Meet James Blacker (LLoyd) from LTA's "Blue Stockings"

 

What do you find appealing about your character and this show?
Lloyd isn’t the nicest chap in this show, so it is always a fun job to play the ‘bad guy’, as he is quite different to who I am in everyday life.

What have you learned about yourself in playing the role of “Lloyd”?
My character’s attitudes and actions are rooted in fear which manifests as a desire to maintain the status quo. As people, we need to become comfortable with and embrace change. 

What do you want the audience to experience/take away from this show?
This play highlights just how far we’ve come in ensuring access to education for all. Yet, it reminds us that we still have challenges we need to overcome.

How does this show differ from other shows you have worked on?
This is my first show since high school, so everything’s more grown up.

How long have you been acting and what made you get involved in theatre? How did you get involved with LTA?
As a child, my mother got me acting lessons instead of LEGOs; I discovered I enjoyed it and continued through my teenage years.  Life then got in the way, but I always enjoyed going to the theatre.  My wife got involved with LTA and being in the audience for her shows reignited my desire to act again. 

What advice would you give others who are interested in working in theatre?
There is something for everyone to do from ushering, to backstage roles, to acting. Just volunteer!