October
From Friday 14 October to 5 November, Curve in Leicester will be playing host to a brand new Curve Production of the classic story of One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest.
Thomas Renshaw: My interest in theatre began through my Grandad who was an amateur actor. I saw him regularly playing various roles such as Dame, Little John and many times as Santa. My first experience on stage was playing a Badger in Lion, Witch and The Wardrobe at the Little Theatre in Retford.
You recently graduated from De Montfort University, how does it feel to be back in Leicester?
It is lovely to be back in Leicester. I thoroughly enjoyed my three years studying at De Montfort Uni, I have so many fond memories and it feels like coming home. The city has blossomed in the four years since I graduated, the now completed Highcross shopping centre is amazing, and the huge television in the city centre. And of course the fabulous Curve theatre which is an architectural phenomenon.
You’ve been in a variety of productions over the past couple of years, how does this compare to your previous?
I thoroughly enjoyed all of the other productions I have been involved with, however, it was always an ambition of mine to work at the Curve, and I am loving every minute of it. The Curve is an amazing theatre to be involved with. I have previously worked at the Leicester Haymarket while I was at University, and it was during my experiences there that I made the decision I would like to audition for Drama schools. Everybody is so welcoming and warm at the Curve and I am working with such a talented group of individuals.
Chief Bromden has become an iconic character in film and theatre and must be a challenging role. Has it been any easier, considering it’s your second time playing the Chief?
I wouldn’t say it has been any easier this time around. However I have been given the opportunity to explore the depth of the character. Michael Buffong is an excellent director and I love the way he has approached the text. He has definitely helped me find many new things about Chief Bromden which I hadn’t discovered the first time around.
You’re coming to the end of the rehearsal phase, are you excited to be performing in a state of the art venue such as Curve?
This is an easy one, yes, yes, and yes!! We haven’t actually been on the stage yet, but I saw An Inspector Calls a couple of weeks ago, and I am relishing the opportunity to perform in such an amazing theatre. I can’t wait!
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest runs at Curve 14 Oct – 5 Nov. Tickets and info: 0116 242 3595 / www.curveonline.co.uk
Photos courtesy of Pamela Raith
