We got the opportunity to chat to Amy Lennox all about her lead role in David Bowie’s Lazarus, growing up around the arts and more, so read on to find out what the incredibly talented Amy had to say in our new interview!
Amy Lennox
You’re currently playing the lead in David Bowie’s Lazarus – what’s that experience like?
It’s fair to say it’s a one-off experience – there’s nothing else like it – it’s quite difficult to give this piece a label, ie., is it a play? Is it a musical? It’s like being part of a wonderful, unearthly art installation.
Following Bowie’s death earlier this year, do you feel an added pressure to really do the show justice?
I wouldn’t say I feel any added pressure no. It’s just a total pleasure to be part of one of his last projects. I’m working with the same creatives that worked so closely with him and if anything, the piece has improved thanks to its informative and successful run in New York. The only sad thing is not getting to meet the man himself; that would have been quite incredible.
The show runs for 13 weeks in total – what’s your schedule like when you’ve got a job this long?
Much like any show schedule, no matter how long the contract. I go to the gym a few times a week, my body clock is not exactly ‘normal’. I get home around 11pm, have my dinner, go to bed around 2am and wake up around 10am-ish. What I do love about a shorter contract like this one is that I’m always looking ahead and working towards future opportunities, keeping the ball rolling. It’s great to keep busy.
How do you manage to balance your professional and personal life?
My boyfriend is an actor so most of the time we are on a very similar timeframe which helps a lot! Sometimes we are not which can be frustrating, but we have probably gone through every scenario now, so we are pretty good at it!
You’ve grown up with the arts in your childhood and teen years – so what are some of your earliest and best memories of the arts?
Working in Am Dram companies in Aberdeen; I got my confidence from that. I remember being so scared to sing or perform in front of anyone, I didn’t have a clue what I was doing, I was involved in show after show and I learned so much from just doing it. It became my absolute priority in the end and I met so many friends out with school that I’m still in touch with. I think it was a very healthy thing growing up to be able to do that and meet and work with people from all ages and backgrounds.
What have been some of your biggest challenges in the industry to-date?
Oh the usual – there have been times when I couldn’t pay my rent. I’ve had to learn to reign it in and budget – not one of my strong points! I’m not very good at being out of work, if I’m kept busy I’m fine, but if auditions get quiet it’s torture to me. I don’t think that will ever change!
Who or what would you say have been some of your biggest influences?
I don’t think I’m particularly influenced by a particular person… When I see something that moves me, be it a performance of something or someone – that inspires me and reminds me why I do what I do.
Is there a part or show you’d like to be a part of in the future you’ve not yet been a part of?
I’d like to be in the next Star Trek movie – it’s a lifelong dream of mine and I wouldn’t say no to a nitty gritty period drama either!
I’m not keen on stepping into a role someone else has already created; it’s always a bit stifling and painting by numbers; not nearly as fun or satisfying.
Do you have any tips for young aspiring actors who want to break into the industry?
Yeah – only do it if there is definitely nothing else you think you’d enjoy the same or more. When it’s good, it’s really good and when it’s bad, it’s tough. And be prepared to potentially live an unconventional life compared to your peers…
Tagged in David Bowie