Her.ie Chats To Soap Actress Turned Musical Theatre Star Vicky Binns

Vicky Binns has starred in two popular soaps, Emmerdale and Coronation Street, but this year she is turning her hand to the world of musical theatre. This month the actress will be taking to the stage in the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre as Lena Lamont in Singin’ In The Rain. A few weeks ago, we spoke to Vicky about what it's like being in a musical which she described as “spectacular, glamorous and toe-tapping.”                                                                  Here’s what she had to say on... The Role Of Lena Lamont I’ve never done a musical and I’ve never thought of myself as a musical theatre actor, mainly because I’m not a singer or a dancer and I’ve never trained in that area. So when my agent rang about going in for the audition, I thought I can’t do that because I can’t sing or dance. But then obviously the character of Lena Lamont can’t sing or dance so I thought this is the role for me in a musical. The Show Itself I went to see the show in the West End and it just blew me away. It was incredible and I don’t think I was the only one in the audience who left the theatre tap-dancing. It just grabbed me and as soon as it opened, I thought I’d love to be in this show. It’s just so bold and so much fun. All the characters are huge and the production value of the show is incredible. It’s something that I’ve never imagined being a part of. Vicky rose to fame playing Molly in Coronation Street. Her Favourite Number I love Make 'Em Laugh which is Cosmo’s song. He does his own number and I absolutely love it! I remember watching the film and thinking how can you do that on stage? But, as I saw at the show, you can and it works fantastically. The Film D’you know, I don’t think I’ve ever properly seen it but I knew it and the Singin’ In The Rain dance, but I don’t think I’ve sat down and watched the entire film. It’s one of those things that’s always on. I think it’s because it’s not quite in my generation but it’s been a real treat getting to know the film. I think the show is a great interpretation of the film so everyone who is a huge fan and is precious about it won’t be disappointed. Now she is turning her hand to musical theatre. The Pressure To be honest I don’t think I’m feeling as much pressure as I would had this been a brand new show. I have complete trust in the directors and the rest of the team. I feel completely confident within this particular show. There will always be comparisons to the film but because it’s a great musical and people love it, I kind of feel lucky and just want to do my best within that. Theatre Versus Television There’s just such a huge difference between theatre and television. The audience is a huge part of the show and they always take on a personality of their own, be it energetic or concentrated. They bring their own element to the show and you have to be open to anything happening, particularly in Ireland. Singin’ In The Rain will be at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre from Tuesday April 20th to Saturday May 31st. Tickets are on sale now.