Behind the Scenes with Jessica Lesley Harris - Alcolom / Pearl Ladd of Chu Chin Chow - GSOV Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Victoria

Chu Chin Chow 2016 - presented by GSOV
Malvern 26 – 27 November

Behind the Scenes with Jessica Lesley Harris

Alcolom / Pearl Ladd of Chu Chin Chow

Tell me about your character in Chu Chin Chow. What do you think of her?
Alcolom is the head wife of the wealthy Kasim Baba but the man she really wants to be with is his kinder, poorer brother, Ali Baba. Alcolom is in a tough position, but she is smart, and resilient enough to deal with it, and she doesn’t give up hope.

How is this show different from others you’ve appeared in?
The rewriting of the script to feature Chu Chin Chow’s original creator, Oscar Asche, makes it a little different from the norm. It means all the actors on stage are playing more than one part - I am Alcolom until Oscar pulls us out of the scene and then I am the actress playing Alcolom (Pearl Ladd) - I have never been two characters at once before.

What has been your biggest challenge about taking on this role?
So far not laughing too much through the rehearsals has been the biggest challenge! Some of the dialogue and lyrics make me laugh every time I hear them.

Jessica Lesley Harris - Alcolom / Pearl Ladd of Chu Chin Chow

Jessica Lesley Harris - Alcolom / Pearl Ladd of Chu Chin Chow

Which celebrity would you like to see tackle this character? Extra props for an Aussie connection!
Natalie Dormer. No extra props because she’s British but she has this way of being full of energy even when she’s completely still that would suit the character - the way I see Alcolom, she’s ready to scream at any moment but isn’t at liberty to do so.

Which is your favourite song from Chu Chin Chow, and why do you think the audience will like it?
The thing I like most about this show is the variety of the music. Each song has its own feel so the audience will get a bit of everything. I particularly like a duet between Ali Baba and Marjanah (who loves Ali’s son, Nur-Al-Huda) called “All My Days Til End of Life”. It makes me laugh but is pretty at the same time.

Do you have a favourite line of dialogue from this production? If so, share it with us!
I like Zahrat’s dialogue towards the end of the show but I don’t want to give anything away.

Tell us about your first stage show and what you learned from the experience?
My first “real” production was a musical adaptation of The Magician’s Nephew with Voicebox Youth Opera. I was twelve and from memory I was the youngest and least experienced cast member so I had a lot to learn. I particularly remember learning to keep an eye on my props because stage managers have a lot to do.

Corny but honest answer – personally, I look up to my parents. They are still my heroes.

Jessica Lesley Harris - Alcolom / Pearl Ladd of Chu Chin Chow

What role would you love to play that you haven’t had a chance to as yet?
My favourite role ever is Mimi from La Boheme. The music is just so beautiful and I think there is a lot of nuance to that character that I would love to delve into.

What does your perfect Sunday afternoon look like?
Anything relaxed - an easy walk, a quiet beer with friends, chilling on the couch - all relaxing is good.

Is there someone you look up to professionally (as an actor/director/etc.) or personally?
Corny but honest answer – personally, I look up to my parents. They are still my heroes.

What’s the last thing you do before you step out on stage / the curtain goes up?
It changes depending on the character. If I’m not out of my own head and in character by then I’m panicking.

Book your Tickets to Chu Chin Chow
Watch Jessica as Alcolom as she seeks to outsmart and outlast the rich robber merchants around her in GSOV’s Chu Chin Chow at Malvern Theatre from 26 – 27 November.

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This project is supported by City of Greater Geelong through its Community Arts Grants Program.

City of Greater Geelong

Chu Chin Chow

Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Victoria presents Chu Chin Chow, based on the smash hit that ran for 2238 performances on London's West End.

Enter the exotic extravaganza of Chu Chin Chow, a grand Arabian Nights adventure from the rich imagination of Geelong-born impresario Oscar Asche – Victoria’s very own musical theatre superstar!

Find out more about Chu Chin Chow

Book your Malvern Tickets

Chu Chin Chow 2016 - presented by GSOV