In our brand-new series, Tell Us In 10, we’re going to be asking casts and creatives of top London shows to tell us all about themselves…in just ten questions! From what their colleagues would say about them behind their back, to Theatreland idols and favourite shows, there’s a lot to find out!
Taking on the task this week is Giles Cooper. Giles is currently playing the lead role of Nigel in Nigel Slater’s Toast. Take it away Giles!
1. My route into theatre was…
School plays, local amateur theatre group and drama school.
2. My West End idol is…
Can I have two? Simon Russell Beale and Lesley Manville
3. My colleagues would describe me as…
A charming idiot and champion corpser perhaps?
4. My favourite show present or past (that isn’t one I star in/work on) is…
Tough question. Alan Bennett’s adaption of The Wind in The Willows which my Dad took me to when I was eight years old. It was my first trip to the National Theatre, and that show blew my mind open.
5. The career moment I’m most proud of is…
After The Dance was a very special show to be a part of for many reasons. And of course, playing Nigel Slater is a tremendous honour.
6. The hardest part about my role is…
I have a terrible sweet tooth and there are A LOT of delicious treats lying around backstage!
7. If I didn’t work in theatre I would be…
Something in the kitchen or the garden.
8. Something people don’t know about me is…
I’m related to Irish playwright JM Synge.
9. The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is…
Eleanor Roosevelt said, “Do one thing every day that scares you”. She obviously didn’t personally say this to me but I really love it as a daily challenge.
10. The one thing I wish I could tell my younger self is…
Enjoy it all…but remember moderation.
