Louise Winter is starring as Gertrude in Brett Dean’s Hamlet, part of the current Glyndebourne Tour, which calls in at Milton Keynes Theatre this Friday, November 24.
She talked Glyndebourne with Total MK…
Home is…
Just a few miles away from Glyndebourne Opera House, in East Sussex. Not only do I live in one of the most beautiful parts of the UK but the location is very convenient for travelling, which is a huge part of my job.
Where do you like to stay on tour?
Having visited Milton Keynes in the past I have always been made to feel very welcome, wherever I have stayed. What is essential to me though is that I can arrive the night before my first performance. Arrive, relax and enjoy a quiet, solitary light meal.
What is a typical Glyndebourne Tour day like for you?
After a quiet night, I always eat a very good breakfast but try to avoid caffeine and carbohydrates. The physical demands of a performer are many, and I find cutting out these two things help me achieve a better balance, both mentally and physically.
Light exercise is also essential. A good walk after breakfast allows me to familiarise myself with the town or city again, even if I have visited many times. It also allows me to indulge in my love of history and historical landmarks. There are so many all over the UK, I always seek them out.
As a keen member of the National Trust I hope to revisit the very beautiful Ascott House. It’s stunning interiors are matched by the lovely grounds and gardens.
The role of Gertrude in Brett Dean’s Hamlet has proved to be one of the most demanding, challenging and intriguing I have ever undertaken, which makes it exciting but also demands 100% focus.
And then dinner?
One of my favourite restaurant is actually just outside Milton Keynes, the Millhouse Riverside Restaurant in Sharnbrook.
Best bit of advice you’ve been given.
I have three!
Don’t worry too much about the acoustics in the different theatres on tour, you have to sing in them anyway!
Never whistle backstage in a Theatre (Bad luck!) and…
Always be yourself, with a smile!
To book tickets for the performance click here
