Interview: Jacob Fowler on Rodger’s + Hammerstein’s Cinderella at Hope Mill Theatre

Jacob Fowler stars as Prince Topher in the UK theatrical premiere of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, opening at Hope Mill Theatre in Manchester in November.

Leading the creative team for this new production are venue founders Joseph Houston and William Whelton, with Houston directing and Whelton co-directing and choreographing.

Jacob Fowler stars alongside Grace Mouat who plays Ella in the production which runs at Manchester’s Hope Mill Theatre Tuesday 1st November – Sunday 11th December 2022.

You’re starring in Rodger’s + Hammerstein’s Cinderella at Hope Mill Theatre, what can you tell us about the show?

There are countless versions of Cinderella but I feel like this particular one combines the best aspects of them all, into one. The timeless music of Rodgers & Hammerstein matched against a hilarious modern script by Douglas Carter Beane is a perfect combination for a 21st century musical.

It might be a little different to the Cinderella’s that people are familiar with, what is it that makes this one so special?

Like a lot of art does, Cinderella touches on political and social issues of the past. However, they couldn’t be more relevant to today’s society. They’re not a crucial point of the plot, but by the end of the show they hit you a little and make you think.

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Tell us a little about your character, Prince Topher, and what you love most about the character?

I think I’d want to be Prince Topher in real life! He can be ‘charming’ when he needs to be and can step up and take charge, but he also has a heart and fights for what is right, no matter how others tell him to act. He’s a bit goofy, sometimes naïve but only ever wants the best for everyone in his kingdom.

And what do you think will be the biggest challenge for you with this role?

I think sometimes when characters don’t have any kind of ‘bad’ streak or motive, I find them harder to play. ‘How could anybody be so nice? This is impossible!’. You can fall into a trap of becoming ‘wet’! But I think, because of the incredible script by Douglas Carter Beane, I’ll be just fine!

What are you most looking forward to about working at Manchester’s Hope Mill Theatre?

Every time I tell someone I’m doing a show at the Hope Mill they say ‘Oh, have you been before? You’re going to love it!’. It’s got quite a prestigious feeling to it so I’m very honoured to be performing there; not least a Rodgers & Hammerstein show!

What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Rodger’s + Hammerstein’s Cinderella?

DO IT! The cast are immense – especially the ensemble who keep the whole show mesmerising whenever they step on stage. The design aspect of the show is also going to blow your socks off. Something so fresh and new and yet so timeless and classy.