Michael Jeremiah is proof that if you work hard, you can go places.
Michael is currently starring on the Milton Keynes Theatre stage in Motown the Musical. It's a big moment for him too - as the shows marks his professional debut on a stage where he learned some of his craft. And once upon a time he worked front of house at the theatre.
Total MK had a chat with him...
This won't be your first time on the MK Theatre stage – because you used to perform in the Stage Experience shows, of course. How important do you think those sessions were for you – what did you learn from them? And would you recommend them to others?
I feel like the stage experience shows were so important for me. The whole process from the auditions to the show was the closest thing to a real industry process I had experienced at that time.
I learned a number of things from stage experience but I would say the thing I learned that’s helped me the most was building a strong work ethic. The hours are long and it takes getting used to but that’s the kind of prep you need for the industry.
I would 100% recommend it to any young performer.
This is your professional debut (congratulations!). How did it feel when you got the part – it validated all of your hard work, and must have been quite a moment for you?
Thank you very much, I feel very blessed to be in Motown. When I got the part, of course there was the initial disbelief and excitement but shortly after I felt more proud because I’d worked hard and felt like I’d deserved it. Like you said very validating.
You'll be taking on the role of one of The Temptations in the show, who are Motown legends. Was Motown a genre that you grew up with, or did you have to research it for the part?
Playing Melvin Franklin in the Temptations alongside is such a blessing!
Motown actually wasn’t a genre I heard much of growing up. I knew a couple of the iconic songs but getting the job required a lot background research & a lot of going back and immersing myself in the music and era.
What's your preferred music to chill out with?
My preferred music to chill out to varies from neo-soul (Tom Misch & Mac Ayres) to some gospel or jazz instrumentals.
Milton Keynes is your home town, so presumably it will be a proud moment to return as part of such a large show?
Returning home to Milton Keynes is such a heart-warming feeling! Coming back after doing am-dram to now doing my first professional show feels like a full circle!
Do you think Milton Keynes is a good area to grow up in as a youngster wanting to break into the arts? What could be done to make things better?
I think Milton Keynes is a really good place for young aspiring performers.
It has improved incredibly for youngsters wanting to break into the performing arts industry! There are so many performing arts schools for example The UPA SCHOOL that teach all disciplines on a Saturday for budding actors and actresses.
And finally, what would you say to encourage anyone who hasn't yet bought a ticket to the show to spend the money?
Thinking about coming to see Motown the Musical?
You are guaranteed:
Great music
A great story
Emotions high and low
Laughter
and best of all
DANCING IN THE STREETS!
Motown the Musical contonues at Milton Keynes Theatre this week. To book click here
Never miss news or leisure info in Milton Keynes - Follow us on www.twitter.com/thisistotalmk
And on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thisistotalmk
