Madagascar The Musical takes to the Derry stage tonight at 7pm at the Millennium Forum. This North West Culture Gal was delighted to catch up with Alex the Lion earlier today as he just arrived in Derry. Matt Terry, X Factor winner 2016, will be back in the Lion gear this evening in Derry. His first time in Derry and having only arrived, he took time out of his busy schedule for a chat.
Matt and the rest of the cast have just had a week ‘off’ so I asked him if it’s difficult to get back into character after the break: “I don’t know” he quickly tells me, “I haven’t done it before. This was my first break from the show so we’ll know tonight.” I don’t doubt we’ll even notice that it’s just back after a short holiday!
So this is his first time in Derry. “I’ve been to Ireland before but not to Derry. It’s great to be here.” I did of course assure him that there’s lots to do and see in this wonderful city.
Having won XFactor in 2016, how has this changed things for Matt Terry? “Everything changed massively”, he tells me. “I’ve been given great opportunities and for that I’m very thankful.”
I was keen to know just what’s been his highlight to date (after stepping into Alex the Lion that is!!). Matt had no hesitation in saying, “collaborating with Enrique Iglesias and Sean Paul.” That certainly was memorable for all who heard it.
How different is this experience to his own singing I asked Matt. “It’s completely different and a real challenge. It’s a good different and I’m enjoying it.” Had you envisaged doing something like this when you won X Factor? “No I definitely hadn’t. They’re two very different roles.” Would you consider doing another following Madagascar? “I certainly would. I’m back in the studio recording around Christmas and the New Year so we’ll see what the future brings.”
So as Madagascar takes to the Derry stage for back-to-back performances tonight until this coming Saturday night, November 10th, just why should we go along? Matt says, “because it’s so good. It’s a show for all the family. It’s for ages 4 to 74 and more.” I was glad he said that as mother (in her 70’s) is coming along later tonight with myself! “There’s great songs, a fabulous cast and fantastic choreography, that it’s just worth seeing”, says Matt Terry.
So I guess it really is time to join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime. Filled with outlandish characters, adventure galore and an upbeat score, we’ll have no choice but to “Move It, Move It!” Oh I can’t wait.
North West Culture Gal 