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Yavneh pupil, 11, performed in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Livi Kent adored her West End debut, her father says
September 17, 2021 12:54
1 min read
Livi Kent adored her West End debut, her father says
September 17, 2021 12:54Making her West End debut alongside singer Alexandra Burke in a revival of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat was a dream come true for Yavneh pupil Livi Kent.
The 11-year-old “absolutely adored it,” her father Anthony, 46, told the JC after the production finished its run at the London Palladium earlier this month.
Ms Kent, who has held various theatre, short film and commercial roles, performed 30 times, appearing onstage as the goat and Judah’s wife.
She was among dozens of child cast-members starring alongside Ms Burke and Neighbours star Jason Donovan, who played the title role in 1991 but returned this time as Pharaoh.
Ms Kent’s mother Claire, who as a teen saw the earlier production starring Mr Donovan as Joseph, said it was “amazing to see her on stage with what was my idol years later.”
After successfully auditioning over Zoom and later in-person, she took part in rehearsals sometimes lasting up to seven hours a day earlier this year.
“There were challenges along the way. Livi had to Covid test every single day. There were times when Covid stopped rehearsals and the run, which caused disruption,” Mr Kent said.
“We almost had to put the rest of our lives on hold due to the huge commitment,” Mrs Kent recalled. “But the minute we saw her on the stage performing, we were just so proud and knew that it had all been worth it.”
“She had the time of her life.”
She added: “The kids cast were an integral part of the show but one of Livi’s favourite moments was when she had a cameo doing some gymnastics tumbles which finished with her delivering a funny line.
“Alexandra was great at reacting to her and it always got a big laugh.”
Having met Ms Burke in person had “really inspired” her daughter, the mum added.
“The adult cast were lovely to them and Livi has made some really good friends, both adults and children, following working so intensely with everyone.
“The adults bought them opening night gifts, closing night gifts. She had a really good rapport with them.”