Once on this Island: Lorinda Merrypor

The Fame Reporter interviewed the talented musical theatre performer Lorinda Merrypor. She stars as Ti Moune in the hit Musical ‘Once on this Island‘ playing at La Boite’s Roundhouse Theatre in Brisbane from 28 April – 8 May.

Once On This Island is the sweeping, bewitching tale of Ti Moune, a fearless peasant girl in search of her place in the world, and ready to risk it all for love. Unbeknownst to Ti Moune, the mighty gods who preside over the island make a bet: which is stronger, love or death – the stakes being Ti Moune’s life.

Enjoy an enchanting musical fairytale with a powerful emotional charge. Once On This Island is an inspiring celebration of hope and love.

We talked to Lorinda about returning to the theatre, what enticed her to be apart of ‘Once on this Island’, her love for the Queensland theatre scene and more.

Welcome to The Fame Reporter Lorinda, for you, what is the most exciting aspect of returning to the theatre?
I’m so excited to have the adrenaline rush of performing for a live audience again!

I love the electricity of live theatre and I can’t wait to share Once On This Island with Queensland audiences.

What enticed you to be a part of Altitude Theatre’s ‘Once on this Island”?
Once on this Island is an incredible show with some of the most moving music and Ti Moune is a dream role. Also, I’m stoked to work with the amazing Creative and Altitude Theatre teams!

What do you love about your character?
Ti Moune is so passionate. I love her conviction and how unafraid she is to follow her heart even when it’s the most difficult path. That, and my mum says I’m hard headed just like her.

What inspired you and to keep you creative during this difficult period that the arts industry is going through?
I honestly don’t think I could’ve stayed sane throughout this period without being creative in some way, it’s really my passion. Whether it was teaching myself guitar, making my own music videos or spending an afternoon painting; that’s how I didn’t go crazy.

How do you feel being part of one of only a few shows in the world, that are able to perform right now?
So grateful. It’s a very weird thing to think about that Broadway is closed, the West End is closed.

I’m definitely thankful to be able to be performing, and at 100% capacity!

What 3 performers dead or alive would you love to have a dinner party with?
Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Ariana Grande.

What do you love about Queensland theatre in particular?
Queensland has so many incredible, high calibre artists and I think the Cultural Hub of Brisbane has been growing so much and that’s very exciting to see and be a part of.

What do you think audiences will love about this version of ‘Once on this Island’?
The authenticity of this version to us as a cast is going to be really special, I think.

We’ve got this phenomenal creative team who have an amazing vision that will really excite Brisbane audiences.

What is the best way we can support the arts industry at this time?
Go and see live shows! Invite your friends. Support and share over social media, every bit helps.