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*Some information mentioned in this article may be out of date due to the progress of the current situation.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*
Jack Harrison-Cooper is currently part of the original West End cast of The Prince of Egypt at the Dominion Theatre, he is in the ensemble and covers the role of Aaron. His other credits include Ensemble and cover George in The Wedding Singer (South Korea); Chistery and cover ‘Boq’ in Wicked (UK & Ireland Tour); Gremio’in Kiss Me, Kate (Théâtre Du Châtelet; Paris and Grand Théâtre; Luxembourg); Warner in Legally Blonde (Daegu Opera House; South Korea); cover Emmett in Legally Blonde (Leicester Curve) and Miss Saigon (Prince Edward 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 had headed into work as normal and we had all warmed up and completed our lift call which we did before every show, running through every lift to double-check everyone is happy and safe. I knew something was up as every department started to filter onto the stage and this only really happens when there’s big news. Our wonderful producer came on stage also and shared that we were not going to be performing that evening, or for at least a little while. I felt like it was coming anyway as Broadway had shut down only a week before, however, nothing can prepare you for having to pack up your room and travel home. A few of us went to drown our sorrows in a local bar before heading home and not knowing if or when we would ever get the change to do the show again.
Can you tell us anything productive you’ve been doing?
During previews, I completed my L3 Personal Training course and so was fully qualified going into lockdown. I have been holding three classes a week on Instagram, and also now taking on private clients as the government advice has eased up. I am also now part of the magnetic studio's team which is a group of performers and creatives who have come together to provide training and classes so that people all over the world can have access to continue their passion during this time.
