We’re excited to welcome actor, singer and musician Trevor Dion Nicholas to American Eye. Trevor hails from West Virginia via Broadway. He recently moved to London and is currently wowing the crowds in his West End stage debut as Genie in Aladdin the Musical. Judith Schrut spoke to Trevor in his dressing room ahead of the show’s opening.
Tell us a little about growing up in West Virginia.
I could describe that in three words: mountains, snow and family. I’m the youngest of five in a really close family, ten years younger than my next sibling. I’ve been lucky with my place in the family as I had the attention of a single child with the nurturing of a large family.
Who’s been your biggest inspiration in your life and career?
My parents, Bobby and Doris, have always been inspirational and supportive in my life and career. Dad’s a singer and I grew up watching him perform. Mom’s a social worker with a big love of theatre and music; she’s been a huge inspiration as far as my work ethic goes. I watched her fight and struggle and push to earn her doctorate in social work while taking care of our family. She taught me that if you want it, you should push for it.
What sparked your interest in theatre?
My parents were both big theatre fans. When I was young, we’d often just get in the car, the 3 of us, and drive to places like NewYork or Toronto to see shows. All the way there and back we’d listen and sing along to recordings of great musicals. That was my first exposure to theatre. I’m very happy that both Mom and Dad are coming over for the London press night of Aladdin.
We understand you’ve brought your family with you to London. How are they finding it?
Yes, my wife and two young children are here with me, and the kids are going to a nearby English school. They love their new school and their friends in London. They love the museums, they love the food...we all do! The accessibility to lots of different food and art and culture is great.
What most excites you about being in Great Britain?
This is my first time in the UK, ever! I’m most excited about doing Aladdin here, getting to build this new version for British audiences. I’m also excited about the ease of travel so I can expose my kids to as much of Europe and the UK as I can. And for an old theatre nerd like me, London is amazing, like being in the birthplace of all that. There’s this pumping, beating heart here that you just don’t get anywhere else.
Please share with our readers a little more about the show.
It’s all about magic, friendship, love, glitz and glamour! My favourite moment is when the lamp is rubbed and I first enter as the Genie. You can feel the excitement in the audience, and my adrenaline goes through the roof. It is the most exhilarating and awesome moment, the best time!
What would you advise Americans in Britain, especially families, not to miss while they’re here?
My family and I had a real blast at the Udderbelly Festival, a cool, outdoor, bohemian style festival happening on London’s South Bank all this summer. There was so much energy, I can’t wait to go back. The museums are unmissable, especially the Science Museum. And theatre of course. I believe the younger you can expose kids to live performance the better. My advice would be, whether you’re here for a short time or long time, enjoy as much of the culture and history as you can.
And your recommendations for ‘eating American’?
The best American chicken wings I’ve had was at the Hippodrome Casino. And I hear Maxwell’s do really good ribs.
Are there any American pleasures you particularly miss?
I’m pretty adaptable but I do miss my bakeries! Specifically, the Hummingbird Cake at New York’s Magnolia Bakery. And the incredible rice pudding at Rice to Riches.
We hear you consider yourself a Foodie, that you enjoy cooking and you’re an especially big fan of brunch. So, who would you invite to your fantasy brunch?
Yes, cooking is my solace. I love to cook, to feed people. I got that from my parents. The preparation, the presentation, the act of creating something right there with your hands that people enjoy. And I do love my brunch! I’d invite as many of my friends and family I could feed at one time. And the US President of course. How cool would that be? To have the Obamas over for brunch and impress them with my poached eggs! I’d definitely want my favourite chef, Alton Brown, to be in charge of food. We could hang out together! And I’d definitely want my indie rock band, Neighbourhood Goliath, to come and play some great music.
You can experience Trevor’s Genie in Aladdin, now showing at London’s Prince Edward Theatre www.aladdinthemusical.co.uk. And tune in to Trevor’s tweets at twitter.com/astonishingtrev.
Picture: And may all your wishes come true. Trevor Dion Nicholas in Disney’s Aladdin
Article by Judith Schrut. Email Judith at judith0777@gmail.com