The New Theatre Royal Lincoln’s pantomime Aladdin opened on 5th December, with Roger Wright playing the Genie of the Lamp alongside a cast including Louis Smith MBE and Ian Waite, and is running until 7th January. Roger previously played Marvin Gaye in Dancing in the Streets at the Cambridge Theatre and was part of the cast of Thriller Live, and he originated the role of Simba (adult) in The Lion King in the West End. As a voiceover actor, Roger voices characters in the Netflix animated series Storybots and the UK dub of Ada Twist, Scientist. We caught up with Roger, who spoke about playing the Genie of the Lamp in Aladdin at the New Theatre Royal Lincoln, originating the role of Simba in London’s The Lion King and his voiceover work.
What are you looking forward to for performing in Aladdin at the New Theatre Royal Lincoln this Christmas?
I am looking forward to creating joy, laughter and happy memories for the audience.
What do you enjoy most about working in pantomimes and interacting with the audiences?
I love the slapstick fun, quick-witted humour, and crowd interactions.
You are playing the Genie of the Lamp, how did you prepare for the role?
I watched the movie with Robin Williams as well as the recent Will Smith movie.
How was it meeting the rest of the cast and reading the script for the first time?
Meeting the cast was like a blanket of warmth, everyone in the production is lovely.
Who do you think will enjoy this year’s production of Aladdin and why would you recommend booking tickets?
We have a star-studded, talented cast, where everyone will bring something to the show, from incredible dancing and singing, to great jokes. It’s going to be so much fun.
You’ve previously portrayed Marvin Gaye in Dancing in the Streets at the Cambridge Theatre and been in the cast of Thriller Live, what were both shows like to be part of?
I love every show I take part in and always give my best. I love everything from the prep through to showtime.
What are some of your stand-out memories from playing Simba in the original West End cast of The Lion King?
Some of my stand-out memories from playing the role of Simba had to be meeting King Charles (then Prince Charles) and Sir Paul McCartney.
How did you find the experience originating the role in London and what was Simba like to play?
It was a huge responsibility, but I was fuelled with excitement, positive energy, and hard work. It was great fun.
Can you tell us about voicing characters in the Netflix animated series Storybots and the UK dub of Ada Twist, Scientist?
I enjoy exploring voices of characters. I have always wanted to play a superhero and some of this voiceover work has given me that opportunity.
Do you have any favourite highlights of your career so far?
My pop group, Fresh (which I formed with my brother), and producing my own productions – You Can Do It and The Feel Good Show.
How did you get into performing and was it something you always wanted to do?
I walked into the wrong audition room and got the job!
What are some of your favourite theatre shows to watch?
Motown the Musical, Ain’t Too Proud, MAMMA MIA!, Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera.
How do you like to spend your free time?
Reading, going to the gym, walking, travelling, cycling, dancing and spreading love and joy.
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