A Conversation With A West End Personality - Morgan Jackson
I am fortunate to have so many acquaintences and friends both in training and within the theatre industry Morgan Jackson is just one of them currently Ensemble in FAME UK Tour. When I approached Morgan with my questions he was more than happy to answer.
Musical or Pantomime?
Pantomimes are definitely fun, great for families and getting you in the Christmas spirit, but I'd still have to go with musicals.
List your theatre credits.
Seven Brides For Seven Brothers
Mamma Mia!
Oklahoma!
FAME
Where did you train?
I trained at a smaller performing arts college called SLP in a town called Garforth just outside Leeds.
Do you have any pre show rituals?
I'm not really a ritual person, The only show P did was in Oklahoma, all the Male ensemble got together in a huddle in the wing to lift each others energy before we made our entrance before the big number Kansas city.
What is your favourite part of Fame?
I literally do not have a favourite part, it changes constantly, such a talented cast and amazing direction/choreography by Nick Winston, makes it impossible to choose.
What is your favourite musical?
I love all the feel good musicals to be honest, Hairspray, Grease, Footloose, Newsies. But then I love the music to Next to Normal, and because its one of my favourite films ever i love catch me if you can.
What was the first musical you performed in? And how old were you?
The 2013 UK tour of Seven Brides for Seven brothers at the age of 19.
Do you have any guilty pleasures?
I love food. Particularly Dominos Pizza and cookie dough.
What do you do when you are off from a show?
I'm one extreme to the other. Either at the gym or in the pub
What is your proudest moment so far?
My proudest moment so far probably is still being able to perform the role of Gideon in seven brides infant of my family, it was a dream role of mine and one of my favourite movies growing up.
Dream part of the opposite sex?
I've never even thought about this, probably because I’ve seen it being played so much lately being in the show, Carmen Diaz in fame is a very challenging but rewarding part.
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
My biggest inspiration will always be my parents, they given everything they have into helping my career including my dad staging my talent show songs at 9 years old as my mum was making the costumes.
What advice would you give aspiring performers/auditions/recalls?
Probably, just try not to take things to personally with knock-backs, we all get many of them, but the right part eventually comes along.
Describe your fitness regime.
It changes from show to show really, and i always like to experiment with different things, Due to FAME being so heavily cardio based, i usually do weights 4-5 days a week focussing on a different muscle group each day.
If you could have your own musical/play who would you want to headline it?
Probably Aaron Tveit or Jeremy Jordan, anything they’re in I immediately love.
Describe yourself in three words.
Energetic. Passionate. Focused.
If you could pick your ultimate role to play what would it be?
Ren McCormick - Footloose. The ultimate Triple threat part.
What was the last production you saw
The last production I saw was the UK tour of Summer Holiday at the York Opera house watching some friends.
How would you describe the dance style of Fame?
Constantly moving, very creative and full out! Definitely need to build a lot of stamina for this show.
What does theatre mean to you?
Theatre is a great way for people to forget what is currently happening in their normal lives and just get completely lose themselves in great acting, music and dancing.
What is your favourite number in Fame and why?
I love ‘There she goes/Fame’ Led by the very talented Stephanie Rojas, the vocals and choreography can excite any audience.
How does Fame stand out in your opinion or compare to your previous shows?
Fame is a musical i performed in my third year at college and since then I knew if a production came out I would 100% want to be in it. The direction and choreography definitely didn’t disappoint and every performer on that stage Role or Ensemble is shown off at some point.
How would you describe Fame and your character?
It's just a musical that touches a lot of subjects that everyone can at least relate to one. I'm in the ensemble, but my character is very dance and athletically based constantly flipping around.
Do you have any upcoming projects following Fame?
Currently I'm booked up until December so I’ve not even thought about anything else yet.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Probably to just always give 100% to everything you do, if not whats the point, always try to be the best at everything you do, even if your not, people will see that you want to be and thats what counts.
Social
Instagram: @MorganJackson2405
Twitter: @MorganJ1994
