Andrew Davison stars stars in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe which opens to theatre-goers at Milton Keynes Theatre this evening (Tues).
Andrrew has an extensive list of theatre credits to his name, including Pretty Woman: The Musical, We Will Rock You and Miss Saigon.
Ahead of the curtain rising, Andrew talked all things theatre, including this current engagement, with Total MK...
Tell us about your first memory of the theatre
When I was in middle school we took a trip down to London to see We Will Rock You at the Dominion theatre. I remember being in awe at the whole spectacle, especially the Killer Queen coming out into the audience on that big platform!
And the moment when you realised the theatre was your calling
The first time I got a taste for being on stage was performing in my school pantomime. From there I started going to dance classes and went to drama clubs on weekends... I just loved it all!
It wasn't until I was 16 and figuring out what I wanted to do with the next stage of my life that I considered pursuing this as a potential career. I wouldn't say there was one moment in particular... it just evolved from a young age into something I am fortunate enough to do for a living now!
Any dreadful calamities, or funny happenings on stage that you would care to share with us?
YES, LOTS. None that I would be allowed to share unfortunately!
Which stage actor, living or dead, would you most like to meet, and what question would you ask them?
Ian McKellen... How do you take your tea?
Do you have any superstitions, or pre-performance routines?
Not personally but little moments tend to form naturally from job to job... for example, before every performance of The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe just after we are given "Standing By" from stage management... we collectively shake hands and say "Stanton By" (Stanton being the name of the actor playing Aslan)... a cute ritual that we started nine months ago and seems to have stuck!
You've worked on a number of big shows - what has been your favourite to date, and what is your dream role?
I'd be reluctant to pick one as each holds a special place in my heart for different reasons. No dream role, I'm keen to continue working and exploring new things. I've found the most fulfilment and joy in my career from the most unexpected opportunities!
The best piece of advice given to you when you started in the business
Overnight success is always 10 years in the making.
What do you think has been your steepest learning curve
I remember working with someone who used to always say "Nothing to prove, everything to share". It changed my whole perspective on this industry and the way I approach acting. Taking away the pressure of having to prove something makes everything so much more enjoyable... that goes for the audition process and the job itself!
How do you fill your spare time while on tour
Usually finding the best coffee in town!
Nerves or excitement? Which takes over just before the curtain rises?
Pure excitement that we get to share this beautiful show with so many people.
Finally, sell the show - we can't let you go without giving The Lion,The Witch and the Wardrobe a plug!
It's such a gorgeous piece of storytelling with so many wonderful art forms brought together to transport you into the magical world of Narnia... I'm confident in saying this show will be unlike anything you've seen at the theatre!
> The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe opens this evening (July 22) and runs at MK Theatre until Saturday, July 26.
Book your ticket: https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-lion-the-witch-and-the-wardrobe/milton-keynes-theatre/
