Bah Humbug! Becoming Scrooge for Northern Ballet
Northern Ballet returns to Leeds Grand Theatre next month with their festive production of A Christmas Carol. We spoke to Leading Soloist Jonathan Hanks about taking on the iconic role of Scrooge in this reimagined version of the timeless tale.
Written by Northern Ballet
Becoming Scrooge
How have you been preparing for the role of Scrooge?
I’ve been preparing intensively with Jeremy Kerridge who created the role of Scrooge in the original production of Northern Ballet’s A Christmas Carol. He has given me many useful insights into how to play the character but of course, I have my own ideas. How wonderful to play somebody who has two distinct sides to him, romantic and mean.
How do you get into character before performances?
I get my brain into ‘Scrooge mode’ on my way to the theatre! Then, as our Wigs and Make-up teams apply my makeup, the character stares back at me in the mirror. It’s strange changing from a young man into an old man!
How do you ‘de-Scrooge’/relax after a show?
I treat myself to a facial with facemasks as I feel my skin needs it after all the aging make-up and Scrooge faces!
Jonathan Hanks in makeup with Harriet Rogers for A Christmas Carol. Credit Emily Nuttall.
Bringing the spirit of the season
Why do you think his story has survived the test of time?
It’s a story about the regeneration of the human spirit – going from negative to positive. It’s a story of redemption and everybody loves a story about a soul that’s been saved.
What’s your favourite scene to dance in the ballet?
The solo getting dressed to go to the parade of plenty. It’s the only time in the ballet where I can be happy, express my joy and love for dance, and communicate happiness to the audience. And it ends everything on an optimistic note.
How will you be celebrating Christmas this year?
With my family in Gloucester. We are a very close family and I love Christmas with my loved ones.
Do you have any interesting Christmas traditions?
We always watch the monarch’s speech. We wear party hats, pull crackers, and show our love for each other.
Are you a Scrooge or a Cratchit at heart?
I think I’m a very generous person and very loving – so all my friends tell me!
Jonathan Hanks in A Christmas Carol. Credit Colleen Mair.
Jonathan Hanks and Saeka Shirai in A Christmas Carol. Credit Tristram Kenton.
Harry Skoupas and Jonathan Hanks in A Christmas Carol. Credit Colleen Mair.
Jonathan Hanks and Andrew Tomlinson in A Christmas Carol. Credit Emily Nuttall.
