The Stage

Joshua Horner

Published Wednesday 3 May 2006 at 11:30 by Paul Vale

Joshua Horner is 26 years old and originally trained at the Australian Ballet School in Melbourne. He is currently appearing in the Billy Joel dance musical Movin’ Out, at the Apollo Victoria, as the understudy/swing to the leading role of Tony.

How did a boy from New South Wales come to be a ballet dancer?

It was actually a health issue. As a child I suffered severely from asthma and doctors recommended several things to help develop my lungs. Swimming was no option as I had an allergic reaction to the chlorine and gymnastics didn’t appeal in the slightest. Dance was suggested, so from the age of six I was hooked and continued with a career in ballet for a long time.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career?

In the entertainment industry it has to be David Atkins. He is a wonderful choreographer/director/producer who has created some of the biggest dance shows to hit Australia. He also directed the opening ceremony to the Olympic Games. He is a real showman and a fantastic director to work with.

How are you finding the show?

Movin’ Out has to be the hardest dance show ever. The choreography is so physically demanding that there is no way that a single performer could play the role eight times a week so I am the swing opposite David Gomez. The sense of accomplishment is breathtaking, coupled with the excitement of working and living in London for the first time.

Have you worked overseas a great deal?

Originally I was sent on a travel scholarship to observe dance and musical theatre in the USA. I saw the show Movin’ Out on Broadway and sneaked in an audition. Twyla Tharp, the choreographer, seemed really impressed with my work but the visas were impossible. Two years down the line she contacted me when they were planning the show here and that’s when I got the call to audition.

What were you doing at the time?

I was understudying the role of Johnny Castle in the Australian production of Dirty Dancing. New York altered my perspective on dance and I wanted to concentrate on musical theatre more. Dirty Dancing was that opportunity for me. I am looking forward to seeing how the UK receives the show when it opens here in October.

And after Movin’ Out?

I hope to continue working either in London or possibly New York as I am very happy with the way my career is developing at the moment. Possibly working towards straight dramatic roles and perhaps even television and film.