Hi Sam, is now a good time to chat?
Yes, absolutely!

Are you performing tonight?
Yes, at 7:30 PM at The Old Vic.

How do you prepare for a role on a show day?
The role is always at the back of my mind, whether I’m actively working on it or not.

Could you share a bit about the play you’re currently involved in?
Machinal is a phenomenal play written in 1928 by Sophie Treadwell, an incredible figure who was a war correspondent, journalist, and director. The play, “Machinal,” is often called an expressionist play. It deals with themes of control and dehumanization, set against the backdrop of the 1920s modernist confidence. The protagonist, a sensitive but ordinary woman, ends up killing her husband in a world that feels unsustainable.

What kind of audience does your current play attract?
We get a mixture of people. Some come because it’s at the Old Vic, and some are drawn by the fantastic reviews. The director, Richard Jones is very well-established, having won several Olivier Awards, which also attracts a crowd. Additionally, there are people who seek out genuinely good theatre, especially when much of the West End is dominated by commercial plays with Hollywood stars. Machinal is getting standing ovations – it’s just fantastic.

Could you tell me about the television drama ‘The Jury: Murder Trial‘
It was a really interesting and unique experience. Every word we spoke was from the verbatim transcript of a 2012 murder trial (John Reisdale), with only the names and locations changed. The makers of the programme had to tread a fine line to make my character sympathetic enough to create drama, even though he did commit murder. It was like a theatre job and a TV job rolled into one, as we performed the entire trial over seven days for the jury.

Do different types of plays, like Shakespeare or modern drama, offer more creative freedom?
Each has its merits. Shakespeare offers rich language, while modern plays often allow for more personal interpretation.

What’s the difference in performing open-air theatre compared to a traditional stage?
Open-air requires powerful projection especially on a windy day and physicality, especially without microphones in the old days. Things are much better now.

How do you think young people can be encouraged to engage with drama beyond musical theatre?
I think it depends on what’s available locally. If a youth theatre focuses on musicals, that’s what kids will gravitate towards. But there are definitely young people interested in straight plays. When I was growing up, I was lucky to have an amazing youth theatre nearby that did a variety of plays, and that really inspired me. It’s important for schools and local theatres to offer a range of opportunities.

What advice would you give to young aspiring actors?
Do it all the time. Find a local youth theatre or drama group and participate in as many plays as you can. It’s important to take it seriously and work hard, but also to keep it playful and fun. Being versatile and enjoying the process is key.

How do you manage gaps between acting jobs?
I keep busy with audiobooks and somtimes voiceovers and always stay prepared for the next opportunity. Taking a break is also quite nice too. The best thing about my job is the fact that it’s just, you know, one minute you’re doing Shakespeare, one minute you’re doing something completely different.

What would your perfect day look like?
My perfect day would involve a bike ride down the River Lea with my family, a nice pint by the river, and a family meal at home—maybe something I’ve cooked in a slow cooker. I’d also enjoy a game of tennis (as I look at my golf clubs) and, ideally, get a phone call from my agent with good news about a job. To top it off, I’d love to see an inspiring play at the theatre.

What’s the best piece of acting advice you’ve ever received?
Always stay true to your interpretation of a character, no matter how others perceive it.

Finally, any upcoming projects we should be excited about?
I’m exploring a few options, so nothing confirmed yet, but I’m eager for what’s next!

Interview by David Ridings