My Top 5 Showtunes: Tracy-Ann Oberman
Tracy-Ann Oberman's theatre credits include Earthquakes in London (Tour), Old Money (Hampstead) and McQueen (St James and West End). TV credits include EastEnders, Friday Night Dinner and Toast of London.
She is currently starring as Golde in the Chichester Festival Theatre's production of Fiddler on the Roof.
We caught up with Tracy-Ann and asked her: "If you were stranded on a desert island which five showtunes could you not live without?"
5. "Tradition" from Fiddler on the Roof
It’s a wonderfully uplifting opening which sets out the stall of what the piece is going to be about.
4. "Another National Anthem" from Assassins
Sondheim’s brilliant piece about the presidential assassinations captures the American dream going awry. If the dream doesn’t work for everyone, it has the potential to twist into bitterness and disfunction.
3. "Another Suitcase in Another Hall" from Evita
This song captures a moment in the life of an itinerant woman dependent on the kindness of strangers.
2. "Superstar" from Jesus Christ Superstar
I just love this musical – it’s political, clever, beautifully written and gripping.
1. "Turn it Off" from The Book of Mormon
After Fiddler, this is one of my favourite musicals. Irreverent, clever, filthy, political and offensive – all wrapped up in a perfect score, while being shocking and challenging.
PS If I’d ever seen Hamilton, I’m sure I’d have chosen one of its songs too. It’s the Breaking Bad of musicals – people are obsessed!
