Interview: Actress Brooke Vincent on new stage adaptation of THE SYNDICATE
Photo credit: Craig Sugden
Based on her hit BBC TV show that entertained millions of viewers over four series, The Syndicate is a new stage play by the legendary Kay Mellor, that follows five supermarket employees whose lottery syndicate numbers come in, just as their jobs and livelihoods are under threat. We spoke to Brooke Vincent, best known for playing Sophie Webster in Coronation Street, ahead of the show’s opening this week.
For people who may not have seen it on TV, what is The Syndicate about?
The Syndicate is such a fabulous production, purely for the fact that it’s for everyone. There’s fun, drama, laughs, moments that will make you want to cry; it is a wonderful piece of theatre.
What new aspects do you think putting The Syndicate on stage has added to the story?
We’ve found so much more humour. This is another added layer which focuses on series one of the TV series, with characters that are full of life and really are a good mix of personalities.
How have you gone about creating your own version of your character?
I’ve loved having the space but also direction of creating Amy for the stage. Everything on stage is bigger, which suits me as Amy’s character, for me, is the bigger the better!
Kay Mellor established herself as a hugely popular writer. Why do you think audiences relate to her work so much?
Kay wrote characters and stories that people could relate to. There’s definitely an element of that in The Syndicate but the play also gives people the opportunity to think about what they would do if they were in the same situation as the characters.
What is it like to work with Gaynor Faye as both an actor and a director?
Amazing. Gaynor is such a warm and compassionate person, and that comes across in her time directing us. She’s made rehearsals fun and light and let us play a part in creating and developing our characters too.
What has the transition from working for the screen and working on stage been like?
Theatre is much bigger and you get a buzz which you don’t get whilst doing television. I’m very excited to get out there and show everyone what we’ve been up to.
What else would you love to work on in your career in the future?
I love dramas, I would love to be part of something on film that has a start and an end with a journey in between - Coronation Street wasn’t like that. It’s continual so you’re forever thinking what could be happening in the future. I would really like to develop a character and their journey and watch the full timeline.
What can audiences expect from The Syndicate and why should they come and see it?
A really good, fun, light-hearted night out. A fabulous way to get together with friends and have an enjoyable night out.
The Syndicate tours the UK until 27 July. For tickets and venues, please click here.