My Top 5 Showtunes: Matthew Croke

Matthew Croke has recently landed in Agrabah playing the titular role in Disney's Aladdin at the Prince Edward Theatre in London's West End.

His previous credits include Annie Get Your Gun (Crucible, Sheffield), Funny Girl (Menier Chocolate Factory) and Wicked (Apollo Victoria).

We caught up with Matthew and asked him: "If you were stranded on a desert island which five showtunes could you not live without?"

1. "Proud of your Boy" from Disney's Aladdin

Even before I was lucky enough to perform this song in the show every night, I always loved it. It's such a beautifully written song with stunning lyrics by Howard Ashman. Alan Menken really knows how to write beautiful songs.

2. "Endless Night" from Disney's The Lion King

I love this song and even though I heard it for the first time years ago (when The Lion King first came to London) it still gives me shivers.

3. "Something’s Coming" from West Side Story

This song has to be one of the best songs in musical theatre by far. I've been lucky enough to perform this a few times as a cover 'Tony' and each time I did it I just fell more in love with it. AMAZING!

4. "This Is Not Over Yet" from Parade

For years when I’ve ever been asked to sing at a concert or if I’m preparing for an audition, this is always my first choice. It's an incredible song and so enjoyable to perform.

5. "Waving through a Window" from Dear Evan Hansen

I’ve been hearing this song around a lot recently and when you first listen to it you understand why. This song, and the whole soundtrack, is in incredible. Would love to see the show one day!