Interviews

Introducing Nell Bailey...

It is the half, which seems a strange way to view time, but not in the theatre… this means that I get a few spare minutes in the café with the lovely Nell Bailey, the upcoming young actress in Bristol Old Vic’s current production of Far Away directed by associate director Simon Godwin and causing something of a stir and debate…

So how old are you Nell?

I’m 12, 13 in 6 days!

And are you from Bristol?

Well, I was born in London, but now I’d say I was from Totterdown!

How long have you been a member of the young company here at Bristol Old Vic?

Since year 5! I have done 4 shows with the Young Company and quite a few other shows but none as good!

Have you always wanted to be an actress?

Well, my mum was an actress and I come from a performing family so, kind of yes… I wanted to be like my mum. I wanted to be an actress since I was 4! And I haven’t given up the idea yet; I’ve had other ideas like being in fashion and working for Vogue! Or being a forensic scientist because of watching CSI!

How did you hear about/gain the part?

I heard about it through a Young Company letter that I almost left behind!

Then I went to a casting where there were lots of other girls, one had come along way on the train. And it was a bit scary. Then I had to wait painstakingly for a week and I went on and on about it to everyone at school. Then I just thought ‘I probably didn’t get it.’ And then I did!

How have you found the process?

Hard. Intense. It really works your brain, trying to find all the meaning, but then that is what gives you the performance. I love the performance, but sometimes I get really tired and I don’t feel like doing it at all, but then I push on through and I love it again!

What do you think Far Away is about?

A world turned upside down and shaken; it makes you want to do something, it leaves you thinking. My dad talks a lot, but after seeing it he was quiet he was just contemplating it for ages.

What has been the most exciting thing to come out of this opportunity?

Meeting the best people! And thinking yes, I’m a part of this. I could do this as my job; I would do this as my job. Even if I didn’t get paid, I’d get a night job and be tired!

What’s next for Nell Bailey?

I want to continue with the Young Company and keep making shows; I am going to be apart of the upcoming show Fallen that is happening at the Harbourside festival this year. And maybe at some point I could become an assistant for the young company over time and learn how to direct as well.

What do you think the Young Company has given you?

Confidence, friends! The attitude to want to do it, and the outlet to express yourself.

What three things do you love about acting?

-The people you meet

-The feeling of being on stage

-Costumes!

What three things do you dislike about acting?

-Having to do it when you’re tired

-People that aren’t fun

-Bad costumes!

Interview 2010 by Charlie George.

Nell Bailey is playing the young Joan in Far Away.

Far Away is running till the 9th June don't miss you're chance to see it!
http://www.bristololdvic.org.uk/769.html

For more information on the Bristol Old Vic young company Get Involved via the link below:

http://www.bristololdvic.org.uk/bovyc.html