She’s starred in We Will Rock You and most famously as Elphaba in Wicked. This weekend, Rachel Tucker takes to the stage at G-A-Y…
You’ve starred in some of the biggest stage productions in the world. What’s been your favourite and why?
Definitely Wicked! Wicked has a magic about it that is ageless and timeless. It’s a classic story that affects and touches everyone who sees it. A truly special show, which will always hold a special place in my heart!
How did you make it through over 1,000 performances and still keep it fresh every time?
Its part of my job! I must keep it as fresh and as new as I possibly can. It’s not fair when a person who’s waited a long time and spent a lot of money to see this top notch show, comes along and watches someone who looks uninterested and tired of doing their job. It’s not good practice and I for one make it my job that this must never happens. Otherwise it takes away the magic of theatre. We are there to suspend the audience’s disbelief and take them away from their day for just a few hours.
The album’s a compilation of songs you’ve performed throughout your career – what’s your favourite track off your new album?
I’m most proud of the production on ‘Defying Gravity’ because it stays true to what I loved so dearly about when I sang it at Wicked, but with a fresh feel and slant to it.
What are you most looking forward to about performing at G-A-Y?
I saw Geri Haliwell perform here when I was a teenager on a crazy weekend. We had such a great night and it was such a brilliant atmosphere! I look forward to being part of that again only this time, from the stage, seeing the audience in all their glory!
You’re used to performing to big crowds. How do you think G-A-Y will differ?
I’m a bit of an audience junky! I love a big, loud audience that wants to get involved. Theatre audiences are taught to behave in a way that suits the show, so most shows want you to sit, enjoy and clap at the right times, but I know G-A-Y audiences will be wanting to be part of the action, and knowing me, I will want to give it to them, that’s where the buzz comes from. It’s an electric feeling and I cant fookin’ wait!
• Rachel Tucker is at G-A-Y @ Heaven (Villiers Street, Charing Cross, WC2N 6NG) on Saturday 24th August, 10.30pm-5am. £3 wristband available from G-A-Y Bar.
