APRIL 2012
Craig Chalmers on experiencing some Guilty Pleasures
Date: 5 April 2012
He may have performed over 1,400 shows during his almost three-year run playing the title role in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat but for his next stage outing Craig Chalmers is leaving the loincloth far behind him and replacing it with, well, nothing actually! Craig told me all about his raunchy new show, Guilty Pleasures, and the charity which will benefit from the tour.
Can you tell me a little about this new comedy?
First of all, I never thought that after Joseph and the loincloth that I would ever appear in even less clothing but, low and behold, that’s exactly what’s happened. It’s a show that you have to be over 18 to come and see.
There is some nudity at points in the play, but the thing about it is that it’s more of a raunchy carry-on kind of show. The show is very much a physical slapstick sort of piece. The one thing it certainly isn’t is seedy. It’s racy, but it’s essentially an adult comedy.
What is your character, Tommy, like?
The show is set in a ladies’ spa run by a guy called GC, who is played by David Van Day, My character, Tommy, is one of the guys who work there. There’s a slightly older guy called Gordon. He’s been there a bit longer and is a bit more experienced, but he’s got some issues going on that bring a bit more drama to the piece. Tommy, well he just loves his job.
He’s maybe not the cleverest sort of guy but he is good at his job, you know, I think the ladies get a lot of pleasure from his services. I think he fancies himself as a bit of a budding actor too as he really gets into the characters he plays in some of the fantasy role-play scenes. He really goes at it with gusto.
Are there other famous names in the show?
Definitely, it’s a fantastic cast. Everyone knows David from his time in Dollar and his stint in the jungle and – as well as myself – you've also got CJ from the television quiz show,Eggheads. There's another lead guy in it too, but his name hasn't been announced yet. Then there are the ladies. These include Terri Dwyer from Hollyoaks, Pauline Fleming (who was in Coronation Street) and Alexis Strum, who starred in the Eva Cassidy musical, Over the Rainbow.
Are you enjoying straight acting?
Oh yes, for me it’s a great change. For years I’ve been known as a vocalist, and most things that I have done have involved singing at some point, but in this production I get to develop a character without any singing.
I’m finding that I’m really enjoying the comedy too. I’ve done a few pantomimes now and although I didn’t realise I could do comedy, if you can commit to it and you’re not afraid to take the micky out of yourself, then you can really go for it.
Is this your attempt (forgive the expression) to grow up from the Joseph days?
Yeah, I think so. You see, I played that part for three years solid and worked in the vast majority of the theatres in the country. So most people have seen me as this all-singing, all-dancing, goody-goody character. In this production I get to show that there’s a lot more to me. I have grown up in many ways over the years, I’ve got a lot more experience, I got married and, at the end of the day, I am 30 going on 31 now.
Have you been hitting the gym for this part?
Indeed I have. In fact I did eight weeks of intensive gym training before the rehearsal period started, but then I went on holiday to Mexico for two weeks after that – so I’m back on the weights again. I’m not going to be some sort of Men’s Health Magazine beefcake, as that’s not what they want for the character.
They want him to be a “normal” guy, because that’s the whole comedy thing about the spa. It’s not like the Chippendales pleasuring the ladies; it’s just young good-looking guys who have the ability to fulfil the ladies’ fantasies.
You open in two weeks. Is everything on track?
Rehearsals are rehearsals. Some days you think you’re on top of it and then, before you know it, the days slip away and you’re into the technical rehearsal period. I’m just working very hard to make sure that I get it right.
You see, I have this nightmare that I’m on stage and there’s a full house of people watching – and all of a sudden I have no idea where I am, or what I’m doing, so I think that spurs me on to make sure I’m very organised.
You’re also raising money for Everyman, the testicular cancer charity.
Exactly, and I’m really hoping that we can get that message out before the show starts. The charity is directly relevant to part of the storyline and some of the action in the show. Prostate and testicular cancers affect almost 40,000 men each year in the UK.
Everyman is an appeal by the Institute of Cancer Research to raise money for research into these diseases and we are proud to be donating part of the profits of the show to them. It will be great if, as well as coming out to have a good night out and to enjoy the comedic aspect of the show, the audience goes home and takes some time to think about health, particularly men’s health.
by
Paul Lucas-Scott
New Year 2012
Craig's exclusive website interview at G-Live folloing his Pantomime and successful return as Joseph.
Happy New Year! You have just completed your Christmas week as Joseph in Guildford. Did you manage home in time to see in the New Year?
Yes, we finished the show in time to bring in the bells as the show was at 5pm, and I thought it was 8pm!
Pantomime and Joseph in the same month – how easy was it to switch roles?
It was easy enough once I got my ‘Joseph Head’ on. I was very happy with the fans’ comments about the show and how comfortable I still felt playing the part of Joseph.
Am I right in thinking that Aladdin did manage a few lines of ‘Any Dream Will Do’?
Yes he did? After all he did look an awful lot like that Craig Chalmers bloke from the Joseph show...
Your performance as Aladdin was hailed as a great success, how did it feel to be back on ‘home turf’?
Lovely to see all the family again and the panto itself was incredibly fun to do
Some of the special effects were created by one of the local colleges, what was the most difficult part of the process?
Trying to move my body to look like its on a flying carpet when actually I was standing on a concrete floor!
Can we look forward to seeing you in Panto in 2012? You’ve appeared in Sleeping Beauty… Aladdin… what’s next?
All will be revealed as soon as I know myself
You returned magnificently to the stage as Joseph at the brand new G-Live theatre in Guildford. What were your thoughts when you were first asked to perform?
My first thoughts were “Thank goodness I haven’t let myself get fat!”
Had you worked with any of the current Joseph cast before?
It was like “Joseph through the years!” – the wonderful Musical Director, David Steadman, Adam and Stephanie Hepkin, Charlotte Watts, Will Tyler, Scott Watson, Richard J Hunt, and Mike Ward were all there as well as good old Henry Metcalfe as Jacob.
The comments from fans have been amazing, did you enjoy doing the show as much as they enjoyed seeing you back on stage.
I was very pleased with the positive comments from all the fans, even my dad, who is always honest with his critique, said it was the best he had seen me perform in the role. So maybe the break has been good for me.
You’ve got a short break before returning to the stage in the drama Guilty Pleasures; will you be returning to your hobbies of football and golf over the next couple of months?
It’s all about the football and the gym work now for the next eight weeks. Then off to Mexico with my beautiful wife... then straight into rehearsals for Guilty Pleasures.
For further details of Guilty Pleasures click here
22 December 2011 Craig chats to Andy Brown
WEBSITE INTERVIEW
26 August 2010
Craig returned to Joseph this week – as a member of the audience. He was happy to answer some questions about the experience!
Joseph is playing in your current home town of Birmingham this week, have you seen the show?
Yes! I went to see the show on opening night (Tuesday 24th August 2010) I met the company manager for a drink, he is coming to the wedding so we were talking about that, then we went to the dressing rooms to say hi to everyone, watched the show then met everyone for a drink afterwards.
