Name: Craig McKenzie
Age: 20
Course: Music Theatre
Relationship Status: Taken
This weeks cutie is Craig McKenzie, a third year Musical Theatre student and co-director of the upcoming musical Grease, being produced by Follies. He is also multi-talented when it comes to musical instruments and occasionally at showcases does a casual backflip. We decided to take a few minutes to have a chat with Craig and ask about his last year at University and how he has found his three years here.
We hear you’ve got a very exciting project coming up… Tell us more!
Within Falmouth and Exeter there are a variety of different societies for students to be involved in, from things like History society to African Caribbean society, and even things like Quidditch! The society I am involved in is called Follies Musical Theatre Society, and we are in the midst of rehearsals with our production of Grease. Harriet Wheeler and myself are co-directing the show together, and are extremely excited to engage with the 50s style and upbeat vibes this particular musical has to offer.
What’s the most exciting aspect of directing such an iconic musical?
Personally, I am just excited to direct a show with an amazing cast, as I believe with everyone working hard as a team, we can boost the society and make it more known among Falmouth. My main hope is to ensure the happiness of the audience, along with everyone involved in the cast and everyone behind the scenes. Follies is all about having fun while doing something you love, and Hattie and I feel Grease is the perfect way to stick to this.
If you were to be in Grease who would you want to play and why?
I personally would love to play Eugine, he might be a smaller part but I can imagine it being the most fun to characterise and rehearse, although there aren’t many boring parts in a show like Grease.
This is your 3rd year in Falmouth, are you looking forward to moving on or will you miss the Cornish town?
Of course I am excited for new experiences and beginning my own work, but Falmouth will always be a special place for me and it will definitely be missed.
What is your favourite thing to do in your spare time at Falmouth?
In the summer I enjoy taking advantage of the beaches close by, which is one of Falmouth’s main selling points, while in the winter I spend a lot of time huddled in the variety of pubs along the high-street. Although as a third year student I’ve spent the past month swimming in word documents, or crying in the library.
Haven’t we all. Good luck with your final term Craig, we can’t wait for Grease! Look at for the show being advertised around campus for information.