so come take a road trip with us!
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The Mad Ones will play at London’s The Other Palace from 7 May to 1 June. Tickets are available on the following link.