How did you feel watching rather than performing?
I felt absolutely fine, I thought beforehand it might have been a bit weird but it was not the case at all. I think because I did the show for such a long time I knew it was my time to go when I did.
Did anyone recognise you?
Yes a few people came up to me at the interval and I got some people in the row behind asking me during the 2nd act! Then I signed autographs and got some photos taken outside after the show.
Have any changes been made to the show since you left?
Just minor staging stuff but nothing that stood out as major. The hardcore fans might notice the staging stuff!
Would you like a quick to return to the world of musical theatre?
I think that if the part is right for me I would love to have a quick return!
View Craig's video interviews here
OXFORD MAIL
New Horizons
Published 10/06/2010
Joseph star Craig Chalmers is moving on, personally and professionally, writes Katherine MacAlister.
Craig Chalmers, aka Joseph, is back home in Scotland on his parents’ farm when we speak. “The show is 12 miles from our house in Edinburgh,” he says “so I’m staying here this week. And as it’s a farm with lots of out-buildings, we’ve got most of the cast staying here too. They keep popping up in all sorts of places,” he says.
“The sky is blue and it’s beautiful up here at the moment. The cast can’t believe it, after everything they’ve heard about Scotland, so we better make the most of it.” He pauses for a moment before adding: “It’s a long time since I’ve been home.”
Yes Craig Chalmers has been working his little socks off since landing the famous lead in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat after being spotted on the BBC’s Any Dream Will Do back in 2007. But three years and 10 shows a week later, he’s decided to put his hat back in the ring and take a breather.
“I’m on the last leg and then I’m done. I’ve only got nine weeks to go,” he admits, Oxford’s New Theatre being one of the final locations. Done means done with Joseph. He’s going to take the summer off, get married and then see where his future takes him.
“It’s perfect timing really. You only get married once and I want to do it properly. I’ve sacrificed three years of my life to Joseph and three years is a long time. I started when I was 25 and I’ve just had my 29th birthday so it’s been a big chunk of my life.
After the wedding to Jennifer, he has already got a panto booked in. “It will tide me over to next year once the stag, wedding and honeymoon are over,” Craig says.
Of course Craig’s legion of female fans are all dying to know who Jennifer is, and as soon as Craig starts talking about her, you can tell he’s absolutely smitten. Craig then mentions that he’s got a kilt fitting the next day. Technicolour, is it? “Oh no,” he laughs. “I wore a technicolour kilt on Hogmanay, but if I wore it on my wedding day I think Jenny would have a heart attack. We are having haggis, neeps and tatties at the wedding though as well as fish and chips.”
And with a honeymoon already planned, at least Craig should get time for a breather. “Well I hear in the business that you tend to spend the first week asleep when you leave a show and your body collapses,” he grins. “But then I’ve got loads of mates to catch up with, football to play and time to spend with my fiancee.”
So there’s nothing to worry about then. “It’s only natural really to worry about what’s around the corner,” Craig says, ”but I try not to think about it, because I’m a bit older now, I’ve had the whole Joseph experience and I’m happy with where I am. Life is too short for that sort of thing.
“But leaving will be bittersweet because after three years I still love the show. It’s been my entire life and I can’t imagine how emotional the last night is going to be, even after all this time.”
ABERDEEN PRESS & JOURNAL
Handing Over the Coat of Dreams
Colene McKessick talks to Craig Chalmers as he hangs up his Technicolor dreamcoat
Published: 20/05/2010
WHEN the concept of a reality TV show which would find a musical theatre star was introduced, plenty of people had reservations as to how it would work.
As the final of Over the Rainbow, the fourth talent search series from Andrew Lloyd Webber, comes to a conclusion this weekend, no one can doubt that the shows have propelled some talented, although inexperienced, newcomers into the limelight.
Three years ago, Craig Chalmers was one of those contestants, waiting nervously for his critique from Lloyd Webber on the very first talent show, Any Dream Will Do. The show, which searched for a new Joseph to star in Lloyd Webber’s updated production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, propelled Denise Van Outen’s husband, Lee Mead, into the limelight as the winner, but it certainly wasn’t the end of the road for Craig.
Straight after the show, he was approached my musical-theatre producer Bill Kenwright and asked to take on the lead role in the brand new tour of Joseph. He jumped at the chance, but next week, after three years in the role, Craig will perform in his last Scottish date at HM Theatre, Aberdeen.
“After three years, six days a week, 10 shows a week, and 1,400 shows I’m ready for a break, to be honest,” said the 29-year-old from Edinburgh.
“My body and my voice need a break and it’s time for me to live a normal life and see my friends and family for a little bit.
“The TV show seems like a lifetime ago, and it’s crazy how time has flown by. To go from not winning and wondering what was going to happen for me, to getting this role, and having a very successful and long run, it’s been amazing. I’ve enjoyed it immensely and that’s the reason I’ve kept extending my contract. But now it’s time to hand it over.”
Joseph has toured up and down the country, and this will be its third appearance in Aberdeen. Craig admits that, even as leading man, he’s surprised by how successful the show has been, and says that during his three-year tenure he, too, has developed.
“Being asked to do the tour was a dream come true, but it brought a whole load of new pressure on to me, and I really didn’t know how things would go,” he said.
“But the reviews started coming in and they were consistently good, and we were selling out theatres and I realised it didn’t get much better than that. Even now, I still feel pressure, but I go out and perform each night with the same attitude and focus and just enjoy myself.
“I’m very familiar with the songs now, but it doesn’t take away from the excitement of going out on stage each night. People ask if I get sick of the songs, but hand on heart I can say I don’t. I’ve never gone on stage thinking: ‘I really hate these songs,’ in fact, usually I’m thinking: ‘I am knackered.’
“The great thing is I’m performing to a new audience every night, not the same old social club crowds I used to play for. People pay good money to come and see Joseph and they still get excited about it, so the response we get from them is what keeps putting a smile on my face.”
When he entered the competition, Craig had been performing as part of a boy band, and also as a member of an all-male dance troupe, so going through classical voice training and acting lessons was a big change. By the end of the show, the training meant he had gained an extra two notes to his voice and he was able to take on a leading role in a demanding touring production.
“I’ve gained so much experience in Joseph,” he said.
“The sheer madness of touring means you have to learn quickly and the experience has been invaluable. I’ve just turned 29 and I was only 23 when I went on the TV show, and I feel that touring has made me mature. I was just a lad when I entered the competition, but I’m coming out of this tour a man.
“It’s so much more than touring as well. I took part in a special Christmas episode of the show featuring all of the Joseph and Maria contestants; I had a kilt of many colours made for me, and I’ve recorded the Joseph soundtrack album. Performing each night is your bread and butter, but it leads to so many opportunities than I wouldn’t have had otherwise.”
Now that he’s coming to the end of his run, Craig is able to wind down and admits he’s happy his last Scottish date is in Aberdeen.
