Interview: Naomi Alade on performing in MAIDEN VOYAGE at Southwark Playhouse Elephant

With book and lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, and music by Carmel Dean, an epic true story about the first all-female sailing crew to race across the world comes to life in a sweeping, extraordinary new musical, Maiden Voyage. We speak to musical theatre star Naomi Alade about playing Jo in this world premiere production.

Please can you tell us what Maiden Voyage is about and a little bit about your character.

Maiden Voyage is about the first all-female crew to sail around the world in the Whitbread round the world race. Jo Gooding was the galley chef and was also responsible for the filming on board but mostly Tracy's very dear and supportive friend.

Why do you think now is the right time to tell this true story from 1989/90? What does it have to say to our modern world?

I think it has so much to say to our modern world, I think nowadays we want things that come very easily and to see a story of women determined, really fighting against the odds to achieve something when the whole world was telling them they couldn’t.

It sounds like this was the original Race Across The World! Why do you think we find other people's travels so interesting to watch?

Because we can be exposed to so much of the world through what other people explore and achieve, now that we spend so much time on our phones (not the best in any way) we can be exposed to the world in ways we wouldn't previously have been able to see!

What has it been like to work on a brand-new musical in comparison to an already existing hit like SIX?

Working on a show like SIX, you find your way in an already oiled machine but to build something from the ground up is a lot more exposing actually, but it’s very fun and quite freeing!

What is it like to work in such an intimate venue? 

I think it's great because the acting choices can be much more sensitive and nuanced and allows the audience to be really in the midst of a very active story. I hope they feel like they’re sailing with us!

What are some of your future theatrical aspirations? 

I would love to work with the likes of Beverley Knight and Audra McDonald - true theatre trailblazers who are filled with such excellence and grace in who they are and what they do.

Who would you recommend Maiden Voyage to? 

Anyone and everyone! People can expect amazing storytelling, and incredible music and vocals.

Maiden Voyage plays at Southwark Playhouse Elephant from 19 July-23 August, with further info here.