Tom is making sense of the post-9/11 world through the medium of Green Day
Hardcore Green Day fans have been rocking in the aisles thanks to Amercian Idiot. TAZ USHER meets star Tom Milner to find out more
APOPULAR musical which tells the tale of a trio of men on a journey of self-discovery is currently being performed at The Hexagon.
And one of its cast members, Tom Milner, feels that Green Day’s American Idiot will strike a chord with fans of musical theatre and the American rock band.
American Idiot tells the tale of three childhood friends searching for meaning beyond their suburban lifestyles in post-9/11 America.
It is currently a winner of two Tony Awards and Grammy for Best Musical Show Album.
Now, the former Waterloo Road star and The Voice contestant who says he “grew up with Green Day”, is pursuing his interest in the band in this explosive rock musical where he plays Johnny.
The show celebrates its tenth anniversary this year, but for Tom it is his first time working on a touring musical.
Reflecting on audience reaction so far, Tom says: “It has been amazing. We’ve had hardcore Green Day fans rocking up wearing all sorts of band merchandise; the jackets, the hats, the tops – you name it.”
Cast members are currently in Milton Keynes before travelling to Reading next Tuesday.
Having visited the town a few times, Tom says: “I’ve been to The Hexagon before so I’m looking forward to performing on its stage”.
Tom’s describes his character as “a wacky guy who hasn’t had much experience of life but is ready to take on the world. Johnny is the complete opposite to me but he’s a lot of fun to play.”
The performer’s favourite song of the show is Holiday which is sung by the majority of the cast.
Tom also performs a variety of solos including Green Day’s renowned track Boulevard of Broken Dreams.
The touring life is providing
Tom with a taste of stages across the country and the opportunity to build friendships with cast members including X Factor’s Luke Friend and Sam Lavery.
And the production excites him: “Anyone who has a passion for this music and wants to feel energised, this is a show which you have to come and see.
“We literally perform the American Idiot album top to bottom.”
Green Day’s tenth anniversary American Idiot tour is being performed at The Hexagon Theatre, Reading until Saturday. The show is suitable for ages 14 upwards. Tickets start at £29.50. For more details, or to book, call 0118 960 6060 or log on to www. readingarts.com