HCX Campus Celebrity: Daniela Goldaracena Parkes

The student production of Evita at the Exeter Northcott Theatre is coming this January 29th-31st! This captivating story follows the rise and fall of a nation’s hero. It is based on the life of Argentine actress and political leader Eva Perón, who rose from nothing to become one of the most famous political figures in the country’s history. We caught up with ‎Daniela Goldaracena Parkes, who plays the lead role in Evita, Eva Peron.

What made you want to audition for Footlights’ Evita?

I think the story of Eva Peron is just such an interesting one. She’s such an ambiguous character that each production could take a different angle on the way she used her power and that’s what I love about the show. I’ve also always loved musical theatre and have been involved with footlight before so was always planning on auditioning.

What was the first thing you did when you found out you had the lead role of Eva?

I might have cried a little. I was with friends at the time so they all ran towards me and sort of held me as I was a bit of a mess, I then did a little celebration jiggle and called my parents who had been messaging me constantly throughout the weekend.

What has been your favourite thing so far about being involved with this production?

I love the dancing! The dance rehearsals are so great, mostly because the dance troupe is just so talented I could watch them forever.  The social aspect is also lovely because when you are in a production you get to know people so well as you spend so much time in rehearsals.

How are the rehearsals going, is it stressful/enjoyable?

The rehearsals are going well I think! They aren’t too stressful for the moment but are mostly very enjoyable. There is quite a lot of singing and some of the harmonies are quite difficult but I don’t think anyone is too stressed yet.

Is it very time consuming? How do you keep up with your other commitments and your degree?

It’s actually surprisingly not too time consuming. I think this is because we rehearse evenings between 6-9, so it doesn’t clash with any classes. My other commitments are mostly drama based as well so people understand if you’re busy with rehearsals. It’s quite tame for now but I feel like maybe I’ll have to start using my diary more to plan the coming months.

And finally, if people reading this are unsure about whether to see Evita, what would you say to them?

The musical has something to offer for everyone. It’s a historical adaptation of one of the most famous women of Latin America accompanied by some incredible dancing and beautiful songs! The talent that Exeter holds is unreal. I can hardly take it all in and it would be a pity for people to miss out on seeing their fellow anthropologists bust a move!

Tickets are now on sale here:

http://www.exeternorthcott.co.uk/evita

Like the Footlights Facebook page for more details: https://www.facebook.com/exeteruniversityfootlights