“I know it sounds cheesy, but I love Aberdeen; it always sticks out in my mind as a favourite venue,” he said.
“We’ve always been treated so well in the city, and the beautiful theatre has always been packed. It’s nice as well because it’s close to home, and I find myself feeling more relaxed. Everything feels more natural, and I can really enjoy myself.”
Craig will be handing over the Technicolor dreamcoat to another Joseph contestant, fellow Scot Keith Jack, who has toured to Aberdeen with his own music show, and Craig says he is very happy with the handover.
“It’s great because he has already toured with us as narrator, so it’s a very natural progression for him,” he said.
“I don’t think he needs any advice from me, but he’ll soon learn that you need to get in shape to pull off wearing a loin-cloth. The loin-cloth diet, as I call it, has been great for me; I’m now down under 11 stone. The show is physically demanding, and as well as singing and acting well, and being charismatic, you have to be able to rock in a loin-cloth, which isn’t the easiest garment of clothing to look good in.”
Craig in now looking forward to his summer wedding, and will be back in theatre for the pantomime season. In the meantime, though, he’ll be catching up with his predecessors in Over the Rainbow, and having had firsthand experience of life after a reality show, has some wise advice.
“I hope those girls grab every opportunity with both hands, don’t let everything get to their head and don’t get above their station. The show was the best stepping-stone for me, and I’m incredibly grateful for all it has done for me.”
ABERDEEN EVENING EXPRESS
I’m Handing Back Dreamcoat
By Scott Begbie 19 May 2010
Any dream wouldn’t do for Scots singer Craig Chalmers...
He had just the one – to play the lead role in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
It was an ambition he threw his heart and soul into during the TV talent hunt Any Dream Will Do. And even though he didn’t win the show Craig won the role in the touring version of Joseph, the hugely popular musical which returns to Aberdeen next week for a third time in almost as many years. Now, though, he is set to bow out of the long running musical, with his two week run at His Majesty’s Theatre from Monday (24 May) marking his final Scottish appearance as Joseph. It’s a decision Craig says he has made with a heavy heart, because his passion for Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic is as strong today as that first moment he put on that technicolor coat.
“I guess all good things must come to an end” said Edinburgh-born Craig. “But the tour itself is so demanding and I need some proper time out. My voice and body need a rest after performing 10 shows a week, six days a week, for three years.”
“If you keep going with that kind of schedule you will end up doing yourself in. I decided I needed a rest, so the perfect time was over the summer when I am getting married,” said Craig, who will wed his girlfriend Jennifer, a marketing executive from Birmingham.
“Plus I have now played Joseph to just about every theatre you can imagine” he said. “You start going back for a second or third time and you want to go out on a high... and not when everyone is saying it would be nice to see someone else in the role for a change.” Which is not to say that Craig, 29, is tired of the role. Far from it. He clearly still relishes it and takes great pride in being one of the longest-running Josephs in the show’s history.
“I do still enjoy singing the songs,” said Craig, referring to the now instantly-recognisable score that includes the likes of Close Every Door To Me, One More Angel and, of course, Any Dream Will Do.
“People always ask me if I’m not sick of the same songs and I always say ‘no’ and that is the honest answer.”
“It has probably been the single most amazing experience of my life and it has been an absolute pleasure to do it. But three years is a long time to be on the road for six days a week.” It is also a long time to keep up the energy to ensure that every single show is like the first night for the audience. How has Craig managed?
“It’s not something I really have to try to do... like I say, I love doing this and I still get very excited at every opening night in a different venue. I spent eight years working pubs and clubs around Scotland as a singer. If anyone has done that, they will know how hard a graft that can be. To go from that, to getting the break I have, and seeing people paying good money to come and see you in packed-out theatres...well, if that’s not enough to excite you, you shouldn’t be in the job.”
Craig admits he’s not going to miss living out of a suitcase. But what will he miss? “Everything...it’s so weird” he said. “Even talking about it, I get a little emotional. I know it’s the right time and I’m ready to leave. But at the same time, I don’t know how I’m going to handle that last show,” said Craig, who bows out in Croydon on July 16.
“It will be after about 1,500 performances. It’s been my life for three years and I’m very attached to not just the show but the whole process of making friends in the cast and the touring and that life. So it will be a very bittersweet and very emotional night.”
And Craig is keeping his options open for the future. As well as looking at more musical theatre roles and some TV presenting, there is another role he is keeping an eye on – Joseph.
“I have always said I would love to come back and do it again if the chance allowed. I’m not stopping because I’ve stopped enjoying it. It could be a case of six months or a year down the line I might come back and do another stint if (producer) Bill Kenwright wants me to do that and the situation allows. You can never say never so I would certainly not close every door on the role – if you pardon the pun.”
DUNFERMLINE PRESS
Craig's Dream Homecoming
Thursday 6th May 2010 by Gary Fitzpatrick
SCOTS singing star Craig Chalmers has enjoyed three years of touring success across the country in the lead role of 'Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat' but he was no overnight sensation.
The Edinburgh star earned his break into the big time the hard way, spending his early showbiz years on the social club circuit, as part of a boy band and also as a 'ladies night' attraction.
He had feared his chance of fame had passed him by after he was voted off 'Pop Idol' but when another opportunity knocked via the BBC show 'Any Dream Will Do' he grabbed it with both hands.
Craig was not the overall winner - he finished fifth - but theatre impresario and show judge Bill Kenwright saw enough to offer him the role of Joseph for his touring show.
Craig said, "He's been like my mentor and a great help to me.
"When I went in for the show I had no theatre background and many of the other contestants had come out of theatre school.
"I had to wing it to a certain extent but I'm a fast learner and a hard worker.
"When I was appearing on prime TV every week I knew that if I didn't make a breakthrough then I probably never would and I'd have had to find something else to do."
His last appearance as Joseph, for now anyway, will be at the Alhambra where the show starts its six-day run on 17th May.
Craig visited the theatre on Tuesday having enjoyed his 29th birthday party the day before and is clearly delighted to be spending time back home.
"It was great to be back here for my birthday and see everyone.
"We had a barbecue and were playing football out in the garden. I had a great time and it's things like that you miss when you're away touring all the time."
Craig is getting married later this year to his fiancée, Jennifer, a marketing executive from Birmingham, who has clocked up around 70,000 miles catching up with him as he toured the country.
"When we finished the last night of the run in Stoke, we drove back to our flat in Birmingham and were packing to come up to Scotland later that day.
"It was after two in the morning by then and I was so excited about coming back home I said, 'Let's just drive up now' and so we did and got to Edinburgh about seven in the morning."
Despite the extensive touring, Craig sounds as enthusiastic as ever about 'Joseph' and is relishing bringing it to audiences on his own doorstep.
"People say to me you must get sick of singing the same songs 10 shows a week but they're completely wrong.
"In fact, the songs are so infectious I sometimes go home singing them.
