Glass Ceiling Theatre return to the stage of Newport’s Dolman Theatre this September with their presentation of the musical classic, Thoroughly Modern Millie featuring Claire Tucker in the title role.
Based on the 1967 film version starring Julie Andrews, Thoroughly Modern Millie tells the story of a small-town girl, Millie Dillmount, who comes to New York City to marry for money instead of love – a thoroughly modern aim in 1922, when women were just entering the workforce. Millie soon begins to take delight in the flapper lifestyle, but problems arise when she checks into a hotel owned by the leader of a white slavery ring in China. Chaos and pandemonium ensue, accompanied by comedic moments, skilful dancing and delightful songs, including ‘Gimme Gimme’, ‘Not for the life of me’, ‘Forget about the boy’ and the breakneck tap number ‘The Speed Test’.
Taking to the stage in the role of Miss Dorothy Brown is Nicole Cleaton, a BA Hons Musical Theatre graduate whose previous theatre credits include Emma Carew in Jekyll & Hyde, Cat in the Hat in Seussical and Carrie Pipperidge in Carousel.
Here, Nicole discusses her role in Thoroughly Modern Millie
What do you enjoy most about Thoroughly Modern Millie?
The best thing about Thoroughly Modern Millie is the upbeat and feel good mood it puts you in. The music is extremely catchy and can’t help but sway along or tap your feet, quite literally. The numerous amounts of comical moments certainly help too!
Tell us about your character
Miss Dorothy Brown is a very fun yet wildly naïve character. She is totally oblivious to the severity of the wider world around her but she’s also very much intrigued by it. She’s a friendly and loving character but I think occasionally her vulnerability can get her into trouble. She’s not sure of the true meaning of love but she certainly does her best to find it.
Glass Ceiling Theatre will present Thoroughly Modern Millie at Newport’s Dolman Theatre from 5th – 7th September, 2019
Describe Thoroughly Modern Millie in three words!
Funny, quirky and adventurous.
What have you found challenging about Thoroughly Modern Millie?
The most challenging part of the show was the dialogue with the boys playing Ching Ho and Bun Foo. The Mandarin, although impressive, was quite difficult to work with in a scene. I obviously didn’t know what the boys were saying so it was hard to know when to speak and when not to. However, after a lot of rehearsal, we aced it!
Why should audiences come and see the show?
People should come and see Thoroughly Modern Millie because it’s the perfect balance between comedy and drama. There’s lots of little unexpected twists and turns throughout which really add to the satirical elements. Also, the girls tapping is second to none. Oh! and not forgetting Jordan Leigh’s impressive rapping segment!
Come along, sit back and enjoy!
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Glass Ceiling Theatre’s production of Thoroughly Modern Millie will be running from 5th – 7th September at the Dolman Theatre, Newport.
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Tickets available from http://www.dolmantheatre.co.uk or at the box office on 01633 263670.