In The Spotlight - Jennifer Nelson

How long have you been performing in shows
My first theatre show was four years ago, unless you count the couple of times I was dragged into doing pantomime on the QE2 where I used to work in the entertainment department.

What got you interested in music / theatre
Growing up in Cape Breton, Canada I had no idea about musical theatre. It was only when I met my husband, who did it professionally, onboard a cruise ship that I became interested. When I moved to the UK he took me to see my first West End show - Avenue Q. I was hooked (and am thrilled that I get to be a part of the show in May !). He introduced me to Greasepaint as a way to meet people, and what talented, welcoming and lovely people they all are !

What was your first show
My first show was Fame back in 2010. I played Lambchops and got a chance to learn a drum solo. After the first performance and a full audience dancing and singing along to the finale I completely understood why people loved performing so much!

What has been your favourite show and/or character and why
So far I have loved each show in its own way. I am predicting that Avenue Q will take this prize. It is so funny and it has a special place being the first show I ever saw.

What has been your most embarassing or funniest moment in a show
It would probably be in Fame, during my drum solo. I was just doing the 'big finish' and one of the drum sticks accidentally flew out of my hand and somewhere into the wings, I had to act like it was part of the act and I was being 'Rock & Roll' so I just hit the cymbal and threw the other stick away too.

Describe the best and worst costumes you have had to wear
Best - my bird girl costume in Seussical. It was made from scratch to my measurements with my favourite colours and lots of feathers. It was perfect right down to the matching frilly knickers. It was absolutely beautiful and we had a lot of fun playing with the makeup to match.

Worst - I have liked/loved most of my costumes but there was this one hat in Jekyll & Hyde which was far too small for my head. I am convinced it was meant for a child.

What has been your proudest moment
I would have to say my proudest moment was getting the part of Christmas Eve in Avenue Q. When I first joined Greasepaint I was so nervous of singing in front of people and used to panic over one little line I had to sing in Fame, constantly getting it wrong. I have my own song in this show and I am so excited and proud of how much I have grown over the years.

If you could choose any show to perform in, what would it be and why
Chicago. The music, the costumes, the Cell block Tango ! The women are just so strong and I think it would be so much fun.

Do you have any plans to pursue theatre as a career
Oh no, I will leave that to my husband.