Waiting in the Wings: Freddie King on starring in 'Titanique'
In this new series, we will be celebrating the West End’s brilliant understudies. At their best these incredible performers do more than just keep the curtain up — they take the show to a whole new level.
Summary
- Freddie King is an offstage understudy in Titanique
- King covers five roles in the show including Jack and Cal
- Titanique is currently playing at the Criterion Theatre in the West End
Freddie King is an offstage understudy, who covers five roles in comedy musical Titanique, which takes a look at what really happened the night the Titanic sunk — but through Céline Dion's eyes.
King's other stage roles include Light in the Piazza concert at Alexandra Palace, Oklahoma with John Wilsons Orchestra, and Heathers at the Other Palace, where he played JD.
Book Titanique tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk
How are you enjoying your time in Titanique?
I’m absolutely loving it, and I have been for the last 13 months of this contract. I’ve been through a few different casts now, and every day I still love coming to work, singing Céline Dion songs and being a complete fool!
What does a normal week look like for you?
I cover five roles in the show: Jack, Cal, Victor Garber, Ruth, and background vocalist. Between me and David Ouch, our wonderful male swing, we cover holidays, sickness, and injuries. It’s a small cast, so people are on holiday throughout the year. Some weeks I’ll play one role for several shows, other weeks I might be across different tracks entirely. Most weeks I’m on for at least two or three shows, and sometimes I’ll be on all week in different roles. It’s exciting and rewarding, but it can also be quite tiring.
What do you enjoy most about covering so many different roles in the show?
It’s mainly the variety. It’s quite extreme because I cover four principal roles, which is unusual. I feel very lucky to get such great characters to play. One week I’m the romantic hero as Jack, the next I’m a complete villain as Cal or Ruth, or I’m just having the best showgirl time as Victor. I’m pretty greedy as a performer, so being able to have a go at every character really suits me.
What do you think is the secret to being a great understudy?
Watching and listening as much as possible. During the original rehearsal process I sat in on everything, soaking up detail before I even rehearsed myself. I think of the show like a jigsaw puzzle: every rehearsal, role, and performance adds another piece. Over time you learn not just your own lines, but how scenes function, how relationships shift, and how the whole show breathes. Once you understand that bigger picture, you can step into any role with confidence and move smoothly through the show, rather than worrying about individual lines.
What roles or shows would you like to do next?
I just want something challenging and rewarding. After doing a comedy parody musical, I’d love to
do something a little more traditional, but honestly I’m just happy doing great musicals with lovely people and belting my face off every night!
Book Titanique tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk
Photo credit: Freddie King as Jack in Titanique. (Photo by Danny Kaan)
This article first appeared in the February 2026 issue of London Theatre Magazine.
Frequently asked questions
What is Titanique about?
The laugh-out-loud funny jukebox musical, Titanique, which combines the blockbuster film, Titanic, with the music of Céline Dion, comes to the London stage at Criterion Theatre.
How do you book tickets for Titanique?
Book tickets for Titanique on London Theatre.
Where is Titanique playing?
Titanique is playing at Criterion Theatre. The theatre is located at 218-223 Piccadilly, Piccadilly Circus, London, SW1Y 4XA.
What's the age requirement for Titanique?
The recommended age for Titanique is Ages 14+. Strictly no admittance for under 12s due to strong language and sexual references. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult (18+)..
How long is Titanique?
The running time of Titanique is 115 minutes. No interval.
Who wrote Titanique?
The musical is by Marla Mindelle, Constantine Rousouli, and Tye Blue.
Who directed Titanique?
Tye Blue stages the show.
What songs are in Titanique?
The musical has many hit songs, including My Heart Will Go On, The Prayer, Who Let the Dogs Out, and I’m Alive.
Is Titanique appropriate for kids?
This musical is best for children ages 12 and above as it contains some sexual innuendo, adult humour, and adult language.
Is Titanique good?
Titanique is a wonderful musical that has been a hit both on and off Broadway, earning three Lucille Lortel Awards. This show promises a fun night of theatre for all, as it includes many hit musical numbers and laugh-out-loud moments.
Originally published on
