Summer Holiday
Churchill Theatre, Bromley
Tue 5 – Sat 9 June
Ray Quinn stars as Don in Summer Holiday The Musical, a role originally brought to life by Cliff Richard in the iconic 1960’s film.
Hi Ray, tell us, how does it feel to be the lead part in such a well-known production?
It feels amazing. It is all singing, all dancing; it is a big ask and Cliff Richard is a big act to follow. He is one of my favourite artists. I’ve got some big shoes to fill but I am really excited!
What drew you to the part?
The fact that it is fun and so iconic. The first thing I did when I got told I had the part was to watch the movie. There was a real innocence back then and I really like that.
Tell us about the rehearsals…
I started rehearsals while on tour with Dancing on Ice so it was full-on. I knew the choreographer and director Racky Plews before I started. She is so creative and agile and it was amazing as she listened to me and took on some of my ideas. I really wanted to create a new Don, not replicate the Cliff Richard or Darren Day versions.
Tell us about your most memorable holiday…
There are two – one was a holiday romance in North Wales and another was a gig I did in Ibiza; me and the boys went over and stayed for five days, enjoying fun in the sun!
Name three items you couldn’t live without on your summer holiday.
Shorts and sandals for the beach and a pair of headphones for my music. I like to line upswing music for chilling out in the daytime and dance tunes and R&B for when I am getting ready to go out.
People know you for various things: your role as Anthony Murray in Brookside, your work in musicals, for appearing on TV shows such as Get Your Act Together, making it to the final of X Factor and most recently starring in Dancing on Ice. What has been your favourite job to date and why?
Probably playing Danny in Grease. It ticked all the boxes. I was 21 and playing Danny Zuko in the West End, it doesn’t get much better than that!
What was your favourite part of the Dancing on Ice?
It doesn’t get better than playing to a live audience. I have been skating on and off for ten years now and I really enjoy it. There just isn’t much need for it, so I think it was probably the last time I will skate unless a role needs it.
You got into acting at such a young age, how did that come about?
I had a really good agent at the time and she asked if I wanted to attend an open audition and I got it! I have been really lucky but I have also put in a lot of hard work and dedication.
What do you enjoy most/least about touring?
I like performing in front of a different crowd each night and getting to see different cities. Musical theatre shows are often based at a theatre for a week so we get some time to look around. The worst thing about being on tour is being away from my family and home.
One last question. What is your message to anyone who hasn’t yet bought tickets?
Go and buy them!! You will not be disappointed. It is a great, feel-good musical that will offer some escapism.
Summer Holiday
Bromley’s Churchill Theatre
Tue 5 – Sat 9 June
churchilltheatre.co.uk
Book now
Tickets £29.50 – £39.50. Under 18s £10 off Thu and Fri. Concessions £2.00 off Tue – Thu. Premium seats and meal deal available.
Call our Box Office on 020 3285 6000 or visit our website churchilltheatre.co.uk