Really Useful Theatre - 12th August 2001

Interview met Arvid Larsen as Jesus on the Jesus Christ Superstar UK Tour. Arvid, thank you for giving
us a few moments of your time between performances.... we have a few questions that our visitors
have sent in for you.

What's been your most embarrassing moment on stage?

While I was understudying the role of Jesus in Germany I forgot my lines. It was during the part where I
am with Pilot on the steps in Act II � I have got no kingdom in this world�� and I completely forgot the
next line and started singing in gobbledy gook�I don't think anyone noticed,

Would you ever consider doing any straight acting for TV or film?

Definitely, its something I would like to pursue after I finish in Superstar.

What or who inspired you to take your chosen career in theatre?

When I was 16 I saw a production of Les Miserables and immediately knew what I wanted to do. I had
always enjoyed singing and so decided to pursue it as a career.

If you could play any part in any musical, who would it be?

I think it would be Joe Gillis in Sunset Blvd. Its such a great singing and acting role. Fantastic musical
too.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?

Still acting and singing with some TV and film work as well.

I'd like to know which of the past Jesuses that have played in this show is your favorite?

I really liked Steve Balsamo's portrayal of Jesus. He is an amazing voice.

How many CDs of Jesus Christ Superstar have you got.

I only have one � the Lyceum version. I also have the record of the film which I must get on CD.

What has been your favourite place that you have visited whilst on the 2001 U.K tour?

So far, I have really liked Nottingham. It is a great city; lots of bars and restaurants. It has a very good
energy. I also had nice digs there which helps.

The question I want to ask is that in the scene where Jesus is pushed down the stairs have u ever hurt yourself when doing this scene.

I don't really. I get quite sore knees but generally speaking it doesn't hurt.

I'd like to ask how he prepared himself for the role of Jesus Christ?

I read a few books about Jesus as a man while we were in rehearsal. Preparation everyday includes
warm ups; physical and vocal. I must also keep up my level of fitness. I spend an amount of time in my
dressing room before I go on stage getting my thoughts together and taking time to mentally prepare
myself for the role.

I was just wondering how you felt when being told you had got the part? Also how do you feel now, this far into the tour?

I was over the moon when I discovered I had the part. I am still really happy to be involved in such a
great production.

Your Part as Jesus is so demanding on your body & mind - How on earth do you manage to switch off every night? & where do you get the energy to play Jesus & travel around the U.K?

I tend to relax after the show by going out with friends, reading a book or watching TV. It is important to
relax before doing a performance and so I tend to get a good night's rest and generally try and relax
before we are called for warm up. �Get in' days to a new venue are generally the most tiring as you will
arrive at a venue, have the technical rehearsal and then a show in the evening.

Thank you for your time Arvid and good luck with the rest of the tour.

Thank you and good bye!