Tom Lorcan joins the cast of One Man, Two Guvnors
Tom Lorcan has recently joined the cast of One Man, Two Guvnors at the Theatre Royal Haymarket, and earlier this week he answered a few questions about himself and the show.
You left the role of Tony (Billy’s older brother) in Billy Elliot The Musical in November 2011. What were the highlights for you performing in such a fabulous show?
It was an amazing year for me with so many highlights. Thinking about it, the biggest positives have come after the job, as it has led to some fantastic opportunities. Not just for me but for lots of that cast, especially the ex-Billy actors. Keep an eye out for Dean-Charles Chapman! He’s doing brilliantly well! Personally though, playing such a passionate and demanding role was a big learning curve, and I have taken a lot from the process. It taught me a great deal about myself. However the best thing about the job was undoubtably the people involved, and I have made some great friends.
Can you tell us what you have been involved in during 2012? Was the year a success for you?
2012 was a great year, thank you. The best way to describe it is probably as a ‘career’ year. On the back of Billy Elliot I felt it was important to broaden my CV and try and open some doors that are still (sadly and unnecessarily) somewhat closed to actors that work in musicals. So with that in mind I had a bash at some screen work and I was very fortunate to get some good guest roles on Doctors and Waterloo Road, and also a film called The Days Inbetween. It was invaluable experience and, along with a sitcom pilot and a couple of commercials that I shot abroad, it meant that it was, on paper at least, my most successful year so far.
You recently joined the cast of One Man, Two Guvnors as part of the ensemble. Can you tell us about your character(s) and how he fits into the storyline?
I play a few small parts in the ensemble but my main purpose in the production is to understudy two of the principle roles, Alan Dangle, a love-struck slightly ridiculous young actor, and Alfie, a deaf 87-year-old man with balance problems and a pacemaker. It’s a challenge!!
What was it that attracted you to One Man, Two Guvnors?
Well it’s pretty much a continuation of what I mentioned above about adding other elements to my CV and broadening my experience. To work on a play for the National Theatre in the West End is a real high point for me and no matter what the size of the role or what I have done before, I’m very lucky to be involved. From a literal ‘business’ point of view, if I were to pigeon-hole myself in one genre of work, whether it’s musicals or television or whatever, I would be naive and would create limitations for myself in the long run. Acting is a career and a very difficult one to succeed in, so the more opportunities you can take and the more adaptable you can be, the more likely you are to have a long, sustainable and interesting working life.
One Man, Two Guvnors is now residing in its third London theatre and has also been on Broadway. What is it that makes it such a success?
It’s pure joy. I have never experienced a job like it. The audience are laughing the whole way through from a combination of great writing by Richard Bean and hilarious performances. Every night feels like a party and rehearsals were filled with giggles. The audience just seem to get carried on the story and the energy of the actors. It’s great… Come see it!!
Why should everyone come along to see the show?
Because all the cool people do…
Also Rufus Hound is joining the cast form the current tour on Feb 4th and he is fantastic. So come and see it!!
You are now back on the stage in London’s West End, do you have any long-term ambitions?
I’m just happy as long as I’m working. Ideally I would like to keep steadily progressing and have a balanced career that I earn for myself through good work. That, and never having to take a job I don’t want to do, just for the money.
Working back in London, how do you like to chill out when you are not on the stage?
Most of my time away from work is spent with my fiancé Emily Shaw. We live in north London and at the moment it’s all about wedding plans (I spend a lot of time nodding). It’s very exciting. Other than that I’m an idiotically devoted Leeds United fan and I love a good box set!
Have you any message for those following your career?
To the 2 or 3 of you… Thanks for your constant support. It’s very humbling and lovely to have people interested in what I do.
Many thanks Tom and best wishes for One Man, Two Guvnors. You can follow Tom Lorcan on Twitter at @tomlorcan
Interview questions by Neil who you can follow on Twitter @LondonTheatre1
Our previous extensive interview with Tom Lorcan can be read HERE.
Content updated 7th October 2014
