19-year-old West End star Danielle Hope secured her dream role of Dorothy Gale in 2010, when she beat over 9,000 girls to win the coveted part in the BBC’s hit television series, Over the Rainbow. Now mid-way through her run in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s production of The Wizard of Oz at London’s world-renowned Palladium Theatre, Danielle took a break from her busy schedule to sit down with A Younger Theatre to discuss her love of musical theatre, her future in performance and her tips for pursuing a West End career.

When did you discover that you loved to perform?

The first time I performed was age 11, but it wasn’t until 16 that I decided it was something I wanted to do as a career.

You applied to the BBC’s Over the Rainbow TV series in 2010, where they searched for a girl to play Dorothy in the West End adaptation of The Wizard of Oz. What made you decide to audition?

Firstly, it was so I could gain audition experience before [applying] for various drama schools. Then, as I continued through the various stages of the competition, I decided that I would take my chances and pursue the television series.

You were chosen from 9,000 girls to be in the final 20 of the show, aged just 17. Do you think that being cast through a television programme was the best way to gain a role in the West End? 

I think if you get the chance to audition for something, regardless of the process, you should give it a go. I don’t think there is a “best way” to gain any role other than working hard at your craft and doing your best on the day of the audition.

What was the best aspect of Over the Rainbow?

Getting the chance to perform various songs, styles and routines every week, and learning so much new material in such little time. It definitely made me pick things up quicker. And doing it all with a group that I had so much fun with.

What was the most difficult part of Over the Rainbow?

Probably the amount of rehearsing and filming we had to do each week, as it was hard to get much rest in between. But these are skills you pick up and you gain great performance stamina.

What was a typical day like on Over the Rainbow? How does this compare with your daily routine as a West End star at the Palladium?

We had a lot to learn, rehearse and film in OTR, whereas now rehearsals for The Wizard Of Oz are over, it’s just about maintaining a healthy lifestyle and being fully ready for the evening show.

What were your expectations of performing on the West End, particularly working with fellow cast members such as the renowned Michael Crawford? How has your role as Dorothy lived up to these?

It’s hard work and it doesn’t stop; it’s constant and I love it! It’s so rewarding, night after night, and I have a ball with our fantastic cast.

How long does it take for you to transform into Dorothy behind the scenes in hair and makeup?

Every show, we have “The Half”, which is 30 minutes before the show starts, so I guess it takes me half an hour!

How do you immerse yourself in the character before the performance? Do you have any warm-up exercises, script run-throughs or pre-show superstitions?

We do a full cast warm up prior to the show to physically and vocally warm up, and get focused for the performance.

What is your favourite part of the show?

I couldn’t pick one scene, but ‘Emerald City’ is the first time the whole cast are onstage together, so probably that one.

What role would you love to take on next?

There are many roles I’d love to perform or create but who knows what’s in the future!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

Hopefully still being creative. I’d love to have lived in New York for a while too!

What advice do you have for A Younger Theatre readers who want to be future West End stars?

I believe everyone goes about their future in a different way and you know what’s right for you individually, so work hard and follow your instincts. That’s not just for performing, but in every aspect of what you do. Have hope and faith in yourself and what you can achieve!

More information and tickets for The Wizard of Oz here or visit Danielle Hope’s Official website.

Image credit: Danielle Hope Official Website