Features

My Top 5 Showtunes: Noel Sullivan

The actor tells us the musical numbers he couldn’t live without

Ben Hewis

Noel Sullivan rose to fame as one-fifth of pop group Hear'Say alongside the likes of Myleene Klass and Kym Marsh.

With theatre credits including Fame, Grease, Rock of Ages and We Will Rock You, Sullivan's next stage role is in the new musical Tiger Bay, which runs at the Wales Millennium Centre from 13 to 25 November.

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

1. "America" from West Side Story

One of the first musicals I ever heard on vinyl. I remember the cracking of the needle and then the sound of the claves. It's an amazingly descriptive song that reminds me of kids in a playground taunting each other. The changing rhythms and orchestration are incredibly exciting.

2. "Seasons of Love" from Rent

Stereotypically stagey but I love the gospel harmonies and the individual voices taking their turns. It reminds me of being a teenager and seeing the show. It was inspiring hearing pop, soul and rock voices being used in a fresh, new and exciting way.

3. "One" from A Chorus Line

The epitome of big brash ballsy Broadway. It has a brilliantly regimented sound that just conjures images of the full out musical experience. I love the counterpoint melody and screaming brass. Just makes you want to reach for a top hat.

4. "Under Pressure from We Will Rock You

Such a complex and vocally challenging song to sing. I loved performing in We Will Rock You, every night there were certain songs that you couldn't help but be swept up and lost in. "Under Pressure" was one of them. A testament to the incredible composition skills of Queen.

5. "Your Day is Here" from Tiger Bay

A song from the new musical I'm working on at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff this November. A truly original British musical. I play Harbour Master of Cardiff docks and the score, written by the ridiculously talented Daf James, is stunning. It's my character, Seamus O'Rourke's 11 o'clock number and is one of the most exciting pieces I've ever sung!