"Anyway, I tell them that if you had spent years doing the clubs working on new songs and learning the old ones to keep the older people happy then you'd know why I'm delighted to be getting paid to appear in a great show.
"I think people I've worked with realise that I appreciate any success that comes but will keep working hard and not get carried away."
With his time as Joseph coming to an end, Craig is looking forward to enjoying a well-earned break this summer but will be kept busy planning for his big day in Edinburgh in September, as well as the stag night in Prague and the honeymoon in New York.
Looking ahead, Craig will be in panto at Carlisle later this year and hopes to get the chance to do more work in television.
"It's something I believe I'd be good at and I'd hope to settle back in Scotland one day if the work was here."
BUCKS FREE PRESS
National tour of Joseph comes to Wycombe
Wednesday 17th February 2010 By Rebecca Cain
FOR two and a half years Craig Chalmers has been living the dream and appearing at theatres nationwide as the lead in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
In six months time his time will end as Joseph and he will take a step back and marry the love of his life in Scotland.
But how does it feel doing the same show for such a long time?
Chalmers said; “It has been such a great success. It is what I went into the TV programme to play.
“It is a very special part.”
Chalmers appeared in BBC's one search for Joseph-Any Dream Will Do- for Andrew Lloyd Webber's new West End production. He made it through to the final 5 and immediately after his eviction was offered the part in Bill Kenwright's production of Joseph which tours across the country.
He added: “It has been going so well. I have extended my contract time after time.
“I have had a little bit of a holiday. It has been very intense. I do ten shows a week all around the UK.
“I am only human. Some days I feel a bit ill or a bit tired but I have got the experience to get through all that.
“Honestly there is never a day where I think I am sick of this show or I am sick of this part.”
The well known show is the retelling of the biblical story, Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours. Popular songs Close Every Door and Any Dream Will Do feature.
The 28-year-old has just had a reunion with the other hopeful Josephs from Any Dream Will Do with a Andrew Lloyd Webber special TV show.
He said: “It was great to see the boys three years on. I am still in touch with a lot of them as well. Every one seems to be keeping busy.”
Chalmers, who is from Edinburgh, is going to marry Jennifer Smith in September, who was touring with him when I spoke to him.
“We have an apartment in Birmingham together so we get back there as often as possible.
“I have a house in Edinburgh- in my home town but I am not sure where we are going to end up.
“Jennifer is a marketing executive which is a good thing. One of us has a sensible job and one more unpredictable.”
Chalmers hopes that he can go into TV presenting next.
He added: “The show has played a big part in my life. We still pack audiences in every night.
“Every one leaves with a smile on their face. Times at the moment are a bit tough so people like to listen to nice, happy songs.”
Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat is on at the Wycombe Swan from February 22 to 27. Tickets range from £13 to £25. For performance times and tickets call 01494512000 or go to www.wycombeswan.co.uk.
THE NEWS OF THE WORLD
Joseph star Craig Chalmers to tie the knot
Stage pals to wear kilts of many colours
By Ron Moore 15 August 2009
ANY Dream Will Do star Craig Chalmers is to wed his sweetheart - after taking her breath away with a spectacular proposal.
The romantic singer presented thrilled lover Jennifer Smith with a sparkling £4,000 diamond solitaire ring as they watched the sun set on a Mexican beach.
The loved-up pair will now tie the knot in Craig's home town of Edinburgh next September.
And he's inviting the whole cast of stage show Joseph And The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat along - as long as they wear kilts.
Craig, 28, said: "Times like these only come once in your life so I gave it the full shebang. I was months in planning it.
"I organised a sunset cruise and arranged for us to come back to a private beach. Fire torches were set up, and a dining table.
"After we had champagne and lobster, the waiter brought out the ring and I popped the question."
Delighted Jennifer, 19, of Birmingham, added: "It was a total surprise. We were having dinner on the beach - it was so romantic, but Craig is always doing romantic things.
"The waiter brought out a silver salver and Craig asked me to close my eyes.
"When I opened them, I saw he had written, 'Jennifer I love you' in syrup around the edges. In the middle of the plate was a piece of chocolate cake - with a box in the middle.
"It was the most perfect moment of my life. It was beautiful. I cried with joy and we had a little dance on the beach."
Craig and Jennifer are planning a traditional ceremony at Edinburgh's plush Norton House Hotel next year.
But the musical star admits the big day will be tinged with sadness - after he lost his beloved mum earlier this year.
Doting Elizabeth was only 51 when she died from pneumonia after suffering liver problems.
But grieving Craig - who came fifth in the BBC's Any Dream Will Do in 2007 - is comforted by the knowledge she knew he was going to ask marketing executive Jennifer to marry him and had seen the stunning sparkler he proposed with.
He said: "I am really glad that my mum got to see the ring. She met Jennifer and really liked her.
"She was very happy for me and was delighted at the prospect of Jennifer and I getting married."
After tying the knot, Craig and Jennifer will start married life with a romantic honeymoon at Loch Lomond.
Craig said: "We have booked a nice wee lodge in a beautiful spot overlooking the water.
"Jennifer really wants to have a traditional Scottish wedding. She loves it in Scotland and is making sure all the men are in kilts.
"But I won't be singing - I'll let someone else do the entertaining for a change. There'll be enough pressure on me without having to worry about performing."
Craig - who once performed with all-male dance troupe G-Force before having a top ten hit with boyband No Reason - celebrates his second anniversary as Joseph lead next week.
And bosses are so pleased with his performance they have now signed him up until July 2010.
ONE NATION MAGAZINE Interview
Prince Charming – Craig Chalmers
Posted Friday 14th August 2009 by Nige Burton
Nige Burton chats to Craig Chalmers during his hugely successful tour of ‘Joseph’
It was on one of the labyrinth of arterial passageways that snake around Blackpool’s Grand Theatre that I first met Craig Chalmers, the unassuming Scot who has been making the lead role in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Deamcoat his own in Bill Kenwright’s touring production of the show. Chalmers was on his way out to sign autographs for the army of adoring fans waiting eagerly at the stage door; this is a necessary part of the job, but one which he undertakes with real relish and appreciation.
“I’m very grateful to all my fans,” he says with a disarming, almost naive smile. “In almost three years of touring with Joseph they’ve been lovely for the most part – sometimes I have to pinch myself to realise that this is really happening, I try very hard not to take any of it for granted.”
Since Kenwright plucked him from BBC One’s Any Dream Will Do to headline the UK tour of the popular Andrew Lloyd Webber / Tim Rice musical, Craig’s stamina and prowess as a performer have come on in leaps and bounds. After a grounding on the Caledonian club circuit, the whole musical theatre arena was a sea change for the handsome twenty-eight year old singer.
“My mum and dad brought me and my brother up to have real sound values,” he tells me. “They were both so supportive with my career choice, even in the toughest of times, and never once told me to stop dreaming and get a ‘proper’ job.”
