Since leaving HOLBY CITY in September 2006, Kelly’s acting work has led her to Budapest to film a guest role in BBC’s ‘Robin Hood’ and is currently about to embark on a theatre production of ‘Our Man in Havana’ which is due to perform in Bromley, Guildford and Windsor from August. Kindly Kelly to time our to chat to holby.tv about her latest theatre role…
You’re appearing in a theatre production of ‘Our Man in Havana’ – what attracted you to the role?
I am playing eight different roles and it is a comedy which is what attracted me to the play. Everything from an Irish salesman to a stripper!
What can you tell us about the play and it’s story?
It is adapted from to book of the same title by Graeme Greene set in 1958 Cuba. It follows a vacuum cleaner salesman as he is caught in the world of political spies.
What character do you play and how would you describe her?
I play a British spy and a spoilt daughter mainly with lots of other characters thrown in. They are all larger than life which is a break from the naturalism of television.
Are you exicted about appearing in stage having been a regular on TV for the last three years? How does TV/ theatre compare and differ and do you have a preference?
I am excited about returning to the stage. Theatre and TV are two completely different disciplines. I actually prefer camera acting. There can be a snobbery surrounding theatre implying that it is superior but I find acting for camera far more challenging.
The play also stars Simon Shepherd, Clive Francis and former CASUALTY star Russell Boulter. What have the other cast in the play been like to work with so far?
I am the only female so that is always nice. Clive Francis has adapted the book and has a very clear vision for the play. The guys are constantly asking questions and bringing great ideas. It is a challenge to keep up with them.
What was your first ever stage role?
I played Belinda Cratchett in A Christmas Carl at the Bloomsbury Theatre in London. It wasn’t the greatest.
Do you enjoy going to the theatre yourself?
I rarely go to the theatre. It is too expensive, the same stuff stays on for years and it makes me too angry. Occasionally you find a gem but it is almost always off West End.
What would be your dream theatre role?
All of Shakespeare’s leading women are great obviously. I played Sally Boules in Caberet at Drama School. She is so different from me, I loved it. I love the women of Tennesse Williams too.
It’s been nearly a year since you left HOLBY CITY, do you miss working on the show?
I loved working there but I wouldn’t say that I missed it especially not the journey to and from the studios. I still get fan mail though about Mickie which is lovely.
