Features

My Top 5 Showtunes: Michael Colbourne

We chat to Colbourne, currently playing Enjolras in ”Les Mis”, to find out which songs he likes to ‘hear the people sing’

Michael trained at the Guildford School of Acting, his theatre credits inlcude Follies (Yvonne Arnaud Theatre), The Other School (National Youth Music Theatre), and Tell Me On A Sunday (St James Theatre).

He is currently starring as Enjolras in Les Miserables.

We caught up with Michael to ask: "If you were stranded on a desert island, which five showtunes could you not live without?"


1. "Omigod You Guys" – Legally Blonde

I usually like a good opening as I feel it's what every well constructed musical needs but I LOVE this one. It is so clever and funny I will usually repeat it at least once if it pops up on my iPod.

2. "Step In Time" – Mary Poppins

Every time I listen to this song I get goosebumps, having never seen it I am very excited about the Poppins tour later this year!

3. "Brotherhood of Man" – How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying

This epic song fills me with so much joy. It is relentless. Having done the show and having seen Radcliffe nail it on Broadway I have to admire anyone that can dance manly for 7 minutes and sing strong as well. Many people think singing and dancing go hand in hand but it takes years of practice, this song highlights the stamina needed to really pull it off.

4. "Anything Goes" – Anything Goes

Two words, Sutton Foster.

Very much like my previous choice this song is a prime example of top notch 'singing and dancing'. After watching rehearsal videos and seeing it on Broadway with Foster I fell in love with this song, the musical and Sutton Foster.

5. "Overture/Night Waltz" – ''A Little Night Music"

Last but not least the overture and opening sequence to Sondheim's masterpiece – A Little Night Music, will always hold a place in my heart as I love the songs complexity and themes which construct the foundations of the entire show. I've done the show twice with my good friend Alex Parker and it holds very happy memories.


Les Miserables is running at Queen's Theatre. Click here for more information and to book tickets.