Sabrina Aloueche stars in the brand-new production of NHS The Musical by Nick Stimson and Jimmy Jewell, opening at The Lyric at Theatre Royal Plymouth.
With a combined company of 7 cast and 7 band members live on stage, NHS The Musical will be a rousing celebration of the people who have cared for us and our families for more than 70 years.
NHS The Musical runs 17 – 25 September in The Lyric at Theatre Royal Plymouth, with discounted tickets available across the run for NHS staff. More details can be found here.
You’re appearing in NHS the Musical, what can you tell us about it?
It’s based on real life accounts from nurses and doctors working in the NHS. The show is shown through the eyes of one central protagonist who takes you on a through the keyhole style journey introducing you to various characters, from doctors through to patients, and even the current political leaders too!
There are hilarious moments, heart-breaking ones, there’s chaos and stillness. The songs are all incredibly exciting and intricate, and it truly is story telling at its best.
What surprised you the most about the story, given that it’s informed by first-hand accounts?
As a “patient” which is something we have all and will all be at some stage of our lives, you really don’t give much thought about the lives and feelings and emotions of the doctors and nurses fixing us.
The comedic relief they provide each other, the stories they carry around with them on a day-to-day basis, how they interact with each other, do they ever take a break? This show really does give you a feeling of recognition as you begin to realise, they are just human beings, getting through as best they can.
Tell us more about your character in the show?
There are a few, as it truly is an ensemble piece, and we’re all there to help each other through various scenes, but my main role is the Politician. She’s basically exactly what you imagine her to be! Although I have added a sassier element! She enjoys a knees up and the choreography is quick and slick throughout the show, however most of the time I do feel a little like Margaret Thatcher drunk at the 10 Downing St Christmas party….!
How would you describe the music in NHS The Musical?
Intricate, exciting, beautiful; it’s storytelling at its finest. From ballads, to gospel, to Jazz! There’s no running melodic theme and all songs are original as they are dynamic and honestly, they’ve been so much fun to work on!
How have you been getting to know your fellow castmates?
Anyone who’s worked so closely with a small cast, especially away from home will know how quickly you become a little show family.
This cast is exceptional. We’ve Peter Caulfield who by week 2 has firmly established himself as the Stagey/showbiz element we never knew we needed! Jimmy Johnston, who has us all in stitches most days, as does Neil Stewart. Jordan Castle who has the most infectious laugh, and doesn’t miss a single thing! You could make the smallest mistake in a scene, and no one would notice and you’d turn and see Jordan doubled over laughing!
Alice Frankham is literally an angel! Our very own “Julie Andrew’s”! And Justina Kehinde who is always on the ball more so than anyone including our directors! If we need anything answering we head to her first!!! Everyone is wonderful and I’m proud to be a part of this company!
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to see NHS The Musical?
It’s unlike anything you’ve seen before! I’ve said this a few times but it truly is story telling at its finest!
It has some very sad and dark moments as anyone would expect a show of this style would, but it also has incredibly hilarious moments of old school humour and songs you’ll struggle to get out of your head as you leave the theatre! I can promise you’ll love every moment!
