Playing the diva in the Auckland premiere of Monty Python's musical hasn't dampened Sharon Hewlett's enthusiasm, reports Sharu Delilkan.
Sharon Hewlett is ecstatic to be playing the Lady of the Lake in Spamalot which she considers the role of a lifetime.
The show's originators, Monty Python, summed up its Lady as a "soggy blonde, watery tart and moistened bint", as she gives Excalibur to Arthur, makes him king, welcomes him to Camelot and sends him off on his quest for the Holy Grail.
"Although it has been the most vocally challenging part, it has been the most fun. For a start, it requires an amazingly low, as well as incredibly high, almost screaming range," says the singer from Totara Heights.
To prepare for the lead female role in Papakura Theatre Company's production, Hewlett has been studying the Tony Award-winning performance by Sara Ramirez, who also plays Callie Torres on Grey's Anatomy, on YouTube. "It's been particularly challenging singing free flow.
"I was absolutely terrified when I had to skat in front of the cast because I'm used to reading and singing the music as it is written, rather than improvising."
However, Hewlett is enjoying the opportunity to wear pretty, flamboyant costumes.
"I usually end up playing the grumpy old supporting roles, so it's nice to be able to wear a multitude of sparkly dresses and not be typecast for once."
That's not the only plus in Spamalot for Hewlett.
The role lets her spend more time with her dad, Paul Bramston, who's playing Mrs Galahad.
"My dad has been a big influence on my doing drama from the beginning.
"It's hilarious to see him on stage wearing a dress. I think he looks rather pretty. Hopefully, he won't upstage me."
The Auckland premiere of Monty Python's Spamalot, Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Drive, Papakura, Apr 30 to May 15. Times vary. Tickets: ph 0800 842 538 or see www.ticketek.co.nz
All washed up
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