Interview: Actor Paddy Bever on starring in STRANGER THINGS: THE FIRST SHADOW
Yesterday (15 July), it was 10 years since the first series of Stranger Things was released on Netflix - madness! To celebrate a decade of this incredible TV show, we spoke to Paddy Bever who has recently taken up the role of Henry Creel in Stranger Things: The First Shadow in the West End.
It has been ten years since Stranger Things was first seen on TV. Why do you think people love this story and these characters?
I think that, at its core, Stranger Things is about people. There’s something for everyone. It goes without saying that if you’re a sci-fi super fan, you’re going to love it. But also if you grew up in the 1980s. If you’re into modern history. If you like Kate Bush.
Why do you think the world of Stranger Things translates so well to the stage?
Because TV show in itself is so immersive and atmospheric, it’s easy to see the appeal of watching it onstage, experiencing it live with a room of strangers, watching the actors go through those things before your eyes.
What appealed to you about being part of Stranger Things: The First Shadow on stage?
It was so different to doing a TV show about modern-day, real-life people. It’s darker than anything I’ve done before, I wanted to explore the humanity within that darkness, the vulnerability of the villain, how he, too, could experience love and pain and hope just like the rest of us.
What has it been like to make your professional stage debut in such a huge production?
It’s been terrifying and exciting in equal measures. I’ve never had a live audience before. And to take on a role that’s been played already is always daunting, though it’s not my first time doing it. Coming from TV, you never want people to think that’s all you can do. So I hope I’m able to prove that.
What was the rehearsal process like for joining such a big and technical show?
The show is incredibly technical. I had to learn to walk on the revolve, to fly on strings without swinging, to use the trapdoor. And there are so many effects that look beautiful if I hit my mark (thank you TV) and say the right cue at the right time. So there was lots to learn, but when it’s right, it’s worth it!
What did you learn from your time on Coronation Street that you have taken with you into Stranger Things?
At its core, acting is the same, just manifesting itself differently depending on the medium. It’s about people. I’ve become more confident and it taught me to learn lines quickly. I also learned to be a team member within a cast. But theatre comes with many new skills to learn.
Why should people come and see Stranger Things: The First Shadow before it closes at the end of the year?
In short, you’ve never seen anything like it before, and you’ll never see anything like it again. It’s not just a story (and it’s a great one), it’s an experience. Come and see us before it’s too late!