Actor Hannah Rose on playing the iconic lead in Tread the Boards' current touring production of Alice in Wonderland
Hannah Rose, 22, from Worcester, has donned the iconic blue dress to play the lead role in Tread the Boards’ summer tour of Alice in Wonderland, but not before she has a quick word with Herald arts.
What was your first on-stage performance?
I played Grumpy the dwarf in Panto Crime which was a mash up of different pantos in primary school. My first professional show was when I played Ela Delahey in Charley’s Aunt with Worcester Repertory Company when I was 17.
When did you decide to become an actor?
Through a competition I ended up playing one of the ballet girls in Billy Elliot on the West End when I was 11, and after that huge experience I knew that I definitely wanted to keep working in this industry.
I’ve been very fortunate in that I’ve been spotted by different directors/teachers who have worked with me to give me opportunities and gain a lot of experience. I’ve always danced since I was young and I’ve trained through diplomas and working in the industry so far. Once Covid is more settled I plan to audition for drama school to do a degree in acting.
Who has been an inspiration?
John-Robert Partridge (director of Alice and playing the Queen of Hearts) has definitely been an inspiration as I’ve learnt a lot working with him. I’ve also been very lucky to be mentored by Ben Humphrey (artistic director of Tortive Theatre and previously the Swan Theatre, Worcester). Emilia Clarke (Game of Thrones) is also someone I admire.
Have you managed to do any work in the last year?
It’s definitely been difficult due to Covid restrictions but I’ve been fortunate enough to branch out into film over the past year, filming a horror feature film and a couple short films. Between acting jobs I work as a barista and waitress so that work was also put on hold during the lockdowns.
What has inspired you during lockdown?
Lockdown made me truly realise how important the arts are. I can’t imagine how we all would have got through the lockdowns and uncertainty of everything without things like TV, Netflix, films and books.
What inspired me to keep going was media apps like Zoom, where I could keep in regular contact with those in the same situation and also take online acting classes.
How does it feel to be going out on the road with Alice in Wonderland?
It’s been fantastic to get back on the stage. Everyone in the cast and crew are great work with and all are working their hardest to get the show on the road in such a short space of time. There’s definitely an air of excitement.
What can audiences expect from this production of Alice?
A great family show that’s funny, fast-paced and thoroughly entertaining.
Tell us about your character.
I used to love watching the Disney film when I was a kid, so I’ve always been fond of Alice. However, becoming Alice has made me realise how much of a spoilt child she is! But being in rehearsals as her has almost felt like a dream due to all the quirky nonsense that occurs throughout the show.
What is the most Alice thing you’ve ever done?
I’ve had a fair few tumbles and falls myself, however not down a rabbit hole!
What other roles would you love to play?
I’d like to play a variety of different roles in my career, from Shakespeare and period dramas to contemporary work, especially something with Mischief Theatre who have created The Play that Goes Wrong.
What’s next after this?
I’m hoping to continue branching out into more film and TV work. And I’d love to do a Christmas show but that’s depending whether Covid restrictions stay lifted.
Tread the Boards is on tour with Alice in Wonderland until 5th September. Book tickets and find out more at www.theattictheatre.co.uk.
