What’s Murder at Midnight all about?
It’s a thrilling and witty mystery, set in a mansion in Kent. I don’t want to give too much away, but I can say it’s bonkers in the best sort of way. If people want drama, comedy, thrills, and some emotion too, it’s all there. It’s written by the brilliant Torben Betts and directed by Philip Franks for Original Theatre, who I’ve always wanted to work with.
Tell us about your character
Lisa is the girlfriend of Jonny the Cyclops, a drugs baron who owns the mansion. She’s quite misunderstood and underestimated. She’s got a childlike energy about her, she’s quite unpredictable, and she’s got lots of layers, so she’s really interesting to play. I can really empathise with her because she’s always wanted to be an actress but never quite made it.
Did you always want to act?
My mum took me to a drama club when I was about seven, because I was really shy. Within a week I was up on stage playing a main character, and my parents couldn’t believe it. Since then I’ve always been in love with acting, and it was always my hobby, so I was really lucky to be able to turn it into a long-term career and earn a living from my biggest passion.
It’s interesting you say you were shy, because a lot of people think actors are extroverts
I know a lot of actors who are shy. I think that’s why we like putting on someone else’s character, it’s like a kind of protection. I’m not so shy these days, but I’ve never lost the confidence boost I get from acting. I’d always encourage parents to take their kids to drama lessons, because you never know what might happen.
Who is your acting hero?
I have to say Sarah Lancashire, because every time I watch her in something I think she’s untouchable. If I could have just a fraction of her career, I’d be very happy.
You got your first break at just 16, in Jimmy McGovern’s series Moving On. Was that daunting?
It was, because none of my family are in the industry, so we didn’t really know anything about it. We just went along and rolled with it as each job came in. On that first show I actually auditioned for a smaller part, but the casting director Michelle Smith asked me to read for the bigger one. It all stemmed from there really, so I have a lot to thank her for.
What impact did being on Coronation Street have on you?
It was one of the best times of my life and my biggest achievement. Being part of that show was such an honour, and I still pinch myself. I also learnt so much, and made friends for life. It’s like being part of a big family, and it’s a lovely place to work. I’ve been enjoying chatting to Susie Blake, who’s also in Murder at Midnight, about her experiences in Corrie.
Your character Sinead had a very emotional death from cancer. Do people still talk to you about it?
Years later, I still get stopped in the street and sent messages about it. It was a lot bigger than we anticipated it would be, and I’m really proud and grateful that Corrie gave me that story to portray. I’m really glad that we helped raise awareness about the importance of smear tests in particular. It was incredible to read that numbers went up significantly after the episodes went out. That was the greatest reward of all for me, knowing that what we did helped save lives.
After so many years on screen, are you enjoying treading the boards?
I love it. It’s very different to TV, because you get that atmosphere with a live audience. It’s great to get that instant reaction, and no two nights are the same. When I made my professional stage debut a couple of years ago in Wish You Were Dead I was unbelievably nervous, but I fell in love with it and really wanted to do it again. I love the thrill, and I also love playing the story in order, which doesn’t generally happen on screen.
Murder at Midnight is embarking on an extensive UK tour – are you looking forward to exploring different parts of the country?
I love that aspect of touring, it’s a great way to uncover some hidden gems in places you might not otherwise get to visit. Also the cast is great fun, a really lovely group. We’ve been having such a laugh in rehearsals so I’m sure that will continue on our travels across the country.
How do you unwind away from work?
I love walking, I’m always outside and love being in nature. So I’ll be doing plenty of that when we’re out on tour. Besides that I also love cooking and yoga – I’m pretty boring really and just enjoy the simple things!
Any dream future roles?
I’d love to play a lead in a gritty TV drama, but maybe someone unexpected like a murderer! Also, ever since Strictly I reckon playing Cruella on stage would be really fun. But generally in my career I just go with the flow. I love the versatility and unpredictability of this job and the variety of roles you come across, Murder at Midnight being a great example. And one day I’d like to try directing and writing, and experience the creative process from another side.