In The Spotlight - Keith Reynolds

How long have you been performing in shows
Since 1993, when I joined the Ashbeian Operatic Society

What got you interested in music / theatre
I have always been interested in music and theatre, but having worked shifts for all of my working life, I always felt this was prohibitive to taking part in musical theatre. However, whilst working alongside a police colleague (Dave Cook) he mentioned that Ashby needed someone to play a Russian soldier who destroys the wedding scene in Fiddler on the Roof. I agreed to this providing under no circumstances would I allow myself to be talked into singing and dancing.....needless to say, I ended up doing both!

What was your first show
Fiddler on the Roof

What has been your favourite show and/or character and why
I have enjoyed all the characters I’ve played, but I suppose my overall favourite has to be Henry Higgins in My Fair Lady. This part was a real challenge as libretto has never been my strongest point! However, with all the help and encouragement I received from everyone involved I found this an immensely rewarding experience. I have also played Fagin, which came a very close second.

What has been your most embarassing or funniest moment in a show
During a production of Guys and Dolls, I rushed off stage at the end of a scene thinking it was my quick change for another scene. I duly managed to get changed only to find the other cast members waiting on stage for me to do a scene in the costume I’d just taken off! So I had to change back and rush on with my braces hanging out below my jacket, a very open neck shirt, no tie and not to mention a very exhausted principal who had to ad lib extensively to cover for me!!

Describe the best and worst costumes you have had to wear
Worst costume – having to wear a frock in Calamity Jane (I don’t do frocks!) playing the part of Francis Fryer, closely followed by the gaudy pink silk outfit in Copacabana! Best Costume – I had a rather nice white military costume to wear for the Major General in Pirates of Penzance and I do seem to spend an awful lot of time in morning suits and top hats, which all seem to please my wife Sue!

What has been your proudest moment
Definitely playing Henry Higgins as it laid a lot of demons to rest