Interview: Christine Allado Of IN THE HEIGHTS!

Hi Christine! You've joined a hugely established and critically acclaimed cast to take on the role of Vanessa - how are you settling in?

I feel like I've been here for ages! At the beginning I had maybe two weeks to learn it. I say that, I was in for maybe one hour a day and had to learn it from the video - I took it upon myself to learn it because I couldn't wait to start. A week in, I was like, "I'm ready to open, if you need me to!" I was so eager to get in. I wanted to do it so badly.

The Oliviers was my third show, technically. The cast are amazing, really supportive, it's got a really family environment. What's on stage is reflected in the relationships of the company. We've also welcomed three other newcomers; that was a week after I opened, so our family is complete now.

Is that really hard, to learn a part from video?

It is hard, definitely! I got a professional show recording, so I can't always see my character. I have to be guessing what's going on. But that coupled with work with our dance captain, the two things married each other and helped me prepare for the role.

How much input did you have in creating your interpretation then?

Things like blocking or lighting, you need to hit that. I didn't feel like I had to slot in, I found it really organic. Because it was directed so well, nothing felt wrong. I've spoken to a few people and they say I've made her quite different compared to the others who have done it, who are obviously incredible. I've given her a different take.

How well did you know the show?

I was always a big fan. I loved it. I loved the music.

Lin-Manuel Miranda's family have been in to see it, the original producers have too. I don't think he has - it would be amazing if and when he does!

The Oliviers ceremony must have been exciting - what was it like?

Insane. I walked the red carpet in a designer dress that was lent to me. It was crazy, I'd never even been to the Oliviers. Then to be on a red carpet - it felt very much like a Cinderella story to me! It was a whirlwind - from always being a cover or understudy, suddenly I'm a role in a massive show in London. It feels like a Cinderella story to me every day.

Christine Allado plays Vanessa in In The Heights at the King's Cross Theatre.

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