Summer with 'Alchemy': An Interview with Soheila Clifford

Marek J. Śmietański

Summer with 'Alchemy': An Interview with Soheila Clifford

Image1. How did your adventure with 'Alchemy' start?

Soheila: I first knew Clive through the connection of my dad, as they toured together many years ago. I first got involved in 'Alchemy' from my previous involvement in 'She' as Rehani. And I then moved on to take on the role of Jessamine. I have many great memories of 'Alchemy' throughout so far. Like recording in the studio and being able to get in to my character more and more. The rehearsals have been brilliant as I have got to know the wonderful cast we have and the dress rehearsals we a lot of fun!

2. How did your work routine look like while recording the album and preparing for the Katowice concert?

Soheila: Recording in the studio is always a great experience because you feel like you truly become your character almost as much as you do on stage. You discover a lot more about your voice too and what you are capable of. In Katowice, the rehearsal beforehand felt amazing as it was a stage (size wise) beyond anything I had performed on before. And the sound was fantastic along side my cast mates. I have been on tour with a musical once before and we played some beautiful venues. But Katowice was really something special. The feel of the pre show nerves and excitement was truly amazing. The audience made me feel very welcome, and I loved every second on stage and off.

3. Do you expect the theatre version of 'Alchemy' in Cheltenham to be more difficult than the Katowice show?

Soheila: I believe that the performance in September will actually be easier. Simply because the staging will allow the characters to interact and make the story clearer. Interaction is the most important thing in a musical. I also believe that with a more 'theatrical' approached version in September will almost develop the characters and their relationships more. Katowice will be a wonderful memory but I greatly look forward to Cheltenham now too.

4. Do you think 'Alchemy' will affect your future career and did your past musical experience help in the 'Alchemy' project?

Soheila: I think that 'Alchemy' will benefit my career with no limits. It has been wonderful working with so many big names throughout. I also really appreciate the kind words of the audience and that they say they loved my performance. It was a real honour to meet such lovely people after the show and it's wonderful to know that they acknowledge my career as it goes now. It's such an indescribable feeling that money can't buy so thank you all supporters.

5. Was it your first visit to Poland and how will you remember it?

Soheila: Yes it was my first trip to Poland and it's certainly not a trip I'll ever forget. I'll remember its huge amounts of snow! But above all I'll remember all the wonderful people that I had the pleasure of meeting, I'm so glad that they love 'Alchemy' as much as we love being a part of it. It was definitely one of the most memorable performances I'll ever have. 

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