ON STAGE: Matilda's 'Miss Honey' talks theatre with Total MK

Carly Thoms is starring in Matilda at Milton Keynes Theatre this month, in the role of encouraging teacher Miss Honey.

Her other work includes Natella/Ludvica in The Caucasian, LV in The Rise and Fall of Litte Voice, Miss Dorothy in Thoroughly Modern Millie and the title role in Cinderella.

She talked glycerine sweets, embarrassing moments, and marathon training with Total MK...

Tell us about your first memory of the theatre…
My first memory of theatre is going to the Royal Albert Hall with my primary school.

And the moment when you realised the theatre was your calling?

I was cast in Whistle down the Wind when I was 12 and from that point I wanted to be an actor.

Any dreadful calamities, or funny happenings on stage that you would care to share with us?

My most embarrassing moment was singing acapella as Heidi Sweiger in The Sound Of Music, because I missed my entrance with the orchestra – very embarrassing!

Which stage actor, living or dead, would you most like to meet, and what question would you ask them?

Judi Dench – how has she managed to have such a varied career and what has been her highlight?

Do you have any superstitions, or pre-performance routines?

Rebecca Thornhill (Mrs Wormwood) has introduced me to glycerine sweets [for sore throats] which have become a bit of a routine before a show – I’m addicted!

The best piece of advice given to you when you started in the business?

Don’t try to be something you are not, also knows your strengths and believe in them!

What do you think has been your steepest learning curve?

Working hard pays off – it might just take longer than you think to see the rewards. Also learn not to compare your journey to others.

How do you fill your spare time while on tour?

I like to explore the local tourist spots, and running - I am training for a half marathon.

Nerves or excitement? Which takes over just before the curtain rises?

Excitement definitely. Auditions make me nervous – but curtain up is definitely excitement.

How can the future of theatre be safeguarded? What would you do to entice new blood to audiences?

Telling stories that appeal to a cross section of the population is very important. Ensuring a variety of backgrounds feel welcome, is key I think.

Now tell us about the three favourite roles your have played so far, and what makes them special.

1 Brat – Whistle down the Wind – my first job and I was 12!

2 Little Voice – The Rise and Fall of Little Voice – what fantastic songs to sing!

3 Liesl – The Sound of Music – a classic favourite.

Finally, what are the main reasons everyone should see the show?

It has something for everyone. It reminds you of what is important and will make you think.

To book tickets to see Matilda at Milton Keynes Theatre click here

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