Tom Edden interview: 'Jamie Lloyd has a way of creating an enthusiasm for his crazy ideas'

In the latest episode of LondonTheatre.co.uk's podcast, Spotlight, actor Tom Edden has spoken of working with director Jamie Lloyd and how he 'creates a sense of loyalty, team, and enthusiasm for whichever crazy idea he's got.' 

It's not the first time Edden has been cast in Lloyd's productions. He appeared in the West End alongside Kit Harrington in Doctor Faustus, as well as a sketch with Lee Evans in the ambitious Pinter at the Pinter season. Edden spoke of how the director, whose production of Cyrano de Bergerac opens next week, "values actors and what they can bring." 

Speaking on the podcast, he said: "On Faustus, we would joke about a stupid crazy idea we could do, and he'd go 'yep, let's do it'. We had to edit ourselves and say: "don't say, let's wrestle in a shower of blood", because then he'll do it!". 

Edden also talked about a few other highlights from his career, such as his Tony Award nomination for his role in One Man, Two Guvnors, and how luck was on his side to see him cast as Fagin in Daniel Evans' production of Oliver. 

"I'd understudied Fagin before but never played it, so it seemed like it was in touching distance. Later, I went to a party and Daniel Evans was there. I asked him "what are you doing next?" and he told me it was Oliver, so as a joke, I said, "oh, well I could play Fagin!"

"He looked at me as if to say 'are you serious?', and I said 'well now I am!' Sure enough, on the Monday, my agent called. They had cast someone, but they'd just dropped out that day. So serendipity afforded that I was in front of Daniel and feeling ballsy enough to say 'I can play Fagin!' I loved playing that part."

Over the course of the episode - which you can listen to above, or by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Acast or anywhere else you can get podcasts - Edden spoke about his early experience in acting, his passions outside of the theatre, and the importance of vigorously researching the characters he plays. 

Cyrano de Bergerac is at the Playhouse Theatre until 29th February. 

Cyrano de Bergerac tickets are available now.