In our profile series, Tell Us In 10, we ask cast members and creatives of top London shows to tell us all about themselves in just 10 questions. From how their castmates would describe them and alternative careers, to their Theatreland idols, we want to know it all!
This week, we hear from Jaouhar Ben Ayed, who’s currently playing Dennis, who in turn plays hapless butler Perkins in the murder mystery play within a play in The Play That Goes Wrong.
Find out more about Jaouhar and his career so far below:
1. My role is……
I play Dennis, who plays the role of Perkins, the butler at Haversham Manor who attends to everyone’s needs.
The Play That Goes Wrong, photo Robert Day
2. My favourite thing about my role is…
I get to light a matchstick on stage!
3. My least favourite thing about my role is…
There are so many cues I need to keep on top of otherwise something may go wrong!
4. The show is perfect for families to enjoy this summer because…
Age does not apply for this kind of show – it’s hilarious and will have both grandparents and children rolling on the floor laughing.
The Play That Goes Wrong, photo Robert Day
5. I think Kids Week is a great initiative because…
It’s summer and they’ve been working hard at school and deserve a chance to laugh with (or at) the actors on stage!
6. My earliest memories of theatre are…
School shows – I played an extra in Fiddler on the Roof and got one of Mrs Lovett pies thrown into my face in Sweeney Todd.
7. I always knew I wanted to work in theatre because…
It’s live and anything could happen! Live is always best and fresh!
Children enjoying the Kids Week stage combat workshop at The Play That Goes Wrong
8. The one thing I wish I could tell my younger self is…
Enjoy being young!
9. In my spare time, I like to…
Play piano and play PlayStation – not Xbox.
10. If I could have a superpower for a day, I would choose…
The ability to make anyone believe me, so I could say to a bank they owe me millions!