Harold Prince and Susan Stroman will direct an all-American cast in the world premiere of Paradise Found at the Menier Chocolate Factory. Based on the novel The Tale of the 1002nd Night by Viennese author Joseph Roth, Paradise Found previews from 19 May.
And we've been catching up with them! Here's the first of our EXCLUSIVE Paradise Found instalments - check back soon for more!
Jim Poulos
Tell us a bit about your role in the show.
I play a few roles in the show with an age ranging from a 15 years old boy, losing his virginity for the first time, to Franz Joseph I circa 1873. So I get to change things up a bit throughout the show. I guess versatility is part of my job. Being lucky enough to work with Hal Prince, Susan Stroman, and an amazing cast and creative team, is also part of my job.
What are you looking forward to about being in London?
I'm really looking forward to having a pint in an authentic pub. It might sound cliche, but it just seems so cool, to be sitting it in a pub in London and having a pint. It will be even more special because I'll definitely be having my first pint with my wife, Melissa, who is also working on the show as one of Hal's assistants.
Judy Kaye
Tell us a bit about your role in the show.
I'm playing Frau Matzner, the madame of the brothel, "one of the best on this block." She is a business woman, not unlike Mrs Lovett, but completely pragmatic. She finds her "leg up" to success and a way to climb the social ladder and grabs it. She's very dry and a lot of fun to play!
What are you looking forward to about being in London?
I haven't worked in London since I played Mrs Lovett opposite Len Cariou, the original Sweeney Todd, at Royal FestivAl Hall some years back. I've recorded at Abbey Road and done concerts with The London Symphony Orchestra. But I have longed to do a play in London, to be able to become part of the London theatrical community. I am so excited that it is happening now. I can't wait!
