The Fame Reporter featuring Ellen Goddard
Stephen Mahy is a very talented Australian actor and singer. He graduated from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, Edith Cowan University in 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts- Music Theatre and has starred in various commercials and television series including I Will Survive and City Homicide.
Stephen is best known for his role as Bob Gaudio in Jersey Boys the musical and other notable roles include Kenickie in Grease the musical (GFO), Brad in The Rocky Horror Show (GFO), Spank: 50 Shades Parody, Miss Saigon and his current show Fag Boy and the Married Guy is playing as part of the 2016 Sydney Fringe Festival at the New Theatre in Sydney from 20-24 September 2016- buy tickets here.
We talked to Stephen about his career thus far in the entertainment industry including how his interest in acting began, check out the interview below.
Welcome to The Fame Reporter Stephen, What was it that sparked your interest in acting initially?
I think it was seeing my older sister sing. I remember I cried when she started singing.
How was your experience attending the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts and how did that experience affect your current career progression?
Studying at WAAPA was great. I never had the chance to do so many classes week in, week out. It opened doors to agents, teachers and mentors. Since then I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without it.
What 5 performers dead or alive would you love to have a dinner party with and why?
Brad Pitt and Ed Norton so we can talk about all things Fight Club. Although the first rule of Fight club is ……..
Elton John because I think it would be the campest dinner I’ve been to.
Cate Blanchett because she’s down right amazing and also Heath Ledger. Hugh Jackman, Margot Robbie, Jarod Leto
Wait you said five right?
Who are your style role models?
Nike, The beach, Hugo Boss and myself.
How did you react when you were cast in Miss Saigon, I saw it in London this year and was blown away (yes by the helicopter)?
Miss Saigon was my first show and will forever be one of my top all time experiences. Playing the role of Chris, called up last minute to be on, first show straight out of University, travelled Australia. The list goes on.
What was your experience like playing Bob Gaudio in the award-winning Jersey Boys?
How much time do you have? Meeting the man himself was by far the most humbling experience I’ve ever had. Jersey Boys is the best show I have ever done.
What about the role of Kenickie in Grease did you love and how was it performing in Singapore with the show as Danny?
Grease was a hoot. I never in my mind saw myself playing any role. But it was an amazing experience. Tough and fun all at the same time. Sharing a stage with Lucy Maunder is forever in my life.
Do you have a role in any musical theatre or straight theatre piece that you are dying to embody and play?
I wish I was Elder Price in the upcoming Book Of Mormon production. I’d love to play the Phantom and I’d also like to be in the next show written by Anthony Castanzo
You recently were in The Rocky Horror Show musical as Brad Majors that show has such a cult following and they are doing a re-imagining of the film in October in America, did you enjoy stepping into Brad’s shoes, what was your biggest challenge in that role?
Brad was so short and sweet and I loved it. Working with that cast was a dream.
Craig McLachlan was the funniest most dedicated performer I have ever met. The hardest thing about the show was trying not to laugh at Craig on stage.
How is television/commercial acting different to stage acting and what is your
favourite thing about both?
All acting needs to come from the same place but stage and screen have differences. Television is more subtle. You can never lie when on camera. It sees right through it.
In terms of being the understudy on a show, for example in your case Chris/John in Saigon and Danny in the Australian tour of Grease, what does that mean to you and what is the process behind having that role and your ensemble plot?
Being an understudy is a huge discipline. You need to know the show inside and out. Always be prepared and ready to go. Everyone has a sick day at some point. So be prepared.
Lastly who or what inspires you?
My girlfriend inspires me, my friends do and I inspire me. I have a great network of people around me and I cherish everyone I love.
Thank-you Stephen for being a guest at The Fame Reporter we wish you all the best for your show and future projects!
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