Sound Ideas cast members Emily Sidnell and Joseph Betts recently sat down with us ahead of their run of Gypsy at the Norwich Theatre Playhouse. The pair talked about their characters Dainty June and Herbie, the fabulous costumes, pre-show rituals and who they’d love to see play the ultimate stage mother, Rose.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got involved with Sound Ideas.
Emily: I went to watch their 2018 production of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, and saw that they were auditioning for Singin’ in the Rain. So, I auditioned and was lucky enough to be cast in the ensemble, as well as understudy for Kathy Seldon. I’ve since been involved in several of their productions, and I’ve loved every single one!
Joseph: After studying Drama and Theatre at school, I jumped straight into local theatre and have been lucky enough to perform with so many great companies over the years. I was there right at the beginning of Sound Ideas. It started out with just a handful of passionate performers performing small concerts, and then, with its first musical (the hysterical “Urinetown”), it was clear the company was going to make its mark.
Describe the show in three words.
Emily: Hilarious. Heartfelt. Emotional.
Joseph: Funny. Iconic. Bittersweet.
Did you know the musical before you started?
Emily: I knew of the musical, but I’d never had the opportunity to see it. It’s one of the best pieces of musical theatre; the emotion, humour, and grittiness are unmatched.
Joseph: I first saw the show when it was revived in London with Imelda Staunton. After that, I started looking for other versions and was amazed at just how many huge stars have performed in the show.
What surprised you the most about the show?
Emily: How funny it can be at times, but also how quickly that moment can turn into something deeper and more meaningful.
Joseph: I think it’s the feeling you get as the show goes on. There are so many laugh-out-loud moments, and then you start to feel this twinge. This feeling that there’s something far deeper and sadder at play.
What is your favourite song in the show?
Emily: My favourite song in the show is the moment we get to see the first performance of Dainty June and her Farm Boys. It’s June’s time to shine with the boys behind her, and it is a very funny and wacky moment in the show.
Joseph: Together, wherever we go.
Are you learning an American accent?
Emily: I’m doing my best – haha! June’s accent has a slight twang to it at times that makes it slightly different from a typical standard American accent. You’ll have to watch the show to see what I mean!
Joseph: I’m hopefully improving on the accent that was there before. We’ve all done so many shows, and many of them are American, that we’ve all grown accustomed to doing it.
You must get to wear some great costumes. What is your favourite?
Emily: All of June’s costumes are amazing, but my favourite is probably my red, white and blue dress that matches the outfit that the younger version of June wears.
Joseph: Well, that’s where Herbie pulls the short straw. He’s no performer and CERTAINLY no “exotic dancer”. I get some lovely suits, but the… “sparkles” I’ll leave to masters.
What has been your favourite moment in rehearsals?
Emily: Probably the rehearsal when we heard the amazing 16-piece orchestra for the first time! Goosebumps!
Joseph: It was really special the first time we sang “Together, wherever we go”. I get to sing this with Holly, who plays Rose, and Jess, who plays Louise. Not only are both women incredible performers, but they are also two dear friends of mine. It’s wonderful to share this with them.
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
Emily: Just make sure I’m nice and warm physically and vocally!
Joseph: I’m not sure why I do this, but I always like to just walk around the stage before the doors open. I love taking in the space and enjoying that moment of quiet before curtain up.
If Rose were to be played by anyone, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Emily: Anne Hathaway!
Joseph: The character of Rose has been played by so many massive stars on stage that it’s hard to think of someone. However, if there were to be a new film made, I think Meryl Streep would be a very good shout.
Gypsy is at Norwich Theatre Playhouse between 10 – 14 Sep. For more information or to book, visit norwichtheatre.org or call the Box Office on 01603 630 000.
