We chatted to Joanna about the upcoming West End run for new musical The Time Traveller’s Wife.
Hi Joanna, how does it feel to be part of this production? Fantastic! So excited to be originating the part of Clare in this brand new West End musical – I can’t believe it’s actually happening! This sort of thing doesn’t happen every day.
How would you describe The Time Traveller’s Wife to anyone who isn’t familiar with the story? It tells the tale of Henry and Clare – a normal couple navigating life, marriage, family, dreams – all with the added complication of time travel thrown in because of Henry’s rare genetic condition.
What would you say the main appeal of the story is? Oh too many factors to pick – The music is just so beautiful, and the illusions are incredible. But amongst all that is a really beautiful and human love story – one that will pull you in and chew you up! And isn’t that what we all want from a trip to the theatre?!
How would you describe Clare? Clare is passionate, ambitious, creative, loving, funny, complex. Lauren Gunderson has written such an empowered woman in an often unempowered situation. It’s a challenge and a joy to navigate that.
For those of us yet to hear the music – what can we expect? It’s incredibly varied – from boppy pop tunes to soaring and heartbreaking ballads. Each song is a stand alone hit (in my opinion!) and then you add the story on top and the underscore and it’s just dreamy.
What have you enjoyed the most about being part of The Time Traveller’s Wife so far? Getting to be a part of it from the very start and being a part of the conversations about characters from the get go has been amazing. Recording the album was also a real highlight.
By Emma Clarendon
The Time Traveller’s Wife will begin performances at the Apollo Theatre from the 7th October 2023. You can book tickets here.