And the dream role of Joseph came just in time: “I’d decided to give it just one more year,” says Craig. “If nothing significant had happened in that time, I was going to forget the whole thing, but then along came the TV show.”
It’s lucky for the fans that it did. Chalmers puts every ounce of energy into each performance, breathing new life and vitality into a role which has been delighting audiences of all ages for decades.
“I try to put some humour and movement into the character,” he says. “I think I’ve managed to bring something fresh to the role – I certainly try to give my all in every single show.” Judging by the half hour spent signing programmes and posing for photos after each performance, it seems the fans agree wholeheartedly.
But the gruelling schedule of a touring show can take its toll on any company’s personal lives, and it’s no different for Craig. “My girlfriend Jen and I hardly get to see one another,” he tells me. “She is the most beautiful person, and so supportive of my career. She is very successful in her own job, but travels down to wherever I am every Saturday and stays for the two performances. We usually then head off to her place in Birmingham every Sunday so we get to spend the day together. It means a lot of driving, and it can be exhausting for both of us, but we are totally committed to making it work; we love each other very much and have the most fantastic relationship – she’s my soul mate.”
Family and personal life are important to Craig, and he enjoys very close relationships with his father and brother. His mum, Liz, tragically passed away at the beginning of the year aged just fifty-one, and life without mum has had a profound effect on the young star.
“We were so close,” says Craig, “and it was all so sudden. Mum had only been ill for about a month – none of us knew what had hit us.
“I’m just so glad I was able to show her the ring I’d bought for Jen before she died – at least she knew about the wedding; she was happy for me and knew that I’d found my someone special.”
Chalmers is completely grounded and balanced, despite his current success. It’s refreshing in such a young and talented performer so relatively new to the limelight.
“The success is great,” he tells me, “I absolutely love what I do, but it’s not the be all and end all; I know what’s important in my life, and that my future’s with Jen. If all this came to an end and I had to sweep the streets, I’d just be the best street sweeper I could – it wouldn’t matter as long as we are together and happy.”
But with his current role extended until July next year, the future’s looking bright for this multi-talented young Edinburghian. Formerly of the boy band No Reason, Craig was ultimately offered a deal with BKL records and released his debut album Dream On, on which he collaborated with some of his fellow contestants from Any Dream Will Do. The album achieved some considerable chart success in the spring of 2008, and still enjoys steady sales today. A second album of duets with fellow finalist Antony Hansen is due for release later this year, and will feature songs from the movies.
A criticism often levelled at new stars who have come through the ranks of television talent shows is that they’ve done it the easy way and may lack stamina. It’s a comment often made by stalwart performers who feel they’ve earned their celebrity stripes more traditionally. Chalmers disagrees: “There’s nothing easy about the path I’ve taken to my career,” he insists. “I know people think it’s a fast track to fame, but the years I spent working the club circuits took lots of hard work and determination.”
And stamina is certainly not something Craig lacks either; with only two shows off a week, and now even a couple of Sunday shows thrown in for good measure, there can be no doubting his commitment to the show or his career. “It can be immense hard work.” he tells me, “but I try to look after myself and keep fit, so it’s not too bad really.”
With the attitude, sheer talent, good looks and charm this artist possesses in spades, it can surely only be a matter of time before he makes a natural transfer to a major West End production. “That would be great,” he says with a self-effacing smile, “but I’m happy just to take one step at a time at the moment.”
And it’s precisely that refreshing humility that makes Craig Chalmers a real star – but watch this space: this guy’s destined for the big time.
NEWS SHOPPER, South East London & North Kent
INTERVIEW: actor Craig Chalmers
Wednesday 1st July 2009 By Robert Fisk
TWO years ago Any Dream Will Do finalist Craig Chalmers nervously stood on the stage and hit his first note in front of a packed auditorium.
He had caught the attention of theatre producer Bill Kenwright during the TV show and been booked for a 16-week tour of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
Critics were somewhat suspicious of his reality TV show credentials and the play was only expected to last the scheduled four months.
But it is now the most popular touring theatre production in the country and the 28-year-old has had his contract extended five times.
Craig said: “My life has changed completely since the first show. It has just been like a completely different life and lifestyle.
“My Joseph is quite a physical Joseph and quite cheeky and there’s some comedy parts in it I quite like to do.
“It’s been a fantastic success and I’m really happy I’ve managed to play the role to what Bill Kenwright was hoping for.”
He has done almost 1,000 shows in two years and is no longer nervous about stripping down to a loincloth as he was the first time he appeared at The Churchill.
And Bromley audiences will get to see a slimmer, fitter Craig compared to when he last performed in the town.
“[The loincloth] is a good motivation to keep in shape.
“I’m probably at least a stone lighter than I was when I first came to Bromley because you’ve got to look trim and not make a fool of yourself prancing about in a loincloth.”
He added: “Returning to Bromley is going to be quite meaningful for me because it’s where I had my very first show as Joseph.
“It will be nice to return and be able to enjoy opening night a bit more rather than being absolutely petrified like when I did my very first show.”
Since he started in Joseph, Craig has got engaged to his girlfriend Jennifer who drives to wherever he is in the country to visit him on weekends while he is on tour.
But he has suffered sadness too as his mum died of pneumonia in January.
Craig said: “Mum did get to see a lot of shows and the Any Dream Will Do thing as well so I know she was very proud.
“But I wish she was still around to see my continuing success.
“She got to meet my fiancee and she got to see the ring and everything and she knew about my proposal and what I was going to do so I’m blessed she knew about all that.
“I just wish she could be around for the wedding.
SWINDON ADVERTISER
Five Minutes with Craig Chalmers
Friday 15th May 2009 By Stephanie Tye
IF YOU WERE STUCK IN A LIFT WITH SOMEONE, WHO WOULD IT BE?
David Beckham. He’s my footballing hero and I’d like to grill him about football and his time at Manchester United. I’d also like to find out what Victoria’s really like and if they’re as happy as they say.
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST FEAR?
I’ve always had a fear of losing my hair as Joseph has to have a nice head of hair.
WHAT’S THE MOST EXPENSIVE THING YOU’VE BOUGHT, NOT INCLUDING PROPERTY?
My fiancee’s engagement ring, which is diamond and platinum. We got engaged in February and I picked it out myself and got the size. It took me a couple of months but I managed it in the end.
WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOUR CRIED AND WHY?
I lost my mum recently so have the odd moment now and again thinking about her.
WHAT'S YOUR INDULGENCE?
I do like a bit of wine and chocolate at the weekend. Because I’m away on tour, me and my fiancee always have a proper Sunday roast followed by a nice glass or two of wine white and some chocolates.
HOW ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY ARE YOU?
I’m not particularly green-fingered but I do try. I’d put myself in the could do better category.
HOW MANY TEXTS DO YOU SEND IN A DAY?
Dozens! I don’t get to see my friends and family as much as I’d like while I’m on tour so I’m always texting them to catch up.
WHO’S THE MOST FAMOUS PERSON IN YOUR MOBILE?
