Ellie chats with Olivia Moore who is currently starring in the West End production of Grease.
How did you feel ahead of opening?
Naturally, I did feel nervous as you never know how audiences are going to respond, but the excitement was high. I felt so proud of what we had achieved and couldn’t wait to share it with audience members.
Were you excited to return to the role of Sandy for this new run of Grease?
Absolutely! This was the first time I had returned to a part so it was nice to know what to expect. I had such a wonderful time playing Sandy last year that I definitely couldn’t wait to get back!
I went into this run wanting to dig deeper and find more layers within Sandy, especially her relationship with Danny.
Do you think your interpretation of the character is different in this run in comparison to last year?
I wouldn’t say it is different but having new cast members is exciting as it’s an opportunity to explore different dynamics and interpretations. I’ve been very fortunate to work with such insanely talented people last year and again this year!
What would you say is your favourite moment of the musical?
Summer Nights is definitely up there. It’s such a fun number to do especially being surrounded by all my girls! You’re The One That I Want is also a moment that makes me feel really empowered and proud to be a woman!
You have already starred in some incredible productions, being in the original West End casts of both Heathers and Waitress, covering some iconic roles. How have you found leading a cast as a principal role in comparison?
I definitely have a lot more space in my brain – that’s for sure! I absolutely loved being an understudy, especially in Waitress as the parts I covered were so polar opposite. I constantly found myself playing around and experimenting whenever I went on.
Playing Sandy every night has different demands and responsibilities. There are more vocal demands with this role, which means I look after my voice and body even more than I did before. I definitely do still have a life (haha) but I’m more mindful of the fact that my priority is the show.
What would you say has been a career highlight so far?
I definitely have a few but I think going on as Dawn in Waitress with the Queen herself, Sara Bareilles, will definitely be firmly held at the top.
Grease is such a classic favourite musical. How would you say this story has been adapted for modern audiences for this run?
As iconic as Grease is, we felt it was incredibly important for our show to reflect the world we live in right now. We felt it was imperative to encourage inclusivity within our production with a diverse cast, female empowerment and same-sex couples.
Grease is an iconic musical, but it’s important to challenge traditions and stereotypes.
Do you have any dream roles or shows you would like to be a part of in the future?
I know this is not the answer people are wanting, but I don’t actually have any dream roles. There are definitely roles I would like to play – like Miss Honey in Matilda but I have never really been one to have a list that I want to tick off. I do however have a list of venues that would be a dream to perform at. Olivier Theatre at the National, The Old Vic, Chichester Festival Theatre and Regents Park Open Air are all venues that I would absolutely love to work at one day. All these venues have held a performance/performances that have completely inspired me.
If you could give Sandy a piece of advice, what would you tell her?
Don’t apologise for being who you are. Be proud of the character and qualities that make you, YOU.
Do you have any advice for young people wanting to start a career in theatre?
Stay true to who you are and work very hard. This industry celebrates individuality, however in a very competitive environment, it can be very easy to compare and adapt to be what you think people want. Be the best version of yourself not a clone of someone else. Also be kind, respectful and supportive of your peers. There can never be too much kindness.
And finally, why should audiences buy a ticket to Grease?
Because it’s such an excitingly vibrant show with brilliant music that is guaranteed to make you want to get up and dance!
Grease is on at the Dominion Theatre until the 28th of October – into and tickets here!
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