Name: Anna Hamilton
Year: 13
House: Harington
Which character do you play?
Paulette.
In a sentence or two, sum up who your character is in the context of the story:
She transforms from wimp to wonderful.
What do you like most about playing this character?
Paulette’s quirkiness and brash attitude means that she is seriously fun to play onstage, plus the fact
that I’m allowed pretty much free reign over how much of an adorable dork she is.
Have there been any challenges taking on this role?
Apart from the fact that Paulette is far more ostentatious (hence her clothing choices) than me, her brassy and flawless riffs have provided an ultimate challenge to conquer. Here’s hoping I do her justice!
Without giving away too much, what are you most excited for the audience to see?
Trying (but failing) to channel my inner Jean Butler. Legally Blonde certainly has some of the most sensational dancing I have seen in amateur theatre – thanks Leona!
Is this your first stage show/musical or have you performed before?
This is my second production at St Paul’s that I have performed in. I also performed in many school and community shows back in Thames.
Have you ever received any awards or special achievements relating to acting/singing/performing?
Last year I received my Grade 8 singing with Distinction. I have also won numerous age group categories in regional and national singing competitions, including the New Zealand Aria. In February this year, I was fortunate to be chosen to perform in the Honours Performance Series Women’s Choir at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
If you could star in any other musical, what would it be?
I would absolutely love to play Christine in Phantom of the Opera or Glinda in Wicked.
Who do you look up to (as an actor/singer/performer)?
Sierra Boggess – she is phenomenal!
Do you have plans to continue with performing once you leave school?
Yes, the plan (at this stage) is to study music and law at university. If given the opportunity, I would love to pursue performing after university – either in opera or musical theatre.
Is there anything additional you would like to share about your experience so far being involved in this year’s school production?
Any current or future St Paul’s student should totally get involved in next year’s production. All the cast and backstage team (regardless of their previous theatre experience) have said what a fun opportunity this has been. Being part of something so collaborative and supportive creates bonds across all areas of school life, so I encourage anyone to take the plunge!
Legally Blonde The Musical hits the stage at Southwell School Performing Arts Centre July 1-5.
Snap up your tickets here.