Probably Denise Van Outen. She was the last famous person I text - I sent her and Lee (Mead, who won Any Dream Will Do) a message to congratulate them on their wedding.
WHAT ITEM COULD YOU NOT LIVE WITHOUT?
My mobile internet dongle so I can get online while I’m doing the tour.
IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT YOURSELF WHAT WOULD IT BE?
I’d like to be naturally tanned so I did have to keep putting on fake tan every week while I’m playing Joseph
GET BRACKNELL
Craig’s dream has come true
By Paul Cassell April 20, 2009
From club singer to stripper, Craig Chalmers’ life has been as colourful as the coat he adorns in the starring role of Bill Kenwright’s latest touring production, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat – which comes to The Hexagon this week.
The 27-year-old could be forgiven for being sick of Andrew Lloyd-Webber and Tim Rice’s hit musical having sung his heart out every Saturday night when he was a contestant in the 2007 BBC One show Any Dream Will Do.
“Some people might think so, but I am honestly still enjoying it,” admits the young Scot. “It’s just a great part and feelgood show and I’ve got to work with a fantastic cast and I’m improving all the time.”
.jpg) Craig was 25 when he came fifth on the BBC talent show won by Lee Mead. Since then, he’s stayed in touch with many of the other wannabe Josephs.
As a young lad growing up in Edinburgh, where he has recently bought a home, he admits he wasn’t sure whether he wanted to carve out a football career or instead tread the boards.
By his own admission he opted for the “unstable” career path and began singing and entertaining in pubs and clubs when he was 19 – but he has never forgotten his roots.
“I have always had a passion for singing and now I am getting the chance to do it on a professional level,” he enthuses, but still seemingly surprised by his own success.
“I used to carry my own speakers and lights and now have people doing all that and looking after me. I really appreciate everything.”
Craig became a singer for strip group G Force, thrilling many a female fan when he would strip down to his shorts and vest for a Men in Black routine.
He has also done house calls with Fantasy Strip but has no regrets admitting he “was just making a living like anyone else” and insists it has not hindered his rise to fame.
“I suppose it can be a bit snobbish in the theatre if you do not do the traditional drama school thing and get your certificate, but I am just a small lad from a small background that managed to get a chance.
“My family are not musical at all but my parents always encouraged me and I began winning karaoke competitions on holiday singing Michael Jackson songs before my voice broke.”
Without a shade of embarrassment he admits he was a fan of Jason Donovan when the former Neighbours star took on the role of Joseph in the early 1990s, even wanting to mimic his haircut. He finally got the chance to meet his idol while making Any Dream Will Do.
“Jason was a lovely guy, really down to earth. I read his biography and he mentioned about playing Joseph, the money he was on and how he had the chance to play him for another year but turned it down because he wanted a rest. I thought he was crazy.
“He is probably the one I’ve most been compared too but I have been trying my own thing. Joseph can sometimes come across as a bit wimpy and I’ve tried to make him more authoritative as he gets older and the story progresses.”
Craig appeared on the 2003 series of Pop Idol which was eventually won by fellow Scot Michelle McManus and that November was he was number 23 in The Scotsman’s list of most eligible men.
He also sang with boy band No Reason and readily admits both experiences helped him prepare for Any Dream Will Do, where he received professional singing tuition for the first time.
“It is probably quite easy to let things like this go to your head but I do not think it has happened to me and do not think my family would let it,” he says modestly.
“It has taken a lot of hard work to get where I am. I’m glad I stuck it out and got the break, and grateful – it has all worked out so well.”
EDINBURGH EVENING NEWS
Joseph star talks of an emotional return to the Capital
18 March 2009 By Gina Davidson
MEETING Craig Chalmers makes you feel a bit like Dorothy opening the door to the wonderful world of Oz for the first time. Everything else seems to fade to muted tones of greys when you feel the full force of his whiter-than-white teeth, blonder-than-blond hair, and the orange complexion of a spray-on tan.
Of course, the effect calms down after a while as your eyes adjust. But, without a doubt, the Corstorphine singer and actor, who has finally found fame after years of hard graft in grotty clubs, is enjoying being in the limelight – even if it's mean t that personal issues have become national news.
Monday night saw 27-year-old Chalmers back on stage at the Edinburgh Playhouse as Joseph, he of the amazing multi-hued dreamcoat (which might explain why he needs to be so pigmented himself given the competition from the clothing), and it was an evening tinged with emotion. His father Steve was in the audience, but his doting mother Liz was not. She died on January 30 inEdinburgh's Royal Infirmary after contracting pneumonia while being treated for a liver complaint. The Chalmers family had to take the decision to turn off her life support.
"It has been a very hard time," admits Craig. "I'm just going to have to keep a lid on my emotions during this time back in Edinburgh, otherwise they could so easily spill over in the performance because it's always at the back of my mind. I've got to remain professional, it's what my mum would have wanted. She had talked about being here for this run when I saw her in hospital . . . of getting better for March."
He breaks off to regain his composure. There are no signs of tears, but he fiddles with the zip on his suede boots with increasing intensity. "It's nice to be back though. To be able to spend time with my dad and my brother Gavin. We've always been a close family. I'm staying back at home while I'm here for the week . . . helping to put things in order.
"It was all very sudden. She had been getting treated for a liver problem, which she didn't even know she had until it was very bad and her liver was swollen. Her immune system was very weak and she caught pneumonia in the hospital and they couldn't get rid of it.
"She was only 51 and had worked so hard all her life alongside my dad. She was going to retire in a few years and they would spend the last third of their lives relaxing.
"I feel so helpless, you know?" he goes on. "My dad doesn't want me for one minute to stop what I'm doing. He has up days and down. We bought a house together in Tyler's Acre in Corstorphine and he's been doing it up, so that's taken his mind off things. But it's almost finished for renting out, so how he'll be after that I just don't know. They were like two peas in a pod, they did everything together."
He adds: "I'm just glad I got to see her in hospital to tell her I loved her before things got too bad."
He was also able to tell her of his most immediate plan for the future – to get engaged to his Brummie girlfriend, 27-year-old marketing executive Jennifer Smith. The pair met in a hotel in London when he was there to meet with musical theatre guru Bill Kenwright – who produces the Joseph tour.
"Getting engaged hasn't been a reaction to my mum's death. I had been planning it all for six months," he says. "Mum got to see the ring I bought. I was in Glasgow at New Year on the tour and I had the ring by then (platinum band with a princess cut diamond) so I got to show her it then.
"She wasn't feeling great at that time, but we thought it was all a part of going through the menopause. It wasn't long after that she went into hospital. So she knew all I was planning, that I was going to propose to Jennifer when we went on holiday to Mexico, and gave it her blessing.
"That means a lot to me, unfortunately she wasn't around to help us celebrate when we got back."
