Interview with James Sutton

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James Sutton, is an English actor, best known for playing John Paul McQueen in the British Channel 4 soap opera Hollyoaks from 2006 to 2017, and Ryan Lamb in the ITV soap opera Emmerdale from 2009 to 2011.

Returning to the stage in Torben Betts’ new play, “Caroline’s Kitchen” which will tour the UK before having its US premiere in New York in the spring. We are looking forward to seeing the show when it hits Kent at The Assembly Hall, Tunbridge Wells. We got to speak to James about his role in the show as Graeme and his first time touring with a show.How did you get into performing, was there a performance you saw that resonated with you?

I got into performing when I was a boy. I had way too much energy for my poor mother to cope with, so she sent me to the theatre to tire me out.

I’m still not tired.

What has been your favourite role you have played and why?

‘Cosmo’ in The Pitchfork Disney. I seldom get the chance to play dark, twisted characters, so it was a real joy to get to do so.

Can you tell us about your current show Caroline’s Kitchen what is it all about and what drew you to the role you play?

It’s a dark comedy set in the kitchen of a TV chef. I play Graeme, her hunky(?) handyman. What are the challenges of performing out of town with shows?

This is the first time I’ve toured a play so for me, being away from home for such a long time is the biggest thing. 

Where has been your favourite place to perform on stage and why?

I’ve done some open-air Shakespeare at Stafford Castle, which is one of the most beautiful settings, Id have to say there.

What’s been a funny moment for you on stage?  Any mishaps you want to share!?

I once tore my trousers on stage, right before singing a solo. The first few rows got an absolute eyeful.

If you hadn’t had been actors what would you be doing?

Probably writing or directing. I can’t imagine not being part of this industry on some level.What do you like to do in your free time?

I’m an obsessive football fan and can be found waxing lyrical about the mighty Liverpool FC on various podcasts and media platforms.

Are you excited to take the play to New York, how do you think audiences will react?

We’re all very excited to take the play to New York, it’s a great opportunity for us. It’s going to be interesting to see what the audiences out there think of the play, but the themes and message of the play should translate very well. I can’t wait.

Is there a role regardless of gender you would love to play in a show?

I’ve always wanted to play Orsino in Twelfth Night, if someone could make that happen, that’d be splendid.

 Where can people follow your work on Twitter/Facebook/YouTube etc?

Twitter – TheJamesSutton / Instagram – TheJameSutton