A Quick Chat With Michael Cormick

Blood Brothers is on its way to the Hayes, with its first preview performance scheduled for tonight. We asked cast member Michael Cormick our 20 questions to find out more about his career, Blood Brothers, and where he stands on theatre superstitions.

Describe yourself and your occupation like you would to an alien who knew nothing about Earth.

I am a creative energy who dresses up, takes on another persona , and re tells dramatic scenarios to evoke an emotional response.

Now describe yourself and your occupation like you would to a regular person.

Refer to the previous answer.

What has been your most memorable night in the theatre as an audience member?

Watching Beauty and the Beast in New York when I had been cast in the role (of the Beast) for Australia. I was soooo excited and the transformation blew my mind.

How about as a performer?

I am so lucky to have had many, but one that comes to mind is my opening night in Evita, playing Che Guevara in an amphitheater in Beirut. The opening number is a funeral staged with umbrellas and as we stepped out on stage it rained, just long enough to create a magic. We were blessed by the Gods!

What’s your best/worst onstage mishap?

Having Christine’s [Sarah Brightman’s] wig attach to my jacket during a lift in Phantom of the Opera. It literally left her head!

Do you believe in theatre superstitions? If so, which ones?

Absolutely! Never whistle in a dressing room. Never mention “you know who” in a dressing room. Never work with animals or children. I’ve done ’em all!

What’s your go-to karaoke song?

Don’t have one. But if I did it would be….. something Tom Jonesish

What excites you about musical theatre in Sydney?

The fact that we are starting to create more of a fringe scene here now excites me. The Hayes Theatre Co is a perfect example.

What frustrates you about musical theatre in Sydney?

Lets not get into that….

What’s your favourite post-show snack?

Red or White?

Which TV show are you obsessed with right now?

None. I’m far too busy learning scripts. Honestly!

What was the last live performance (musical, play, cabaret, concert, etc) that you saw and loved?

Paul Capsis in Little Bird. Amazing!

What’s your dream role? (You can cast yourself against type)

I would love to play Sweeney in Sweeney Todd.

If you could transport anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?

NYC

What was the best piece of advice you have ever received?

Be yourself.

What was the worst piece of advice you have ever received?

Don’t go into Showbiz.

When did you first discover Blood Brothers?

I was living in London in the early nineties, and went to see it with a friend of mine. I remember not being able to speak for at least 15 minutes after the show. I was so emotionally involved.

What has the experience of working on it been like?

I can honestly say that this has been one of my favourite experiences ever. Our Producer, Director, Technical staff and cast are all extraordinary talents.

What’s your current favourite part of the show?

I’m not sure that I have a favourite scene, as this show has so many wonderful moments. The final 15 minutes of the show are an extraordinary conclusion to an incredibly well crafted piece.

When and where can we catch Blood Brothers?

The Hayes Theatre Company in Potts Point from 6 Feb until 15 March.

Visit bloodbrothersthemusical.com.au for ticket information – a VERY limited allocation remains for each performance! Get in quick!