Interview: Hadley Fraser on new musical chat show series LIVE AT LOLA’S

New Frame Productions and Wild Mountain Productions follow up their successful Monday Night at the Apollo and West End Acoustic shows, with the launch of a new live concert series – Live at Lola’s – opening with a festive theatrical celebration on 8 December at Lola’s Underground Casino at The Hippodrome, in the heart of the West End. We spoke to musical theatre royalty Hadley Fraser who will be appearing in the inaugural show later this week.

Tell us about Live at Lola's and what we can expect from this festive show. 

Live at Lola's is a brand new Musical Chat Show, right in the heart of the West End. It feels like a musical theatre version of the Graham Norton Show! It will be an intimate night of music and chat where we'll regale stories from our careers and lives and sing some of our favourite songs from across the years. 

How does it feel to be part of such a diverse line up? 

Just plain exciting. There’s such a wealth of performance talent around at the moment, and whenever you get to perform with new collaborators, it’s always a treat. I suppose I’m the elder statesman of the line-up (where do the years go?) but I’m always keen to listen and learn from others.  

What is it like to perform in such an intimate venue compared to huge West End theatres? 

Well, there’s a unique joy with a smaller venue. Intimacy, feel, soul - all these things can be a much more vivid part of the evening. There’s nothing like a gig where you can level with audience and invite them in to be an equal part of the evening. 

How do you go about putting a set list for shows like this? 

I have a set-list machine at home. It’s a little like the National Lottery machine, only with song ideas instead of numbers on the balls. Press a few buttons, incorporate a VoiceOver and hey presto, you have a set list. One day, it’ll make me a millionaire.  

You've been in such a variety of shows. What's been the highlight of your career so far? 

Oh Lord. I’ve no idea. I’m perpetually surprised that I’m still working, still plugging away. I love the variety that our profession affords us, and the opportunity to meet and work with good people doing good things. Long may that continue.  

Is there anything still on your theatrical bucket list? 

I suppose a few things - but I’m always loathe to list them in case they don’t happen. There’s only a couple of roles I covet - but probably the same as many other performers. Often the best experiences I’ve had in my working life have been through playing parts that have come out of the blue - ones I never thought I’d play. The Lehman Trilogy (which I’m currently in rehearsals for) would be a good example of that.  

Why should people come to see Live at Lola's? 

For an evening with a bit of a difference. Excellent cabarets exist aplenty - but not many take the opportunity to sit down and have a chat. Love that. And our excellent and esteemed host Greg Barnett will no doubt have some surprises up his talented sleeves… 

Live at Lola’s launches at the Hippodrome Casino on 8 December, with tickets available here.