With his compassionate leave and his two weeks in Cancun ("dad insisted we still go"), Chalmers only came back to the Joseph role a fortnight ago. "We had a great holiday, although it was obviously, at times, filled with grief," he says. "But I'm glad I stuck to the plan and asked Jen to marry me. She wasn't expecting it at all given what I was going through. And I had been a bit of a bugger really, letting her think it wasn't likely to happen for a long time.
"When we got there I spoke to the manager of the hotel and he helped me organise everything. We went out on a catamaran and had some drinks while the sun set, then when we got back to the hotel they'd put a gazebo on the beach. It was all lit up with torches and we had a four-course lobster dinner.
"The waiter brought out dessert on a silver platter and when he lifted the dome cover the ring box was inside. I didn't have a speech prepared, I just told her how happy I'd been since I met her and that I didn't want to spend my life with anyone else. It was a great night. Mind you, I came back a bit flabbier than I like for wearing a loin cloth on stage."
The wedding has not yet been planned and currently the pair can only catch up at weekends when Jennifer flies or drives to wherever Chalmers is performing. "You should see us on Sunday nights – in the bath, sharing a glass of wine, then I have to shave my chest for the role and spray on the tan . . . that's commitment for you," he says.
Commitment and dedication are what Chalmers seems to be all about. He was just 18 when his hopes of becoming a PE teacher were dashed after he suffered an injury to his right anterior cruciate ligament. A successful operation followed but by then he'd opted to set his sights on his other love – drama.
"At Craigmount, I think I was the only boy who did sport and drama," he laughs. "I'd get a ribbing from my footie pals about being a drama bufty. I think it took strength of character back then not to be afraid to admit I liked drama. I also wonder if fate intervened with my injury to put me on this path."
He was voted off Pop Idol (the series which was won by Michelle McManus), despite initially being marked out as one of Simon Cowell's favourites. He then tried to carve out a pop career with west coast boyband No Reason. While they toured with Blue and the Sugababes, chart success was elusive.
Not too proud to help his parents with their sandwich delivery business for a while, he then became a singer for a male strip troupe G-Force, touring some of the grottiest clubs and pubs in Scotland. It wasn't until a friend saw the advert for the reality TV show Any Dream Will Do, with Andrew Lloyd Webber at the helm, that his life changed.
"I did think twice before entering because I'd definitely had my confidence knocked after Pop Idol," says Chalmers. "But I thought Joseph was a role I could do, so I went for it."
Out of 10,000 applicants he made it to the final five, picking up a hoard of "Craigettes" along the way who now run his two websites. Despite not winning the contest, theatre impresario Bill Kenwright decided Chalmers was right for the part in the national tour, and over the months his reviews have got better and better. The tour runs until this August where it finishes in Blackpool. So what then?
"I have had success pretty late on really in comparison to others. I just want to keep on working and improving myself. In the long run I would like to end up back living and working in Edinburgh, working as an actor or even a television presenter. Jen likes the idea of being in Edinburgh too. Home is where the heart is after all."
GLASGOW EVENING TIMES
Dreams do come true…..
15 December 2008 by Brian Beacom
TALKING to Craig Chalmers, Scots star of Joseph at the SECC, is a bit like watching the end of a Frank Capra film.
Imagine a poor wee boy on Christmas morning who wakes to discover Santa has defied all expectations and brought him a fabulous shiny bike.
The boy just can't believe his good fortune.
For the boy, substitute a 27-year-old who not so long ago was playing the grottiest of pubs, struggling to get two nights a week work if he was lucky - and having to change in smelly toilets.
What a difference a few years make. Craig Chalmers is now living the dream.
But he views his fortune in the same way as the boy with the bike.
"I worked for years in the pubs, trying to make it as a pop singer," he says.
"And then came Pop Idol and thinking something was going to happen. But it didn't. Then all of a sudden I went from singing on national TV to being back in the pubs.
"It was hell. I was close to chucking the dream in and working in an office or becoming a sports coach - or whatever."
He didn't. Just when he thought it was all over a friend told him about the Glasgow auditions for BBC1's Any Dream Will Do, the reality show that sought out a Joseph.
However, Craig was reluctant - and scared. "I didn't want to put myself through that experience again, of being judged," he says.
"But eventually I figured Let's go for it.' And I'm so glad. I've learned more in the last year and a half than all the other seven years I've tried to make it in the business."
Craig didn't win Any Dream - he was kicked off in the seventh show so didn't land the west end theatre slot. But he did enough to convince the judges that he could be a Joseph and was hired for a national tour.
"It's a lot to do with luck," he says.
"The part of Joseph just sort of suited me. And I can't believe I'm actually doing this job for a living."
As he speaks he becomes more animated, revealing the highlights that come along with being a theatre star.
He gushes about having done a magazine shoot with OK Magazine, the film premieres he's been invited to.
And he almost can't contain himself when talking about being asked to turn on the Christmas lights at George Square.
"It's mind blowing," he says of the change in his life.
What's great about Chalmers is his apparent sense of perspective.
"I was lucky I'd experienced the bottom end of the industry for many years," he says.
"I've played all the grotty pubs. I'm so glad I learned the hard way. So many people get a reality show and get propelled straight into something like this, but I don't think it's the best way.
"Now, when I walk out into a packed theatre, where people have paid good money to see me perform, I appreciate every second of it."
And you believe him.
He's self-effacing enough to admit that he thought he wouldn't be up to the task of being a Joseph, performing ten shows a week for what will be a two year run.
"I wondered if I could handle all the pressure of a national tour," he says. "Then I thought if I can go through Any Dream Will Do, with all that pressure, I can handle anything.
"Yet, it was hard at the start. I had to get my voice and body ready. But this is my third contract extension so I must be doing ok."
He's matured into the role. He's become a classic Joseph and the crits have been great.
But there's another feature of his life, he reveals, which also leaves him in awe. It's his girlfriend, Jennifer, a marketing executive from Birmingham.
"I met her in a hotel in London when I was there to meet producer Bill Kenwright. And, well, Bob's your uncle."
He couldn't be more happy.
"Every Friday she finishes work and then drives or flies to meet up with me. It's fantastic."
And right on cue, his phone rings. And it's Jennifer.
"She has a sixth sense," he says laughing. "She knows when I'm talking about her."
Are wedding bells in the offing?
"Probably," he says. "She's certainly not one hundred per cent against the idea."
And neither is Craig.
"To be honest, I was always a bit of a ladies man in my younger days. Not now. I'm a one woman man."
He says he's bought a house in Scotland recently and would like to come back and bring up a family. And perhaps try his hand at TV presentation or acting.
Are there any low moments now?
"Well, I do feel a bit disappointed I can't play football now. The football dream I once had ended when I tore a cruciate ligament at the age of 18.
"And now I can't play. You can't get injured when leading a national theatre show. "
He adds, grinning; "But beyond that, and apart from the fact I've got to stand on stage every night in a loin cloth, I just think life's fantastic."
Joseph and the Amazing Technicoloured Dreamcoat, at the SECC from December 22 for three weeks.
