Theatre Q&A: Rebecca Lock

The show is running until 12 Jan. How will you juggle the show with your Christmas plans?
This schedule is a dream for me because we get four days off over Christmas, so I get to go home to my son and my husband and have a family Christmas as normal, which is lovely.

What makes Kiss Me Kate a good festive production? 
It’s proper showbiz. It has everything – comedy, wonderful music, incredible costumes and there’s genuinely something for everyone: a real Christmas treat.

Tell us about your character Lilli. Did you look to any particular interpretation of her for inspiration?  
I saw a production in London years ago, but I don’t really remember it clearly to take inspiration. I’ve always been a fan of the show and have always loved and known the music, and of course had my eye on Lilli as a possible role to play. I didn’t look as much to a performance of Lilli as inspiration. I more looked towards actresses from the period it’s set in [1940s] – women like Joan Crawford or Rita Hayworth.

The show is a collision of musical theatre and Shakespeare. Are you well versed in both? 
I’ve been very lucky in my career that I’ve actually done some Shakespeare. I was in a production of The Tempest a few years ago and I trained at Central School of Speech and Drama where we did a lot of Shakespeare, so it’s all part and parcel.

What would your ideal Christmas Day and Boxing Day look like?
Christmas Day would be spent in pyjamas, with open fire in the lounge and lots of lovely food with my family around.. Oh, and of course some Bing Crosby on the radio – very chilled! Boxing Day for me is usually a nice bubble ‘n’ squeak brunch with family where we play games and just get to be really silly.

What’s the best festive snack?
Crikey! I am a sucker for port and stilton. Cheese and crackers, and port – win!

What’s your favourite Christmas film?
It’s A Wonderful Life. James Stewart is one of my favourite actors and it’s the best Christmas film there is.

What’s the worst Christmas present you’ve ever been given and, crucially, were you a good enough actor to act pleased?
Oh, gosh! Not so much the worst, but a few years ago I got given some candles from someone in my family that were so rubbish it became a bit of a joke that every year someone would get these candles. They’ve been through my sister, aunt and my mum. These rubbish, faded candles just keep going round!

Check out our complete theatre listings for over the festive season and beyond here.