Jack Gardner plays Philippe as The Menier Chocolate Factory is set to revive the beloved musical The Baker’s Wife, featuring music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and a book by Joseph Stein.
This production, directed by Gordon Greenberg, promises to bring the charm of a provincial French village to life. The musical, based on the 1938 French film La Femme du Boulanger, runs from 6 July to 14 September 2024, with a press night on 17 July.
You’re appearing in The Baker’s Wife at the Menier Chocolate Factory; what can you tell us about the show?
The Baker’s Wife is about a bunch of bickering residents awaiting the arrival of a new baker called Aimable and his young wife Genevieve, after having been without bread for seven weeks. However, when Genevieve catches the eye of handsome Dominique we find what happens to the baker’s relationship and the relationships within the village.
The Baker’s Wife is one of those shows that everybody can relate to in some way. It deals with themes such as love, community, forgiveness, and lots of bread! The set design by Paul Farnsworth is absolutely fantastic and deeply thought out. He has bought the Chocolate Factory to life allowing you to feel as if you are stepping into a French village and almost eavesdropping on our every conversation.
Can you describe your character Philippe and his role in the story?
My character Philippe is around 18 years old. He is the best friend of the village heartthrob Dominique who is like an older brother to him. Philippe has the crucial role of unfolding the drama, acting as a messenger throughout the story. He has been a really fun character to explore and play around with throughout the process.
How has it been working with the director Gordon Greenberg and the rest of the cast?
Working with Gordon Greenberg has been so wonderful! Considering this is my first musical I am so lucky I had the chance to work with him. He is patient and has a unique way of connecting with his actors. He gives everybody the freedom to play when workshopping scenes and has such a beautiful vision with what he wanted this show to look like.
Every person in this cast is oozing with talent. Having the chance to go to work every day with people who inspire you is a really special thing. We all get along like a big family and being part of such a strong united dynamic in a rehearsal room is definitely a huge favour when it comes to the end product.
What has been the most challenging aspect of preparing for this role?
The most challenging aspect of my role has been grasping the French chords and style on the guitar. Although I am a confident guitarist, I have found it challenging throughout the process to finger pick my way through songs, as well as moving around and singing harmonies. I think we got through about 4 guitars in order to find the correct sound, however the one we decided on has such an organic feel and really suits the style of the show.
I have loved challenging myself and exploring this new style on guitar with the help of the wonderful Stuart Morley. On the first day when Stephen Schwartz arrived, I sat next to him and played the opening number ‘chanson’ which was quite a surreal and special moment.
The Baker’s Wife features music by Stephen Schwartz. Do you have a favourite song from the show?
My favourite song from the show would have to be ‘Gifts of love’ sung by Lucie jones. The lyrics are very touching and I really love the melody. Every time she sings it, my hairs stand up. There are a lot of great songs in this show such as the famous ‘Meadowlark’, as well as my duet with Dominique ‘Serenade’, of which I really enjoy singing and playing on the guitar.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see The Baker’s Wife?
Book your tickets as soon as you can as this will be the first time the production has been revived in the UK since its 1989 premiere. It’s a brand new version that no one has seen before, therefore it’s not one to be missed.
