We sat down with Shanay Holmes and Daisy Twells to chat about their blossoming West End careers.
You most recently played Nancy in the West End’s Oliver! – what did that role mean to you personally and professionally?
Personally it was a realisation of a dream. To be given the opportunity to play an iconic role that is so loved was incredible. Professionally it allowed me to show everyone watching what I bring to the table as an actor and I have been overwhelmed by the love and support from audiences about my portrayal of her.
Winning a Black British Theatre Award for Best Female Lead is such an incredible achievement. How did it feel in the moment when your name was called?
Euphoric. It is the first award I have ever won for my work as an actor so to be celebrated by my community for my work was very special to me and something I will treasure always. You’re in a room with people I have looked up to my entire life and it felt very life affirming. I poured all of myself into playing Nancy I believe it is the most vulnerable I’ve been on stage so it was everything.
Beyond performing, you’re also the co-founder of Musical Con and the West End Musical Brunch. What inspired you to create spaces like these for theatre fans?
I love to make people feel good. I like creating things people will love and will bring them joy. All of our events give that to people the mission is to always make people feel seen and celebrated and I think that is one of the most powerful things we can do for each other on a human level so to incorporate that into events and experiences is my greatest joy and is the thing I am most proud of.
With such a busy schedule balancing performing and producing events, how do you protect your voice and your wellbeing?
I am strict when it comes to my vocal routine. You have to be sacred with your time when you have your own business. West end performers don’t get enough credit. They are Olympians they train and they perform at a Olympic level. Truly. That takes a lot of discipline and hard work. I love the phrase “Vocal Athlete” as that is what we are. I have a lot of rituals and have worked out a way of looking after myself that is built up from years of experience and things I’ve learned along the way.
For young performers watching your journey and dreaming of a similar path, what advice would you give them about building both a career and their own creative projects?
Go for it. Go for it. And believe in it. If you can see it you can build it. You really can. I really can’t stress enough how much I believe all young performers must build both career and their own projects. I think it is so important for young actors to know that they have so much at their fingertips. Don’t wait for some else to say “Yes!” to you whilst you become deflated or discouraged by the rejection this industry comes with go out there and make something for yourself and the other part of the industry won’t feel so all consuming. When you build other projects to pour into creatively and other ideas to focus on you won’t get fixated on auditioning or waiting for your agent to call in the same way you will be pouring into yourself . If you want to write as well as act go for it. If you want to direct or produce or teach go for it. You have nothing to loose only to gain and when your building something aligned to who you are as a person and an actor that in itself is an incredibly powerful thing.
You’re about to star in the UK tour of Legally Blonde: The Musical – how are you feeling as opening night approaches?
I’m excited and can’t wait for people to see our new interpretation of the show. It feels like a dream come true.
You’ve been part of much-loved shows like Heathers and Muriel’s Wedding. How does Legally Blonde compare for you in terms of energy and character?
My track in this show feels very similar to Muriel’s Wedding, but it has the same music feel as Heathers as it’s the same composer. It’s very full-out, colourful and high energy. Heather Mac is also very similar to Margot, who I cover for.
Touring can be such a unique experience compared to the West End. What are you most looking forward to about life on the road?
I’m looking forward to visiting some venues that I’ve been to before on previous tours, and spending time with the cast, who will become my second family for the next year.
You’ve built a really strong musical theatre presence on social media – how has that community supported you throughout your career?
They are such wonderful fans and so supportive. I’ve built a community and I’m so grateful for everyone who has joined me, whatever point in my career they have followed me.
For young performers who follow you and dream of being on stage one day, what advice would you share with them?
It sounds cliché, but honestly just being your authentic self and unapologetically you. I didn’t know who I was when I was younger and I’m so happy I know who I am now. I’m passionate about musical theatre, and if you don’t live and breathe it then don’t do it as a career, because it’s super hard mentally and requires you to give it your all.
Daisy is represented by BBA Management and is currently starring in the ensemble and covering for Margot in Legally Blonde The Musical UK tour.