I like to move it, move it
X Factor winner Matt Terry stars as Alex the Lion in the UK tour of Madagascar the Musical
Q: Tell us a little bit about taking on the role of Alex in Madagascar the Musical – are you having a good time?
A: I’m having such an amazing time touring in Madagascar the Musical, the audiences have been fantastic and I’m so excited to be staying with the company to tour into 2019.
The show brings together everything you will know and love from the Dreamworks film with an immense score and amazing sets, costumes and puppets.
It’s an awesome night out for the whole family.
Q: Do you have any past experience in musical theatre, or is this your debut?
A: I trained in theatre for three years before X Factor so I learnt everything I needed to know whilst I was there.
It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, so I’m glad I have the opportunity.
Q: What do you believe is the success of Madagascar the Musical?
A: I think that the franchise itself is pretty amazing.
Everyone knows the characters and loves them, and knows the story. There’s something in it for everyone.
I also love how Selladoor (theatre company) has been able to take the much-loved movie version and reimagine this for the stage as a great reflection of the movie. The cast is also brilliant. They are so talented.
Q: What have you learnt from X Factor that you’re able to apply to your time in Madagascar?
A: I think that after doing this show I no longer feel nervous. It’s a huge platform and a monster of a show. If you can get through that, you can get through anything.
Q: Are there any pre-show rituals/ routines you go through before getting into character?
A: Getting into costume itself prepares you for it. I have a big mane and a massive body suit so I feel like a lion already.
Having been in the show for sometime now I feel I know Alex well – there is a bit of me in him and I can get into character quite easily
Q: What’s the appeal of Madagascar to adults and to child?
A: It’s definitely one for the whole family to enjoy. There are parts of the script that adults will understand and the kids won’t and vice versa. It’s a feel good show and everyone enjoys it massively.
Everyone is up on their feet for the end of the show.
Q: As a performer in general, where do you get your inspiration from?
A: I tend to use my emotions to perform. Whatever I’m feeling, I use it to give my best performance.
Q: Can you talk a bit about the importance of the arts, the theatre community and what you see this production bringing to that society?
A: It’s so great to bring everybody together. All kinds of humans. It’s the same as music. It brings people together and it’s something we can all enjoy.
Q: Tell us a bit about your character and position within the story of Madagascar.
A: Alex is definitely very comfortable living the pampered life, so I feel like he suffers the most when they find themselves in Madagascar.
His instincts start to take over and he becomes one with the wild.
But at the end, they all come together as a team and the love he feels for his friends overrides his instincts.
■ Madagascar the Musical is at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff from Tuesday to Saturday.
■ Call the box office on 029 2063 6464 or visit www.wmc.org.uk