Q & A with Carl Lovejoy
Brighton Theatre Group
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
Carl Lovejoy is playing Caraticus Potts in Brighton Theatre Group’s upcoming production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
Where are you from?
I was born in Greenford but since 2005 Brighton has been my home and if I have any say it will be for a long time to come.
How long have you been a part of Brighton Theatre Group, and how did you find out about them?
I first joined BTG Youth in 2011 for their production of Joseph and his Technicolor Dreamcoat. I found out about Brighton Theatre Group from family who had seen their shows and having fallen in love with Musical Theatre a few years before hand I was quick to get involved and was instantly amazed by the creative energies and grateful for the incredible opportunities.
When did you first realise you had a talent for the performing arts, and who encouraged you?
You think I have talent?! I started singing lessons when I was 11, singing is what drew me in to performing. I think it’s such a powerful from of expressionism and music can convey stories and emotion when all words fail. My family have always encouraged me and my mum has been instrumental in me being able to do this. She drove me to countless rehearsals growing up and has always shown immense support. There’s a long list of people to thank I wish I could get through them all.
What was your first major role in a production, and/or is there a role you’ve played that has a special significance to you?
My first major role in a musical was when I was thirteen, playing Gavroche in Les Mis. I remember distinctly how truly gobsmacked and blown away I was to hear I’d gotten the part as I never thought I’d get such an opportunity and was so touched that they put their trust in me to do so. A role I’ve played that has great significance must be either Willy Wonka with BTG or Jesus in Godspell as my final show before graduating from The Brighton Academy. Both incredible characters with immense depth and such wildly creative experiences with the best teams.
How has the rehearsal process been so far?
Incredible to put it lightly. There’s fewer places more full of fun and talent than a BTG rehearsal. Putting the show together is always such an exciting experience! Caractacus brings a lot to the table I’ve not done before. It’s my first time playing a father which was a bit nerve-wracking at first but having as good Jeremy and Jemimah as we do, I’ve loved it! Seeing all the wonderful aspects the cast bring to their character’s and they fun they have with it is inspirational!
What’s your favourite thing about playing your character?
I’m grateful to be able to work with more or less everyone in the show! I get opportunities to gel with and bounce of loads of amazing actors and find great moments. And getting to play with all the Toys, whether Chitty herself, the breakfast making machine or the Spiffing Automatic Haircut machine!!
Brighton Theatre Group brings together people of all ages and walks of life — what’s it like working with such a variety of performers?
What it’s all about! The incredible people here are what makes it! it’s constant inspiration every rehearsal and finding the chemistry with other actors is what makes me a better performer! Once we’re all in the rehearsal room together it comes to life and when performers bounce of each other and have as much fun as we have it always creates a fun, vibrant show!
Have you visited (or performed at) Theatre Royal Brighton before?
Luckily so! I have seen lots of shows there and been fortunate enough to perform there in BTG’s last two shows, playing Willy Wonka in “Charlie and The Chocolate Factory” and Thénadier in “Les Miserables”.
What are you most looking forward to about performing at Theatre Royal Brighton?
The space itself, it’s a wonderfully spacious backstage and the staff are always amazing and welcoming! It’s humbling to know how many other stars have performed there as well and the take in the rich history it holds!
Why should people come and see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in Brighton?
Because it’s going to be the best show you’ve ever seen! Dazzling light’s, striking sets and Impeccable costumes. We have the most committed production team who have spared no expense and devoted everything to this show! We’ve had too much fun doing this show for it not to be contagious.