In The Spotlight - Tania Hutchinson
How long have you been performing in showsEr, this question makes me feel very, very old. My first dance show was at the age of 4, my first panto was at the age of 6 and, finally I performed in my first 'proper' show, 'The King and I', when I was 13 years old. That makes almost 42 years of theatre - now you know why I feel old!
What got you interested in music / theatre
My Mam is the person to thank. She put me through dance school from a very early age (even when I didn't want to go!). My grandparents were travelling carnival/show folk though, so I suppose it was going to be something of a miracle if something didn't rub off on me.
What was your first show
The King and I in 1977.
What has been your favourite show and/or character and why
The biggest laugh I have ever had, both at rehearsals, and on stage has to be in a farce called 'Noises off'. Although I do love my musicals, there is nothing like playing a meaty character in a dramatic play, so another favourite would be Arthur Miller's 'The Crucible'. Louise in our own 'Carousel' is also a gift to play, there's more to her than meets the eye. A small part I played in Brigadoon called Maggie also turned out to be one of my very favourites, thank you Shane and Jeanette. What a dream of a part for a dancer.
What has been your most embarassing or funniest moment in a show
Losing my voice when I was playing Sally in 'Me and My Girl' must have been the worst week of my life. For a long time after that, I never wanted to go on stage again.
Describe the best and worst costumes you have had to wear
As Bonnie in 'Anything Goes', I had some very glamorous things to wear and I always love period costumes (they hide all my lumps and bumps). Sorry Victoria but the worst costume of all time has to go to the Jitterbugs in 'Wizard of Oz'!
What has been your proudest moment
My audition for the Royal School of Ballet. It was nice to show my mam that all the years of hard work had been worth it.
If you could choose any show to perform in, what would it be and why
West Side Blooming Story!
Do you have any plans to pursue theatre as a career
At my age, are you joking? No, I had my chance years ago but decided to take an academic path instead. I do plan to return to more drama in the future though, just as soon as the children have flown the nest. Oh yes, silly me, I've just had another baby, that may be not for some time now!