Acting Is So Much More Than A Job - with Sophie Matthew

This week, Kevin talks to star of stage and screen, Sophie Matthew, leading West End star in shows such as Mamma Mia and Summer Holiday!

Sophie talks about the ways in which she prepares for her roles, how she perceives the effect of lockdown upon theatre, and the story of her incredible theatrical career so far.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Performers are currently suffering especially hard, as the outlet they have chosen with which to express themselves - performance - is being hit hard by restrictions.
• All actors must find their own route into discovering their character. Some choose the more "method" approach, while others attempt a deep empathic connection with the character and their motivations.
• Finding an agent who understands the career path you want to take, and will encourage that direction, is a key component in building a stage career.
• Actors are used to being out of work. It's part of the deal you make with yourself when you begin a stage career. But lockdown has completely closed the industry, leading to an unprecedented effect upon the world of theatre itself.

BEST MOMENTS

'As performers, it's our outlet - our way of expressing ourselves' - 1:24

'It's about trying to have a level of empathy for the character you're playing' - 14:16

'I like the idea of the journey' - 21:53

'You're used to putting your whole being into these jobs' - 32:35

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Sophie Matthew Twitter - https://twitter.com/sophielmatthew?lang=en

Sophie Matthew @ Spotlight - https://www.spotlight.com/interactive/cv/0637-9085-8264

ABOUT THE HOST

Kevin Clifton is a professional dancer who has been performing & competing at the highest level for over a decade. Kevin has worked on shows like 'Burn the floor' & 'Rock of Ages' to 'Strictly Come Dancing' one of the biggest TV shows in the UK which Kevin won in 2018.

CONTACT METHOD

Kevin Clifton Instagram

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Kevin Clifton YouTube