Interview with Robbie Boyle
At the time of the interview, Robbie Boyle was playing the role of Huey Phillips and covering the lead roles of Michael and Eddie in the new musical Loserville at the Garrick Theatre.
Having made his professional debut in Loserville at the West Yorkshire Playhouse, and his West End debut this month, Robbie performed the lead role of Michael on Saturday 20th October 2012.
Earlier this week Robbie took time out to answer some questions about himself and Loserville.
You trained at Arts Educational Schools. What were the highlights of your training?
Arts Ed gave me three exciting years and the most intense professional training I could have asked for. From day one introducing yourself to everyone in the school to the final day graduating it was full of enthusiasm and energy. However, personal highlights were receiving a phone call from Marvin Hamlisch before our opening night of Sweet Smell Of Success, having previously met him three weeks earlier, and of course playing Carmen in The Producers.
Was there anyone in particular who inspired you to want a career in the performing arts?
I’ll always remember going to watch Chicago at Manchester Opera House when I was 14 and thinking how cool they all looked on stage and wanting to be a part of that. From that moment on I was inspired by the Broadway cast of Spring Awakening after seeing it. Now, the people who make me want to strive for perfection are Brian D’arcy James and Gavin Creel.
You made your professional debut in Loserville. What can you tell us about the audition process?
I went through four rounds of auditions. I was sent to read for the role of Eddie, the lead jock. I was asked back to dance. The 3rd round I had to dash from my 3rd year showcase to the Dance Attic where I met James Bourne and Martin Lowe under the impression it was the last audition and I could then relax with the rest of my year after a hectic day. However they asked to see me the next morning and I was there for 6 hours. I read, danced and sung and walked away thinking I didn’t do enough. But I got a very nice call the next day with the good news.
You play the part of Huey Phillips. What can you tell us about Huey and how he fits into the storyline?
Huey is one of the jocks and one of Eddies sidekicks. He comes up with the plan that could help Eddie beat Michael in the race to crack communication between computers. He is the most immature of the bully’s and without Eddie he would be bullied.
Last Saturday you played the lead role of Michael. Can you tell us about that experience?
I got the call early in the morning that I would be going on as Michael. Obviously I was excited, but apprehensive as we hadn’t had any official cover rehearsals. But after going over the tricky corners of the show in a last minute rehearsal I seemed to feel very calm. and the amazing cast, crew and creatives guided me through. However it was one of the most exciting experiences I’ve had on a stage to date and a dream to lead a cast at the start of my career.
How would you describe Loserville?
Loserville is a tongue in cheek story, telling the story of the first email being sent. With this comes ridiculously catchy music, inspiring choreography and tons of energy. It’s a thrilling night out that will put a smile on your face. It’s British and fresh, along with a young cast who love what they do.
What are your favourite song and scene in the show?
My favourite song in the show tends to change weekly. However Slacker may be my favourite overall and the scenes in Sick provide a stark contrast to the rest of the show.
Why should everyone go and see the show and not some other West End musical?
This show is one of few that doesn’t rely on any star billing. Instead it is performed by a talented cast who live for every moment on stage, and the innovative design is nothing like you will have seen before. It you want to leave feeling inspired and maybe exhausted then it’s the show for you.
Do you consider yourself a Geek? What gadgets do you have?
I would only consider myself a bit of a theatre geek but that is something I’m very proud of. Never really loved the academics at school. I much preferred the sports and the arts, and still do. Brian Cox fascinates me and I could watch the news all day, but I think that may be normal. As for gadgets I do love my new iPad and would definitely love some more gadgets.
What do you like to do to chill out?
To relax, I love a drink and good music. I also enjoy great films and I’m currently learning to play the guitar.
Any message to followers of your career or the show…
Thank you for showing an interest! Be brave and keep supporting new writing!
You can follow Robbie Boyle on Twitter @Robbie_Boyle
Interview questions by Neil Cheesman who you can follow on Twitter @LondonTheatre1
Follow Loserville on Twitter @lsrvillemusical
Updated 27th November 2015
