Andrew Coshan is currently dazzling audiences as William in the world premiere of A Knight’s Tale, the stage adaptation of the beloved 2001 film. Speaking from Manchester Opera House, where the production just opened in previews, Coshan shared insights into his journey to this dream role, the creative process, and the excitement of bringing this medieval sports tale to life.
“I’ve always been a little dancer,” Andrew begins, reflecting on his early years growing up in Auckland, New Zealand. “There’s a video of me dancing in the living room at age four because it was Christmas and we got the new Five CD. I’ve just always known I loved performing.” Despite his natural flair for dance, Andrew didn’t venture into musical theatre until high school. Andrew’s first audition for Fiddler on the Roof was nearly derailed by nerves. “I was too scared to sing,” he admits. “The head of drama had to organise a special audition with other people singing alongside me so I wouldn’t be too terrified.”
Andrew eventually caught the performing bug and pursued a degree in performing arts and theatre studies at Otago University. After honing his craft in amateur musicals and completing training at the prestigious Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAPA), he worked extensively in Australian theatre before deciding to make the leap to London. “I always knew I needed to come over to London and give it a go,” he explains, “My mum is originally from England, so I’ve always wanted to come.”
The move proved fortuitous. Within weeks of arriving in June last year, Andrew landed a role at the Young Vic Theatre in A Face in the Crowd. Shortly after, auditions for A Knight’s Tale began, leading him to secure the coveted role of William. “When I saw it was coming, I was so excited because this is one of my favourite movies,” he says enthusiastically. “I’ve watched the film so many times—I know all the lines!”
Taking on a role famously played by Heath Ledger comes with its own challenges and joys. “For me, William Thatcher will always be Heath,” Andrew acknowledges. “It’s such a joy to take pieces of his performance and pay homage while making it my own. Our version is more theatrical and heightened—it’s fitted so well to stage versus screen.”
The adaptation transforms the medieval sports film into a jukebox musical featuring iconic rock anthems like Queen’s ‘We Will Rock You’ and Bonnie Tyler’s ‘Holding Out for a Hero’. “It’s described as a medieval sports film—a classic underdog tale set in medieval times with stadium rock anthems,” Andrew explains. The story follows William, a peasant who dreams of becoming a jousting champion despite societal restrictions that only allow nobles to compete. “He pretends to be a noble so he can compete and win money for his team, who don’t even have enough food at first.”
One of the production’s most intriguing challenges has been staging jousting scenes within the confines of a theatre. “Real jousting happens over 200 metres with galloping horses—how do you do that on a 10-metre-wide stage?” Andrew laughs. Having been sworn to secrecy he promises audiences will witness “incredible sights you won’t see anywhere else on a stage.”
The costumes have also been a revelation for Andrew. Initially expecting designs similar to those in the film, he was surprised by the production’s bold vision. “Our designer has created period costumes that make you feel like a rock god because you’re singing these iconic songs,” he shares. “When we’re all on stage together, it looks incredible—I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Andrew is particularly thrilled about performing ‘Holding Out for a Hero’, which accompanies pivotal jousting scenes in the show. “It’s fast-paced and exciting—I’m on the horse for most of it!” He also praises Matt Cole’s choreography as “extraordinary” and highlights the ensemble dancers as some of the hardest-working performers he’s ever worked with.
Reflecting on his experience working at Manchester Opera House, Andrew marvels at how even their costume colours—green and gold—seem perfectly matched with the venue’s decor. “The carpet, walls, seats—it looks like we designed it all together!”
Discussing his love for auditions now compared to earlier years, Andrew shares: “I find it funny because I love auditioning now—a good in person audition is the best.” He contrasts this with those initial fears: “Walking into a room with experts judging you was horrifying back then.”
As rehearsals continue, Andrew hopes audiences will embrace A Knight’s Tale as much as he has: “This show has something for everyone—sports fans, musical lovers, sword fighting enthusiasts, rock music fans—it’s got it all.” For Andrew, stepping into William’s shoes has been nothing short of transformative: “It feels like such an honour and privilege to bring this character back to life.”
With its mix of medieval intrigue, rock-and-roll energy, and heartfelt storytelling, A Knight’s Tale promises to be a real audience pleaser—and Andrew Coshan is ready to lead audiences into battle with charm and charisma aplenty.
A Knight’s Tale, starring Andrew Coshan, is currently booking at Manchester Opera House until May 10, tickets and listing information can be found here.
