In The Spotlight - Jude Coles
How long have you been performing in showsActually on the stage (when the lights are on!) since about 1994. But previously to that I helped out backstage (mostly doing props) for Loughborough Theatre Club.
What got you interested in music / theatre
My Mum and Uncle used to perform with Loughborough Theatre Club (before we 3 girls were born!). So there was always a musical interest hiding in the background. When Gill and I got older we used to go to rehearsals with Mum and help her do the props. After she passed away we carried on helping out and it has stayed with us (although hidden for a while for Gill) ever since.
What was your first show
Well now that would be "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas", the first time round with Christchurch about 1994ish. I had been asked by Lee Costelow if I could help out with props during a 3 week run of La Cage aux Folles. Which then led onto me helping out with props for their next show as well. During this time I met Richard (now husband) who also came down to help backstage. One night we were sitting in the pub and Lee said to me that they were doing Whorehouse next and that I ought to audition, to which I just laughed and said that I only go on the stage in blackouts!! Richard then said that if I audition, he would audition!! Well of course this wasn't something I could turn down seeing, a stocky rugby prop dancing and singing (especially in a jock strap or basque!!), so as they say the rest is history!
What has been your favourite show and/or character and why
That's really hard to answer, I have loved all the shows I have done (well all except Hello Dolly, after doing a 3 week run with Danny La Rue it's enough to make anyone hate the show!!). I really enjoyed playing one of the Cell Block girls in Chicago, and I loved being Madam T. from Les Mis in a couple of concerts. But you know me anything with feathers and I'm happy.
What has been your most embarassing or funniest moment in a show
Well I am pretty lucky as I've not really experienced anything that horrific!! I suppose having to wear a basque, suspenders and stockings in your first show was fairly scary, although thinking about it, it was more scary seeing your boyfriend wear one!! I do sense some typecasting though, as I have done Whorehouse twice, Mein Heir and bits from Miss Saigon to name but a few! No doubt others will remind me of worse things after they have read this, which I have blocked out of my memory!!!!
Describe the best and worst costumes you have had to wear
Best costume - anything with sequins and feathers, I just love them. Well worst costume, nothing really springs to mind - but I have had a few really bad wigs!!! At least from these experiences I know that it would be a bad idea to go bleach blonde and curly.
What has been your proudest moment
As sickening as it may sound, I am extremely proud to be a member of Greasepaint - right from when Gill and I first joined we have been made to feel welcome and have loved every step of the way. It's like a drug, completely addictive.
If you could choose any show to perform in, what would it be and why
Oh wow, where should I start? Well it may sound corny, but I would love to do Grease. Also all the usual ones, like Les Mis or Miss Saigon, simply because the music sends shivers down my spine. Although I have done Whorehouse twice, it was/is a great show and I would love to do it again. But I am happy to try anything, from the more traditional to the modern.