A graduate of Rose Bruford College, Eleanor Kane is hitting the stage for the first time in hottest ticket in town musical in London right now: Fun Home at The Young Vic. We were lucky to get some time to “Ask The Star” about cooking curry and why the role of Medium Alison is relatable.
Not only an actor Eleanor also performs and writes music which can be viewed on her YouTube Channel.How did you get into acting, was there a particular performance you saw that resonated with you?
I was lucky that my mum was a journalist and got tickets to theatre to review it so I saw quite a few plays in Glasgow when I was young. I remember watching a production of Bondagers at the Citizens Theatre when I was about twelve. It was an all-female cast and I was in awe of how vulnerable the actors were being on stage – it was like real life! They also sang songs to create atmosphere and communicate to each other which I was really inspired by.
What has been your favourite role you have played and why?
Fun Home is actually my first professional job, so I only have this experience to draw from in terms of acting jobs. I did love playing Portia in my college production of The Merchant of Venice as she is such an empowered woman and incredibly intelligent. Also, doing Shakespeare’s text in a broad Glaswegian accent is SUPER fun and freed up the language so much for me.
Where did you train?
I’ve just graduated from Rose Bruford College studying Actor Musicianship!Can you tell us a bit about your role in Fun Home and what drew you to playing “Medium” Alison?
I would describe Medium Al as super-charged, aspirational and full of hope. She’s also incredibly brave, which is why I love her. I was at the same stage as her in my life a very short time ago and felt so close to her experience in the play – finding her feet at college, falling in love (and lust) for the first time, finally being free to explore her identity. The audience are with Alison for every discovery she experiences, which I think is why people can really relate to her.
Where has been your favourite place to perform on stage and why?
Again, Fun Home is my stage debut – so I guess The Young Vic stage! I play in bands in Glasgow and my favourite venue to play is Nice N Sleazys, as the atmosphere is so close and you’re literally breathing in the audience. Very raw and VERY Scottish.
What is the most rewarding thing about your work?
Being able to tell the truths of strong and vulnerable women, so that the people watching can see a bit of their own vulnerabilities being reflected and discover something about themselves. It’s a huge responsibility but one I’m so happy to be taking on.
What’s been a funny moment for you on stage? Any mishaps you want to share!?
On our first preview of Fun Home, Cherelle and I fell flat on the floor during our kissing scene!
If you hadn’t have been an actor what would you be doing?
Something to do with music – either performing in bands/solo projects or working on the management/PR side.What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to write songs, go to dance class, and make large batches of curry!
What advice would you give to someone who would like to get into the theatre industry?
TAKE YOUR TIME. You’re entering into a space that asks you to be incredibly vulnerable – which is the most amazing thing about it – so you have to make sure that you’re in the right place mentally to take it on. I feel like there’s a big rush to go to drama school, or to find an agent etc. Just wait until you feel ready to take that step – your artistry will be much more enriched for it. Go and see things that inspire you and do something creative every day.
Who are your influences and inspirations?
There’s loads of people I look up to in the industry – like Patsy Ferran and Rosalie Craig. I think my all-time acting hero would probably be Ian McKellen.
What’s next for you after the success of Fun Home?
Who knows? The sky’s the limit. I’m treating myself to my lifelong dream holiday going horse riding in Italy for a week on my own, as soon as the show finishes.What’s your go to song for auditions or just singing in the shower?
Carole King’s You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman.
Is there a role (regardless of gender) you would love to play in a musical?
Sally Bowles in Cabaret, 100%.
Where can people follow your work on Twitter/Facebook/YouTube etc?
Twitter: @EleanrKaneMusic
Insta: @eleanor_kane
FB: Eleanor Kane Music
YouTube: Eleanor Kane
