These recent times have been some of the hardest challenges we've faced and as a community, it hit us pretty hard. However during these difficult times, here at Pocket Size Theatre, we wanted to spread a little positivity and share some peoples experiences because we are all in this together. Each day we'll be speaking to our friends in the industry to share their experiences with you all so take a read and see how people are getting through these hard times.
Let's stick together, share the love and get through this as a community!
*Some information mentioned in this article may be out of date due to the progress of the current situation. Please keep that in mind when reading*
Lucas Rush was most recently seen as Che in Evita on tour in China. His other credits include Lonny in Rock of Ages (UK Tour); Mrs Meers/Resident Director in Thoroughly Modern Millie (UK Tour); St Jimmy/Resident Director in American Idiot (West End & UK Tour); Emcee in Cabaret (Arts Theatre Aberdeen); Cover Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar (World Arena Tour & Universal Pictures); Tony in Saturday Night Fever (RCCL & USA); Roger in Grease (Piccadilly Theatre); Understudy Pop and Rebel Leader in We Will Rock You (Dominion Theatre); Joe Vegas in Fame (UK Tour); Benedick in Much Ado About Nothing (Italian Theatre Tour); Mickey in Blood Brothers (The Manoel Theatre Malta); Robin in The Merry Wives Of Windsor (RSC Barbican Theatre) and Gavrouche in Les Miserables (Palace Theatre).
On Monday 16th March 2020, The Society of London Theatre announced the closure of all Theatres in London. This followed suit with regional venues. Where were you when you found out and what was your initial reaction?
I was at home in London. To be honest, I'd been expecting it. I was actually surprised it hadn't happened sooner! I was oddly calm about it. I'd been working on The Strand and had seen how dead The West End Had become, I knew it couldn't stay open much longer.
Can you tell us anything productive you’ve been doing?
I've been doing an online course in BSL (British Sign Language), I think that's the most productive thing I've been doing. And I'm not gonna lie, Lots of Netflix, Amazon & Sky! Between me and my flatmates, we have loads of platforms! Also my doggies are getting triple the amount of walkies.
Whenever you log onto social media there is so much negativity circulating. How have you been trying to keep a positive mental attitude during these times?
For some reason, Facebook has the ability to draw me into the negativity, so I came off it. That made a huge difference to my mental state. I have trouble with my knee when I put on weight, so I started to focus on diet and exercise.
With the Arts temporarily shut down, how would you advise people to continue to support the Arts industries?
Stay positive! Remember that one way or another The Arts industries ARE coming back! Until then, watch shows online, talk about the things you miss, keep the buzz alive in any way you can. Also, I would say allow people to express their worries. Don't try and silence people who may be having some concerns. We are all experiencing this in different ways. Some people's only outlet is social media, don't be angry with people who might be letting off some steam, just send some positivity their way! Support your fellow quarantined hoomans.
Have you discovered anything that you’d like to recommend to our viewers?
I adored Money Heist! MUST BE WATCHED IN SPANISH WITH SUBTITLES! Subtitles do my head in usually but with this I totally forgot. Fantastic TV show.
In these times of Social Distancing and isolation, how have you been trying to connect with Friends and Family? Any fun quizzes or games?!
Yeah, have been FaceTiming and zooming with friends and family. Can get a bit overwhelming sometimes so I try and pace myself!
And finally, looking to the future, what are you most looking forward to when all of this is over?
I cannot wait to be in a theatre again. I genuinely don't care if I'm in a show, watching a show or selling ice creams. Theatre is the love of my life and I miss it! Also swimming, and obviously I can't wait to hug the hoomans I love.
We'd like to thank Lucas and all other performers who have given up their time to contribute to this feature.
Other useful links for anyone needing further help:
Acting For Others - Charity that provides financial & emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need.
Help Musicians - An independent Charity that helps all forms of Musicians through times of need.
Industry Minds - Mental Health Support for the creative arts.
Theatre Helpline - a free, independent and confidential phone and email service that provides support to people working in the theatre industry.
