Thanks for joining us today. It’s great to chat with another Sam—clearly, we have great taste in names! To kick things off, could you share a bit about your background and what first drew you into the world of theatre?
Sam: If you ask my family, I’ve been performing since I could walk and talk to anyone that would listen! I think I must have been a little bit of an attention-seeker (still am), and I found that performing brought joy to others, which in turn made me happy. I jumped into every school production, took as many classes and courses as I could after graduating, and have been actively auditioning for anything and everything ever since.
It sounds like performing has always been in your blood. I can definitely relate. What was one of the first roles or shows that really made you feel like, ‘Yes, this is what I’m meant to do’?”
Sam: I was having some doubts around my chosen career path, and for a few years, I took a break from musical theatre to develop my screen acting skills. In 2019, I auditioned for Mad About Theatre’s production of Rock of Ages on a whim, and was blown away when I was offered a lead role in the show. I couldn’t help but feel it was a sign that I was exactly where I needed to be. Portraying Sherrie in this show was a significant milestone for me - my first lead role, first paid opportunity, and first touring experience, which was quite overwhelming! I remember feeling super intimidated by all the talented cast and creatives and from only having a two-week rehearsal period. But everyone was so kind, hardworking, and supportive of one another. Collaborating on such a fun, silly show involving some of my favourite music with that team is one of my fondest rehearsal memories. Despite all those initial doubts and fears, the euphoria of performing on the opening night was unforgettable. I am so grateful for that opportunity, as I learned so much and grew a lot as a performer.
Given how pivotal that role was, I'm curious—did you have any formal or informal training that helped shape your skills leading up to that moment?
Sam: I’ve been fortunate enough to train at so many different schools and studios across Brissie and the Gold Coast. I have tried to immerse myself in the performing arts world as much as possible, from dance classes, vocal lessons, acting masterclasses, and workshops covering every acting technique that I could think of. The saying ‘the more you learn, the more you realise you don’t know' is really true. I believe that strong foundational training and continuous learning are crucial for performers. We are so lucky in South-East Queensland to have an incredible wealth of experienced and fantastic teachers. I don’t think I’ll ever be done learning!
It’s clear you’ve really soaked up every bit of training and experience you could find. So, what’s on your plate right now? Are you working on any shows or projects at the moment?
Sam: I am currently in rehearsals for Guys & Dolls with Ipswich Musical Theatre Company, which is going really well! I will be playing the role of Sarah Brown, a devoted yet conservative sergeant at the Save-A-Soul Mission in 1950s New York City. Throughout the show, Sarah undergoes a journey discovering love, confronting the reality of her dreams, and navigating the good and bad that arises when people from different worlds collide. I have been so blessed with the creative team and cast on this one. Everyone involved is so kind, talented, and dedicated to ensuring that this production reaches its full potential. The performance is shaping up beautifully, with polished choreography, vocals, and scene work. I am so excited to see our finished set and hear our 18-piece orchestra perform for the first time. I cannot wait to open and for audiences to see what we have created!
I bet it’s going to be an amazing show! When you’re preparing for a new role like Sarah Brown, do you have any specific methods or routines you follow to get into character and bring a new role to life?
Sam: While I don't focus on specific details, I usually dive in researching the character's world extensively. Being a bit of a nerd, I enjoy doing that kind of character homework so that when I get into the rehearsal room, I have a solid starting point of who my character is and how they would respond within their given circumstances. I also just love exploring the text and uncovering new insights with my fellow actors and the creative team.
Speaking of roles, are there any particular types of roles or theatre styles that you find especially rewarding or challenging?
Sam: I am a sucker for anything comedic, big, and fun. Anything that’s going to get the audience cracking up or grooving in their seats – feeling the energy of the audience is so rewarding and brings me so much joy. I feel like Guys & Dolls will provide that experience for audiences. In terms of challenging, I have found that the vocal style required for this role has been a valuable learning opportunity for me. It is quite distinct from my previous work. I haven’t yet played a Golden-Age classic romantic lead like Sarah, and it’s been a real delight to bring my unique touch to the character.
When it comes to working with directors, fellow actors, and the production team, how do you approach collaboration? Can you share a memorable experience where the teamwork really stood out to you?
Sam: I think that in the rehearsal room, there are no bad ideas. I love throwing ideas into the mix and collaborating wherever I can, as I also aspire to direct in the future. Even if a suggestion doesn’t make the final cut, I think it’s great to hear everyone’s thoughts on a scene or song and to follow instincts when you feel them, as it all leads to finding the end outcome. I think what I appreciate most about community and independent theatre is the shared commitment from everyone involved to create the best possible show. That’s what I am finding working with Robbie Parkin at the moment. He is an incredibly receptive director and is willing to listen to his actors' input and try out their suggestions. I find this approach inspiring and hope to adopt it in my own directing endeavours one day.
Being open to all ideas really makes for a great creative environment. As you look back on your career, are there any moments or projects that make you especially proud?
Sam: Xanadu at Spotlight Theatre last year was an absolutely out-of-this-world experience. I portrayed Kira, a lead character who spends most of the show on roller-skates and has a parody Aussie accent (think Kath & Kim meets kiwi). It was a daunting challenge to learn how to roller-skate (and dance on them), especially for someone accident-prone like me. But as if the Greek gods shone their light on me, I was skating down the on-stage ramp while singing by opening night! The comedy of the show was just brilliant, thanks to our director Jamie Watt, who crafted a spectacular production. Not to mention, the music by ELO and Olivia Newton-John. I had the best time being part of that cast and team, and it pushed me to exceed beyond what I thought I was capable of. Winning a Gold Palm Award for that performance was a delightfully unexpected surprise and a true honour.
Wow, Xanadu sounds like such an incredible experience, I'm so sad I missed it! Looking ahead, what’s next on your wish list for your stage career?
Sam: I guess my ultimate goal is to turn acting/performing into my primary source of income one day. I would love to leave my current day job (sorry mum!) to focus entirely on my career in this field. Landing a contract or a steady performing gig would absolutely thrill me. I also just want to continue to improve my skills and become the best performer I can possibly be. Over the past few years, I have had some truly incredible opportunities, and I just want to continue to build upon that and keep entertaining audiences. Theatre brings me happiness, and I hope to remain a part of it for as long as possible.
That sounds like a dream worth chasing! For those who are aspiring to land a role in a stage show, what advice would you give them?
Sam: First and foremost, if you are in the financial position to do so, get yourself enrolled in classes. If not, take advantage of the abundance of online content available today, as that can be such a great starting point. Next, reach out to your local theatre and get involved with their next production in any way you can. Personally, I have learned so much over the years by working various roles such as backstage crew, wardrobe department, lighting, assisting directors, and being the best ‘second tree from the left’ that I could be. The entertainment industry is a unique and supportive community, so my advice is to immerse yourself in it in any way possible and don't let self-doubt get in your way.
Thank you so much for sharing your insights and experiences, Sam! Your passion and dedication to theatre really shine through.
Best of luck with Guys & Dolls—I can’t wait to see your performance as Sarah Brown!
For anyone interested in catching the show, tickets are available here: Guys & Dolls Tickets. The show runs from 7th to 15th September at the Ipswich Civic Centre. Chookas!
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