BWW Interviews: CABARET's Siobhan Dillon

Hi Siobhan, welcome to BWW:UK! How are things?

Awesome! Loving every second!

You're currently putting in a stellar turn as Sally Bowles in the UK tour of Cabaret - how are you finding it so far?

Thank you! It's been rewarding but challenging. Sally is one of those roles that everyone knows, so preparing for such a show certainly comes with a huge amount of pressure - not least that which I put on myself.

What are the main challenges of taking on this particular role?

Sally speaks at speed and has some very intense, emotional songs to sing too, so on a technical level my voice is taking a beating. As you can imagine, dancing around in a corset whilst singing takes a bit of getting used to. Aside from that, the obvious 'baggage' of filling Liza's shoes in such an iconic role isn't a walk in the park either - I'm a massive perfectionist, so I never rest with working on a part. I drive myself crazy trying to improve performances.

It certainly sounds like a challenge - but a good one. What do you think of my hometown of Bristol? What has been your favourite venue so far and why?

I really love the energy in the Bristol Hippodrome. It's also a beautiful city with lots of lovely shops as well as hidden market gems, so...BRISTOL!

Good choice! Where are you most looking forward to performing?

Dublin; my Dad grew up there, so I have lots of family there, which of course means absolutely no drinking during that week...

How are you finding touring life? I imagine it can be quite tough at times...

I love my wardrobe. I find getting ready in the morning quite an important exercise for preparing my mind creatively. I am totally aware of how ridiculous that sounds. I can be a bit of a chameleon, so some days I fancy 70s wedges and other days a casual Converse, but I like variety so being restricted doesn't suit me very well! Don't get me wrong, though, I do tour with in excess of two suitcases!

You've played quite an eclectic range of characters, from the mostly wholesome Sandy in Grease, to bitchy Vivienne in Legally Blonde and now racy yet vulnerable Sally Bowles - which has been your favourite role so far and why?

Although Molly [in Ghost[ was quite a difficult show to sing eight times a week, it was a wonderful story to tell. I loved every second of that show. But Sally is the biggest challenge. She's mental and wonderful, and trying to portray her as I want her to be seen, within such a stimulating yet complex story, is challenging. But that's probably why I'll never tire of playing her. Yeah, Sally's my favourite!

What comes next for you? Are there any particular roles you'd love to take on in the future?

I'm heading to LA again in January to focus on acting with my American agent - it's also a great opportunity to change up the scenery! I am hoping to record some of my songs finally in the next few months too, so that's exciting. As for roles? Satine in Moulin Rouge...Vivienne in Pretty Woman?! I don't think they've been written yet!

Thanks, Siobhan!

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