Leading our talented cast this year is Kurt Kansley who is taking on the roles of genius inventor Drosselmeyer and the larger than life Mother Ginger. Kurt has been seen and heard in many musicals across the world, such as Guys and Dolls, Miss Saigon and The Lion King, and most recently starred as Che in Hal Prince’s production of Evita at Sydney Opera House.
1. How are you finding the rehearsal process?
It’s lovely. The cast are wonderful. The creatives are great, everyone here gets treated really well. It’s nice to be away from London. This is my first time in Portsmouth, and it’s lovely down here.
2. Tell us a bit more about your characters?
Drosselmeyer is a toymaker, and the Godfather of Clara. He’s a man of mystery and intrigue. He’s almost a child trapped in middle-aged man’s body. He sets up, creates the whole scenario and plants the seed for Clara to go on this amazing journey and find herself, with a few other surprises in store.
Mother Ginger is the leader of the Land of Fun. She’s wacky, slightly insecure and off the wall. She’s larger than life.
It’s such a gift to be able to play these parts, I love these sorts of jobs where you play multiple roles. You can make them so different and varied, yet connected at the same time as I play both of them.
3. What are you looking forward to about performing in The Nutcracker this December?
I’ve had two really heavy roles this year, so it’s great to be doing something quite light and fun, and entertaining for families and children. I like a challenge and to do something a little different. This is not a pantomime, it’s a lot classier than a pantomime, but still so much fun.
4. What can audiences expect from this production of The Nutcracker?
It’s a Christmas spectacular, like no other Christmas show will give you. Being so inspired by the classic ballet, this is the ultimate Christmas story.
5. Sum up the production in three words
Magical. Mysterious. Meaningful.
6. If you could pick, what would you ask Drosselmeyer to create for you?
I would ask for the ability to transport myself to other worlds, dimensions, to travel and explore, to see what’s out there.
Kurt steps into the roles of Drosselmeyer and Mother Ginger in The Nutcracker – A christmas Musical Spectacular from 13 – 31 December 2019. Click here for more information and to book tickets.