We caught up with our very own Christmas Prince Shaun Mendum who is taking on the role of The Nutcracker Prince in our upcoming festive musical.
Shaun trained at Elmhurst School of Dance, and started his career as a ballet dancer with Ballet Cymru. As an actor, Shaun’s credits include Alonzo and Mungojerrie in CATS with Royal Caribbean Productions, Snow in Snow White: Rotten to the Core at the Above the Stag Theatre and Father Freeman in The Strawman to name a few. You may have also seen Shaun star in Aquilo’s music video Calling Me, amassing over 7 million views.
How are you finding the rehearsal process?
I’m loving it. I always love the rehearsal process, partly because it gives you the chance to bond with cast mates. It’s nice to have a creative team that allows you to develop your character, I’m enjoying discovering new things about Peter and his story. It’s good to be given free rein to explore where characters can go.
Tell us about your character.
He’s a cocky toy soldier. A Prince, who likes to remind people of his status! He doesn’t often get things right, but he is very confident in himself and his Guards. His guards are played by the Young Cast, I like working with them, they’re a fun bunch.
What are you looking forward to most about performing in The Nutcracker this December?
It’s always lovely to be performing in front of a crowd, making them smile, laugh, make people feel something. I love live theatre – the thought that anything can happen is really exciting! And that buzz you get just before you go on stage.
What can audiences expect from this production?
It’s all singing, all dancing. But you’ll have to wait and see who sings and who dances! I think people will enjoy Clara’s journey – learning more about herself and growing up. The musical is full of wacky and wonderful people who affected by Clara, and in turn she is affected by them.
Sum up the production in three words.
Bright. Feel-good. Magical.
What do you associate with Christmas?
I associate Christmas with family, people being together. Sitting round the table, playing games. And eating as much as you can!
If you could choose one thing, what would you ask Drosselmeyer to create for you?
This is really boring, but something like a keys locator – that then goes and gets my keys for me! That would be great!
Shaun stars in The Nutcracker – A Christmas Musical Spectacular from 13 – 31 December 2019. Click here for more information and to book tickets.