Emily-Mae on her second year of 'Hamilton' in the West End
London Theatre Magazine catches up with the Barnsley-born star as she heads into her second year at Hamilton as Angelica Schuyler.
When Emily-Mae graduated from drama school, she threw herself into auditioning, and landed in the room at Hamilton. In a word, she was terrified. “I was a baby!” she recalls, thinking back to her first attempt at getting into the show. She was cut in the second round of auditions, but that was far from the end of her journey across the UK’s professional scene.
Now eight years post-graduation, the charismatic actor is no stranger to the stage, having performed in shows such as Hairspray, The Bodyguard, Frozen and City of Angels. In 2024, Emily-Mae had a full-circle moment when she was cast as Angelica Schuyler in Hamilton. She tells London Theatre Magazine all about entering her second year in the role.
What made you want to stay at Hamilton for another year?
It’s such a great show, I feel very lucky to be a little cog in this amazing machine – and Angelica is just so interesting. Because the show moves so quickly, it sort of runs off on its own. It’s nice to get lost in that, and also find something different in it every day. And, to be candid, I just bought a flat – so the security doesn’t hurt!
What do you like about Angelica?
On the outside, she’s this bold, sassy, confident character, but she’s got a lot of vulnerability; she’s putting a really strong facade on a lot of the time. So, it’s interesting to play with that balance of how much vulnerability to show and hide.
Do you have a pre-show ritual that helps you get into character?
If I’ve downed something like six pints of water before I come into work, there’s something that tricks my mind into thinking, “Oh, it’s all going to be fine.” I just feel so much better when I’ve got water in me!
How do you get back to being Emily-Mae after the show?
I go and get undressed with the sisters, and it’s nice to have a quick debrief together. Taking my wig off is a real moment of shedding the character – you can’t be scrolling on your phone at the same time. The monotony and stillness of taking the pins out really focuses me.
What’s a dream role you’d love to play in another musical?
My favourite musical of all time is Little Shop of Horrors, and though I’ve been one of the Ronettes before, I’d love to have a go at Audrey. Or Elphaba in Wicked, of course – even just for a week before handing it over to someone else!
Book Hamilton tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk
Photo credit: Emily-Mae. (Courtesy of production). Inset: Nathania Ong, Emily-Mae and Simbi Akande. (Photo by Danny Kaan)
Frequently asked questions
What is Hamilton about?
Who was the ten dollar Founding Father? Lin-Manuel Miranda's Pulitzer-winning musical reveals all. The multi-award-winning Hamilton brings American history to life through a rap and hip-hop soundtrack. Do not throw away your shot. Get Hamilton tickets at the Victoria Palace Theatre today.
Where is Hamilton playing?
Hamilton is playing at Victoria Palace Theatre. The theatre is located at Victoria Palace , 79 Victoria Street , London, SW1E 5EA.
How long is Hamilton?
The running time of Hamilton is 2hr 45min. Incl. 15min interval.
What's the age requirement for Hamilton?
The recommended age for Hamilton is Ages 10+. Children under 16 must be accompanied and sat next to an adult ticketholder (18+). Children under the age of 3 won't be admitted. Everyone must have their own ticket to enter..
How do you book tickets for Hamilton?
Book tickets for Hamilton on London Theatre.
What are the songs in Hamilton?
The musical Hamilton features several standout songs, including “The Schuyler Sisters,” “Wait For It,” and “My Shot.” There are 46 songs in total. Read our guide to Hamilton, which includes a complete list of songs featured in the show.
Who wrote Hamilton?
Lin-Manuel Miranda is the multi-talented creator behind Hamilton, responsible for its music and lyrics. His innovative blend of hip-hop, R&B, and traditional musical styles brought a fresh take to the story of Alexander Hamilton.
Who directed Hamilton?
The director of Hamilton is Thomas Kail. He also collaborated with Lin-Manuel Miranda on In The Heights. Kail won a Tony Award for his work on Hamilton.
Is Hamilton appropriate for kids?
Due to strong language, Hamilton is recommended for ages 10+. Children under the age of 4 will not be permitted into the theatre. An adult must accompany anyone under the age of 16.
Is Hamilton good?
Hamilton is a Tony and Olivier award-winning production that reimagines American history. Read our five-star review of Hamilton here.
Who is Alexander Hamilton?
As one of America’s Founding Fathers, Alexander Hamilton played an influential role in shaping the United States, including pioneering crucial financial policies as the first Treasury Secretary and shaping the nation's government structure. Despite his untimely demise in a duel with Aaron Burr, Hamilton's legacy continues to shape American politics, economics, and culture.
Is the musical Hamilton different in London?
The London production of Hamilton is a transfer of the original Broadway production. The same creatives worked on both productions, and no significant changes were made.
What is the musical Hamilton based on?
The show’s creator, Lin-Manuel Miranda, drew inspiration from Ron Chernow’s biography “Alexander Hamilton” when writing the musical. This account of Hamilton’s life is the primary basis for Hamilton. Read our guide to the history of Hamilton.
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