Acting

So, you want to get into Acting?

An interview with Actress, Rachel John

Rachel John is an actress, best known for her work in musical theatre. She was born in East London and grew up singing in church. Her passion for this art, and her talent grew, leading her to having a career for over 12 years performing on West End stages as well as regional theatre and internationally.

In 2014 she joined the cast of Memphis as the alternate Felicia. In 2016, she played the role of Nicki Marron in The Bodyguard during its limited return West End engagement.

From November 2017, Rachel played Angelica Schuyler in the West End production of Hamilton. Rachel was nominated for an Oliver Award for ‘Best Supporting Actress in a Musical’ for her performance as Angelica Schuyler.

I would like to thank Rachel for agreeing to do this interview with me; I hope you find it helpful! You can find out more about Rachel on her instagram @1racheljohn

How did you work your way up to having a career as an actress?

I went to Roehampton University where I did a BA in English Literature & Drama and Theatre Studies. My dream was to become a teacher, but I went to an open audition for The Lion King and a year later I was working for them in Disneyland Paris in a show called The Legend of The Lion King. I then auditioned for The Lion King, West End production, and transferred there. Once I got into the job, I started writing to agents and invited them to see me perform when I was on for my cover roles. In order to keep advancing in the industry, I had vocal lessons (both a dialect coach and singing lessons) and acting lessons. I kept going to auditions, watching shows and finally got an agent.

How did you seek out opportunities when you first entered the industry?

Initially I went to open auditions, but then I got my first agent and this significantly opened doors of opportunity for me. I also spoke to other actors to see what projects were in the pipeline.

What is a common misconception about actresses?

I believe there are misconceptions about all of us and the industry in general. Some people assume that we are not doing a 'real job' or it is just a 'hobby' and that we lack 'seriousness'. Some people do not understand the work schedules, audition preparation and the commitment to honing our craft. There are also misconceptions about salary and what 'success' looks like, for example they may assume that The West End, Broadway or starring in a Hollywood blockbuster equal ultimate success, but I have discovered that we are all on an individual path, and we have to keep telling stories and sharing our Art with the world. There will always be misconceptions, but these are out of my control and all I can focus on is, staying positive, growing in my craft and telling stories.

Had you always wanted to work in the creative industries, or were there any other careers you considered?

I always loved singing at church, but never really thought about being apart of the creative industries; I assumed that I would be a Drama Teacher. Before I worked for Disney, I was an Admin Assistant and Secretary. Once I started my first stage show, I knew I was 'home' and exactly where I was born to be.

What is your favorite aspect of your career?

My favourite aspect of the career is meeting audience members and hearing how shows have changed their lives. When you are on stage, you see the vast amount of people, but when you hear their reactions, one to one, it makes it a very personal and enriching experience.

What is your process of preparing for a role once you’ve been cast?

I prepare for a role by working closely with the creative team to understand their vision, direction and plan for the show, by asking questions and taking notes in rehearsal sessions. Also, I get to know my characters by reading my lines, examining song lyrics and practically I work with a dialect and vocal coach to aid speech and singing.

What are your biggest tips for auditions?

My biggest tips for auditions are:

a) PREPARE. Make sure you know the material and take your time to understand the character. This is important because, even if you experience nerves, you are centred in the material.

b) If it is an in-person audition, make sure you arrive with time to spare. When you are early, you can be settled, calm any nerves and be open for a great audition

c) Remember to breathe, keep connected to your breath

d) Try and enjoy the room. You cannot control the outcome of the audition, but you can enjoy the opportunity to meet the team, present your understanding of the character and you are always growing.

What is the one thing you wish you had known before you embarked on your career as an actress?

I wish I had known to be kinder to myself when performances had not gone the way I thought they should have gone. I have been hard on myself and quite critical if I didn't believe a performance was 'perfect' and I came to realise that 'perfect' does not exist. I wish I had known about trusting the process and that growth will come. Also, there may be periods or spells of unemployment, but do not lose heart because, I am growing in this time and the right role will come.

For you, what is the most difficult aspect of being an actress?

One of the challenging things about the acting schedule, is that it can be unpredictable and cause you to miss family events and occasions. Even though we love our work, sometimes you miss the time spent with your friends and family.

What advice would you give to aspiring actresses?

My advice would be, prepare whilst you are waiting for doors to open. You can use your time to prepare monologues, go through your rep folder, watch shows & productions online and in person and connect with other experienced performers in the industry. This keeps your optimism high and you are prepared for the moment when doors open for you.