The Fame Reporter interviewed Queensland theatre performer Jack Saunders, set to reprise his role as Bob Gaudio in Prospero Arts’ Jersey Boys, playing at the Concert Hall, QPAC from 8-11 February.
Following the success of Prospero Arts’ The Wizard of Oz – In Concert and Singin’ in the Rain – In Concert, this international musical phenomenon will take you behind the scenes – and behind the music – of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. With musical supervision by the incomparable David Young, the awe-inspiring script and score will be brilliantly interpreted by some of Australia’s most sought after musical theatre performers; and supported on stage by an eleven-piece band led by acclaimed musical director and conductor James Dobinson.
Jack is thrilled to be returning to Jersey Boys – this time, with it being in his home state and city. No stranger to the Tony-award winning production, Jack recently completed a six-month contract as Bob Gaudio on board the Norwegian Bliss.
Previous professional credits include: Lad in The Who’s: Tommy (Victorian Opera), Link Larkin in Hairspray, Adam/Felicia in Priscilla: Queen of the Desert (NCLH), Poseidon/Hell Dog in Sylvia (The Australian Ballet), Bob Gaudio in Jersey Boys (Legend House International) and Imp in Burn the Floor (NCLH).
We had the fantastic opportunity to sit down with magnetic stage entertainer Jack Saunders and talk about being cast in Prospero Arts’ production of Jersey Boys, his dream of performing at his hometown theatre, QPAC become a reality, starring in cruise ships theatre shows, and more.
Welcome to The Fame Reporter Jack, what sparked your interest in performing initially?
Throughout my schooling I was surrounded by the performing arts so I think I naturally gravitated to it that way. It was a safe space to explore and enjoy the experience.
I loved the way being on a stage in front of a live audience made me feel.
What was your reaction when you heard you got cast in the Iconic show Jersey Boys?
Over the moon! I saw the show when I was 15 years old at QPAC and it was a turning point that I remember vividly. I sat there at the end of “Dawn” and said to myself “I’m going to be in that show one day… that’s what I want to do”. And here I am 12 years later about to live it out.
My reaction was pure excitement and gratitude that I get to fulfil a childhood dream!
How does it feel to be reprising the role of Bob Gaudio in Prospero Arts’ production of Jersey Boys after playing him on Norwegian Cruiseline and what do you love about this character?
I can’t wait to once again step into the shoes of Bob Gaudio. It is a role that I feel complements my own personality and he has such a dynamic character arc through the production.
I love playing his growth from a young, ambitious musical prodigy to the decorated figure of pop music that we now know today.
What 3 performers dead or alive would you love to have a dinner party with?
I’d have to say Michael Hutchence, John Lennon and Mac DeMarco.
Do you have a role in musical theatre/straight theatre that you are dying to play?
I would love to pay Doody in Grease! “Those Magic Changes” is one of my favourite songs.
What is your favourite scene or number in Jersey Boys?
100% “Let’s Hang On” into “Opus 17” – when it’s just Frankie and Bob left pushing through all the adversity.
The musical numbers have a huge punch and show the character’s fortitude and their desperation to make it work.
What was the best part about performing on a cruise ship in stage shows and what did you learn through that experience?
The best part was performing alongside so many people from different nationalities. UK, USA, South Africa – you get to learn so much about where people come from and their experiences.
What advice do you have for anyone wanting to have a career in musical theatre or performing?
Immerse yourself! Listen to cast recordings, YouTube Broadway shows etc. Expand your knowledge. After that, research training institutions whether that be private or University settings.
Invest in your training 100% and be ready to work hard. You won’t grow unless you’re willing to push yourself.
What do you hope audiences take away from Jersey Boys and what do you think makes the show so popular among audiences?
I hope audiences enjoy seeing the story, the way it was observed by each individual Season (Tommy, Bob, Nick & Frankie). Each Season saw things so differently and have their own little spin on it. It’s their own personal “truth”. The show is so popular because the music is timeless.
I love hearing that the audience members know the songs and didn’t know the Seasons wrote them!
Fame Reporter Word Play
Favourite musical
Jersey Boys! Sorry, but its true.
Jersey Boys
RED!
Favourite style of dance
Jazz
The Who’s: Tommy
Amazing cast and the beautiful Palais Theatre!
Favourite film of all time that you don’t get sick of
Walk The Line
Bucket list
Tour de Mont Blanc Trek.
Place you want to travel to
Greece
Prospero Arts
Opportunity!
Brisbane
Home 🙂
Priscilla
SORE FEET
Dream Co-star to work with
Connor Crawford – he was 5-6 years above me at school and I remember watching him perform in awe. Now I get the chance to stand alongside him!
Norwegian Cruise Line
Seeing the world.
TV Binge
Seinfeld
Favourite song in Jersey Boys
Lets Hang On/Opus
Finally, favourite thing about performing
The beautiful solitary moment in the wings before you walk onstage
Thank you for being our guest Jack and chookas for Jersey Boys at QPAC!
TICKETS
Playing from 8-11 February
Concert Hall, QPAC
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The Fame Reporter 