Following his twice nightly flights as Peter Pan last year, Samuel Bailey has returned to New Theatre Royal Portsmouth for his second festive season on our stage. This year he takes on the role of Ivanov – the Mouse Kings right hand mouse.
How are you getting on in rehearsals?
Really good, I’m loving it. There’s lots to do, in a different way to Peter Pan last year, with lots of different characters to play, and little bits to learn here and there. It’s challenging, adapting to the different parts. And I’m loving being with the cast.
Tell us a bit more about your characters?
Ivanov is, I think, a little in love with the Mouse King. He’s been one of his sidekicks for a while. He’s also a bit of an idiot! I reckon Mouse King likes him, he often answers Ivanov first. Ivanov doesn’t usually know what’s happening, but he goes along with the plan. He wants to be the second in command, but has that competition with Petipa, which he actually loves. It’s quite brother and sisterly, if she wasn’t there I think he’d really miss her. He lives for that competition. He also loves food, a lot!
What are your first memories of Christmas shows?
It would have been panto in Southend, Snow White. Really magical. Even though they’re not necessarily Christmassy those stories, you always associate fairy tales and the like with Christmas. They’re magical, and that puts you in a Christmassy mood.
What can audiences expect from this production of The Nutcracker?
Expect a Christmassy story, it’s rare that it’s actually set at Christmas and it’s not a panto. It’s a really magical musical this year, with plenty of imagination, different lands and characters. It’s a real family show, with something for everyone.
What’s it like being back at NTRP, with a new show and a different cast?
I loved it last year, I couldn’t wait to come back. I really love the location. Given any chance to perform in that theatre again, it would be silly not to come back. The audiences are really warm. I met an Australian family in Starbucks after a show who were massive fans of Peter Pan, and I had my photo taken with them. That kind of thing is lovely.
If you could choose anything for Drosselmeyer to create for you, what would it be?
A Christmas ornament, made of glass, that lights up when you want it to, lights up and plays Christmas songs, sung beautifully. That would be nice.
Sam plays Ivanov in The Nutcraqcker – A Christmas Musical Spectacular from 13 – 31 December 2019 at New theatre Royal Portsmouth. Click here for more information and to book.