Theatre

TM meets Alistair Brammer from Miss Saigon

Alistair Brammer is an extremely talented musical theatre pro.  With the launch of Miss Saigon in the West End this month, how is he facing up to playing the role of Chris in the show? Let’s find out….

It’s been 25 years since Miss Saigon played in the West End, what can our readers expect from the show?

They can expect a new, exciting version of the show they remember. With some smart new lyrics, exciting modern technical aspects and a new song!

You grew up in Devon, what was your biggest inspiration to make it to the West End?  

I don’t know really. When I was 16 I was involved in Les Mis’s 20th Anniversary in London from an audition tape sent from my local amateur group. And as soon as I stepped onto the Queen’s stage that was all the inspiration I needed.

How does it feel to be part of a show that is so highly anticipated with the UK audience?  

It’s a responsibility for sure. But I’ve never seen the show before so I’m hoping what I am giving them is the most honest version of the story telling that I can. The buzz is crazy though, but it’s a good buzz so it’s hugely exciting.

What challenges do you face in your new role?

It’s just one hell of a journey that Chris goes on.  So doing his story justice and representing the height of his stakes is the biggest challenge.

Miss Saigon is a powerful love story of two young people, how do you find working with Eva Noblezada who plays Kim?

She’s great; a responsive actress and a fab singer. It makes your job easier when you can trust your opposite. And I really can. She’s only 18 and she’s very very good.

Miss Saigon

You’ve played a number of West End parts, from Marius in Les Mis to Billy in War Horse, how does the part of Chris in Miss Saigon compare with past roles?

Well he’s certainly the coolest guy I’ve ever played and he’s a man. I’ve played boys really up to now. I’ve worked a lot on my posture to play this part. And my swagger haha. He’s a soldier and he’s a sergeant. He gives orders and rarely takes them. That’s new for me.

You competed in the TV series Any Dream Will Do, how did you find the experience?

I can barely remember. I think I was on screen for about 10 seconds in total. But it introduced me to a producer who gave me my first job. So I found the experience extremely helpful I suppose!

What is your favourite scene in the show?

The nightmare. It’s awesome.

If you could play any part in any show, what would be your dream role?

If we are only talking about shows, then soppy as it sounds, this one! I would love to give the Prince of Denmark a go but so does everyone. I also have it in my head that I will play a boxer in something. Don’t know why.

And finally, what do you think it is that makes Miss Saigon the perfect night out?  

It’s epic in scale. It’s loud and it’s exciting. It’s a fantastic musical and one that you need someone to talk about it with in the interval.

Be one of the first to see the show. Get tickets here.