THIS IS NOTTINGHAM
Stage interview: Craig Chalmers in Joseph
Friday, October 03, 2008
FOR weeks his face was a fixture on prime-time TV, chasing the title role in Andrew Lloyd Webber's West End production of Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat on the BBC talent search Any Dream Will Do.
Despite losing out to Lee Mead, Craig Chalmers has been playing Joseph around regional theatres for more than a year.
"It's been a hard slog but I'm really enjoying it," says the 27-year-old Scot.
"It's been a great experience over the last year and a half being able to do the Any Dream Will Do programme and then go on to play Joseph for such a long time."
But musical theatre wasn't his first choice."I kind of came from a pop background," he says.".
"I used to do my own gigs around Scotland, ladies' nights, and holiday parks, singing pop songs and classic cabaret. I was also on Pop Idol in 2003 and in a boy band in 2004 up in Scotland. We had a minor hit up there. It was nothing to write home about but I performed alongside Blue, Sugababes and Girls Aloud. So I've had a very colourful career so far."
Earlier this year he released the album Dream On, a collection of show tunes and pop covers featuring other runners-up from Any Dream Will Do. Tunes like My Girl, No Matter What, Can't Help Falling In Love and All I Have To Do Is Dream. And there's another one in the offing. And it'll be more of the same.
He's already recorded a duet with fellow finalist Antony Hansen (he plays Pharaoh in Joseph) for a single, a slowed down version of Herman's Hermits' I'm Into Something Good.
No, it's not the sort of music Chalmers is into.
"I like my R&B and hip-hop really. I'm singing musical theatre all week so it's nice to get a bit of a break at the weekend and listen to something I've kind of grown up with.
"Joseph is so, all genteel and happy happy it's nice to listen to something a bit different."
Such as Ne-Yo and Chris Brown and a bit of Nickelback.
Does he go to gigs?
"I don't really get a chance."
He does but he chooses to see theatre.
"I was off on Sunday and I took my girlfriend in to London to see a show called Stomp."
Turns out he doesn't really do gigs.
"It's not really been part of my culture. I've never been one to go out to see gigs. I've always bought CDs I like and sing along at home."
His girlfriend works in marketing in Birmingham and sees him at weekends wherever he may be.
"We did a shoot for OK! magazine and we got a six page spread.
"She liked all that.
"Her mum walks about with OK! magazine to show all her friends."
Chalmers hasn't been to Nottingham before but reckons on a night out while here.
"I'm from Edinburgh and a lot of my mates are coming down to Nottingham one weekend that I'm there."
Why?
"There's something on like a marathon or a fun run. Either that or a poker night."
He's already booked his digs, a flat near the Theatre Royal.
Doesn't someone do that for you?
"We get a touring allowance and if you want to spend more or less then it's up to you."
So you could sleep in a doorway for the two-week run and pocket the cash?
"It's nearly happened a couple of times to some of the cast because they've not been organised."
THE CHORLEY CITIZEN
Interview: Craig Chalmers
Friday 27 June 2008 by John Anson
Craig Chalmers thought his chances of a leading stage role had disappeared when he was voted off TV’s search for Joseph. But now he’s touring the country in his dream role.
THE curtain has just gone down on Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat as I ring to speak to Craig Chalmers in his dressing room.
Once again he’s received a standing ovation from fans who have loved his performance in one of the country’s favourite musicals. And yet, a year ago, Craig’s showbiz dreams appeared to be at an end after he was unceremoniously booted off Any Dream Will Do, the BBC’s prime time Saturday night show to find a new West End star.
With his cheeky grin and Scottish accent, the former boyband member may have had fans among the viewers but he came in for criticism from the the show’s expert panel who doubted his West End potential.
“All the criticism I received was pretty constructive,” said Craig. “They challenged me to take their comments on board and I have certainly done that.
“At the time it was pretty stressful and getting knocked off the show really hurt but it has made me a stronger person.
“One thing’s for sure, I’m a far better performer now. My vocal range is definitely improved and expanded and doing the show I’ve lost a stone and a half for when I wear the loin cloth!”
Craig has been performing the lead role in Joseph for months, packing out theatres around the country — and he’s contracted to carry on touring until January next year.
“By then I’ll have been doing 10 shows a week for a year and a half,” he said. “That’s a lot of shows. I had three days off the other week but they were the first shows I’d not done in six months. It’s amazing how the body and the voice adjust to such a demanding regime.”
With so many stage appearances behind him, how does Craig manage to keep his performance fresh?
“You’ve just got to be aware that every night you are playing to a different audience and that that performance is the one they want to see. I have worked on things vocally during the run and I’m constantly making adjustments to my performance.”
Since the tour started there have been numerous cast changes but Craig has remained constant in the lead role.
“I suppose I’m an old hand now, “ he said.
A number of the finalists from Any Dream WIll Do have been touring with the show, including series runner-up Keith Jack who played the show’s narrator.
With the rest of the year mapped out for him what, I wondered, were Craig’s plans after Joseph.
“I’ve got a single out this summer with Antony Hansen, who is Pharoah in the show,” said Craig. “But next year, who knows? I’d like to do TV work at some time, perhaps presenting, and I’d like to do more theatre work. Whatever I do it has to be right for me.”
LIVERPOOL ECHO
WITH his finely-honed six-pack Craig Chalmers is wowing audiences in the role of Joseph.
Mar 6 2008 by Janet Tansley Liverpool Echo
Craig Choses his 'Last Supper' Menu
Indeed, watching him in that loin cloth, it’s hard to believe he likes his food as much as he does.
Craig was the fifth place finalist in hit-BBC show Any Dream Will Do and is currently starring at the Empire Theatre, Liverpool as Joseph in Bill Kenwright’s UK tour of Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
Craig's album, a collaboration with other members of the Any Dream Will Do show, has recently entered the album charts.
So he’s a pretty busy boy. Which is probably why he took no time at all in choosing the menu for his last supper,
And it’s a meal many would be happy to share with him.
First things first ... he says that for drinks ”I would have vintage red wine”.
Okay, so that’s the drinks order sorted. Now can we get back to food please?
“For my starter I would have either a prawn cocktail with melon or a nice bruschetta,” says Craig.
“I can never make my mind up when I go out so my girlfriend and I usually order them both and share!”
For the main course, Craig keeps it traditional.
“It would have to be a traditional Sunday roast with all the trimmings.
“I would have turkey, roast beef, mashed potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, stuffing, parsnips, peas, carrots, all with cranberry and apple sauce and gravy – now is that detailed enough?”
Absolutely.
And dessert?
“I don't usually eat dessert but, seeing as it's my last supper, I would have a nice cheesecake ... with extra cream!”
Adds Craig: “I would have my last meal in a romantic restaurant, preferably somewhere warm so we could be outdoors, overlooking the sea and some palm trees.
“And I would have it with my girlfriend, Jennifer, who always travels to see me at weekends wherever I am in the country.”
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