My Top 5 Showtunes: Waylon Jacobs

Waylon Jacob's theatre credits include Chicago, Rent, Ragtime, We Will Rock You and The Lion King.

He is currently starring in Yank the Musical at the Charing Cross Theatre.

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

1. "He Lives In You (reprise)" from Lion King

My first West End show and what an experience that was. I have so many wonderful memories and everytime I hear this song I remember those beautiful faces that helped me settle in, worked with me and nurtured me into a being a better person. I remember the joy and happiness that would beam out through me if I were covering one of my swing tracks or standing front and center giving the best possible Simba I could. This is a number that is part of who I am, I love it, I love the meaning behind it and I LOVE the complete unity it brings!

2. "I'll Cover You (reprise)" from Rent

Another reprise and another full company number! Clearly I love a full ensemble number. Rent will always hold a special place in my heart and this song is and will always be one that makes the hairs on my arms stand up and my eyes start to water. A love song like no other. There isn't much else I can say about it.

3. "Wait For It" from Hamilton

When I first listened to this album I had shivers, it excited me so much and just knew it was something special that I had to be a part of. As with Ragtime any of the songs in this show could be here, but I chose this one as it is a massive turning point and insight into the mysterious Burr, there is so much being revealed in this moment.

4. "Till We Reach That Day" from Ragtime

Many numbers from this show could have easily been here as it is just a beautiful score but, this one wins! Picture this: Open Air Theatre, the moment that happens prior to this number (no spoilers here), and then the heavens open and it's as if nature is on you side. That and the gifted voice of Sandra Marvin backed with a full ensemble moving you to tears earns this a spot in my top fiive.

5. "Starlight Express" from Starlight Express[[youtube:jkXtt0bemFU|width=620|height=370]]

This show is always going to have a special place in my heart, it's the one that started it all, I'll never forget seeing this show and wanting to be involved in musical theatre and also how can you not love a show performed on skates!