Wendi Peters is an English actress, who has worked extensively on TV and stage, appearing in both plays and musicals, currently working on the thrilling UK tour of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. We managed to spend some time with Wendi during rehearsals to talk about the exciting tour and her career.
How did you get into acting, was there a particular performance you saw that resonated with you?
I went to dancing school and performed in school plays. Mum used to take me to all the musicals that came to Manchester, but seeing “Annie” in London in 1980 gave me “the bug!”
What has been your favourite role you have played and why?
I have so many for different reasons. Early on I’d say Red Riding Hood in “Into The Woods” in Ipswich in 1992. And most recently playing Diana in “You are Here” at the Southwark Playhouse Theatre.
Can you tell us about The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, what can people expect?
It’s a horror play, it’s touring from September and it’s going to be spooky and spectacular with illusions a plenty!
Is there a message you would like people to take away from it?
It’s set in a strange small town where new people aren’t particularly welcome, so I guess acceptance. I really just want people to enjoy being in the theatre again and be entertained.
When can people see the new project?
We open at The Churchill Theatre, Bromley on September 30th and then tour till December 4th see online.
Where has been your favourite place to perform on stage and why?
I love small intimate spaces. I had the best time at the Park Theatre in Finsbury Park playing Dorothy Mavis in “Hatched ‘n’ Dispatched”
What is the most rewarding thing about your work?
Making people smile and laugh!
What’s been a funny moment for you on stage? Any mishaps you want to share!?
Nothing absolutely disastrous springs to mind, I’ve fallen over a few times though and my skirt fell down in “Hello Dolly” after a quick change!
Who are your influences and inspirations?
I have many, mainly great character actresses – Beryl Reid, Victoria Wood, Julie Walters, Maggie Smith and my all-time favourite Patricia Routledge.
What’s your go to song for auditions or just singing in the shower?
I don’t really sing in the shower! Songs for auditions nowadays are usually from my cabaret list, there is always something suitable
Is there a role (regardless of gender) you would love to play in a show?
I suppose it’s one many Musical Theatre actresses would say – Rose in Gypsy!
Where can people follow your work on socials like Twitter/Instagram etc.?
Twitter @wendipeters and Instagram @wendi.peters
