Hi Jacob!
Thank you for joining me in a Q&A You are currently staring in Cool Rider; it’s the second half of Greece with the new T- Birds and Pink Ladies Generation
A few questions
- What initially attracted you to your role in “Cool Rider,” and how did you prepare for it?
I don’t think my usual casting is very T-Bird-esque, but when this came through, I thought, ‘What a great chance to do something like that!’. I watched the film as I’d never seen it before (I know, sorry…!) and loved it!
2. How do you relate personally to your character, and what aspects of your character were the most challenging to portray?
I don’t think I relate to my character at all, haha! He’s pretty silly, meant to be super good-looking, and sings a song about patriotic sex! But that’s why it’s fun to play—it’s so not me.
3. Cool Rider” is based on “Grease 2,” which has a dedicated fan base. How do you feel this musical adaptation contributes to the original film’s legacy?
This is the 10th Anniversary concert of the original musical, and it’s not trying to be anything it’s not. For once, the audience is almost encouraged to sing along! It’s fun, camp and classic!
4. Can you share a memorable moment or a behind-the-scenes story from rehearsals or performances of “Cool Rider”?
We’re only two days in,, so it’s been heads down learning the material. But I had a feeling on day one: ‘It’s a shame we’re only doing this for one show; everyone’s already getting on great!’ It’s such a brilliant cast, and everyone is lovely. It also feels very special to have Maxwell Caulfield, the original Michael from the film, playing Mr Stuart!
5. What has been the most rewarding part of being involved in “Cool Rider,” and how has it impacted you as a performer?
It’s nice to play a role I probably wouldn’t play if it were a long-running version of the show. It’s not that I can’t do it; I just know that when a thousand people decide who gets one role, it very rarely goes your way!
6. Lastly, for fans of “Grease 2” and newcomers alike, what do you hope audiences take away from seeing “Cool Rider”?
I hope people leave feeling like they just saw the campest, funniest musical they ever did see!
Thank you so much, Jacob and I look forward to seeing you in Cool Rider
Theatre: The London Palladium
Dates: Sunday 14th April at 7 pm
Tickets: from £35
Premium Tickets include a Meet & Greet with Maxwell Caulfield, a tote bag and a souvenir programme
