In our regular profile series, we ask cast members and creatives of top London shows to tell us all about themselves in just 10 questions. This December, get ready to feel the festive spirit as we unwrap Christmassy Tell Us In Tens, bringing you all the magic, sparkle and cheer from the world of London theatre!
This week we spoke to Oliver Ryan, who plays Sebastian in Jamie Lloyd’s new production of The Tempest.
1. My route into theatre was…
Terry Hands. I left the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and went straight into Terry’s first Rep Company at Clwyd Theatre Cymru playing the boy Alan Strang in Equus, and Johnny Hobnails in Afore Night Come. I went on to work with Terry for the next ten years. I miss him terribly.
2. My West End idol is…
Rosie Sheehy in Machinal. Phenomenal.
3. My colleagues would describe me as…
Why on earth would I want to know that?!
4. My favourite show is…
Misterman by Enda Walsh with Cillian Murphy at the National Theatre. “I really miss you Daddy, but I’m doing my best with it.”
Cillian Murphy in Misterman at the National Theatre. Photo by Catherine Ashmore.
5. The career moment I’m most proud of is…
The first preview performance of Doctor Faustus in the RSC’s Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon. Sandy Grierson and I standing on stage waiting for a match to burn out to tell us which part we’re about to play.
6. The hardest part about my job/role is…
It’s all gravy.
7. If I wasn’t an actor, I would be…
A painter and decorator. Number one job comes with gaps, unfortunately!
8. Something people don’t know about me is…
I paint houses!
9. The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is…
Never dwell on the problem, only the solution.
10. The one thing I wish I could tell my younger self is…
Drink more water.
Catch Oliver alongside Sigourney Weaver’s Prospero in The Tempest at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. Book your tickets via Official London Theatre!