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!
Jessica Joslin is currently in the ensemble of the West End production of Les Miserables where she is also 1st Cover for Fantine. Her other credits include Ensemble and cover Mrs Phelps in Matilda (Cambridge Theatre); Janelle Woods and Dance Captain in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (West End/UK and Ireland tour); How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (Quays Theatre); The Dreaming (NYMT, Rose Theatre); The Wizard of Oz and Oliver! (New Vic Theatre) and Matt Lucas & Friends (Vaudeville).
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*Some information mentioned in this article may be out of date due to the progress of the current situation.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*
Jessica Joslin is currently in the ensemble of the West End production of Les Miserables where she is also 1st Cover for Fantine. Her other credits include Ensemble and cover Mrs Phelps in Matilda (Cambridge Theatre); Janelle Woods and Dance Captain in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (West End/UK and Ireland tour); How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (Quays Theatre); The Dreaming (NYMT, Rose Theatre); The Wizard of Oz and Oliver! (New Vic Theatre) and Matt Lucas & Friends (Vaudeville).
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 in the principal ladies’ dressing room at the Sondheim Theatre, when we were told that the show wouldn’t be going ahead. I was going to be making my debut as Fantine that evening. Although I was gutted not to perform the show, I knew the right decision had been made. It was a sad evening for the theatre industry.
Can you tell us anything productive you’ve been doing?
I’m trying to keep busy and productive, without putting too much pressure on myself. I’m enjoying lots of reading, daily yoga and singing practise. A group of my castmates from Les Misérables take part in weekly workouts together - I’ve been leading a couple of yoga sessions which has been something new and enjoyable. I’ve also been exercising old sewing skills and discovered embroidery which is a lovely mindful task.
