Northampton's Royal and Derngate Theatre is gearing up for a unique and entertaining event, as its front-of-house staff, who gained internet fame for their TikTok dance routines, are returning to the stage with a sequel to their first show. The team, known as TheatreFrontOfHouse on TikTok, has amassed over 160,000 followers and is now set to perform the musical 'La Grande Façade' on June 26th and 27th. This marks a significant step in their journey, as they transition from viral sensations to professional performers.
The original show, 'The Show Must Go...On?', was a spontaneous creation due to an unexpected gap in the theatre's schedule. However, this time around, the team has more preparation time and a clearer vision for the production. Director Jodie Kindell, who also performed in the first show, expressed the challenge of living up to their own success, stating, 'We did such a good job last year that we've got big shoes to fill, even though they are our own shoes.'
The musical explores themes of fame and the dynamics within a close-knit team, mirroring the real-life experiences of the staff. Kindell believes that the show's success lies in the safe and supportive environment they've created, saying, 'We are a family so it makes the rehearsal process a lot easier, as it makes it a safe space to explore these themes and ideas.'
One of the key aspects of this production is the involvement of Joseph Kempster, the musical director who has written 10 original songs for the show. He emphasizes the importance of embracing their imperfections, stating, 'We're not polished actors or performers, we're not pitch perfect, but it doesn't need to be [and] there's real beauty in that.' This approach adds a layer of authenticity and charm to the performance.
The dedication and professionalism of the team are also highlighted by Rimini Reed, who plays multiple instruments in the musical, and Matthew Cook, who is part of the ensemble. Cook acknowledges the improvement in their professionalism compared to the previous show, where they had limited preparation time. James Swindall, a customer experience supervisor and performer, emphasizes the strong bond within the group, which has been built over years of working together.
Benji Dotan, a co-star and front-of-house staff member, shares the team's desire to showcase their hidden talents and prove their professionalism beyond their TikTok fame. He believes that this show will demonstrate their ability to deliver a high-quality performance, stating, 'We have all this hidden talent, we want to show [that it] happens [here in] Northampton.'
The Royal and Derngate Theatre's initiative to involve their staff in the creative process is a unique and inspiring approach to theatre production. It not only showcases their skills but also adds a layer of authenticity and personal connection to the performances. As the team prepares for their upcoming shows, they are poised to captivate audiences with their talent, dedication, and the unique story they bring to life on stage.
