Strictly Come Dancing viewers may argue that Craig Revel Horwood has spent the past 21 years perfecting the cackle he needs for his next major role, as the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz.
The TV judge is swapping his score paddles for high heels in this touring production of the West End show with a few modern twists added.
“I’m super-excited about taking on the iconic role. She’s such an interesting character. She’s very touchy and definitely wants those shoes to make her the most powerful woman in the universe,” says the 59-year-old.
Having played the Wicked Stepmother in panto at Christmas and Miss Hannigan in Annie, I ask him if he gets annoyed at being typecast: “I’m always cast as the villain and I’m pleased about that because the villains have the better parts.”
Strictly might have made him a household name, but Craig’s career started as a performer in musical theatre in his home country of Australia, later moving to London to appear in West End musicals including Miss Saigon and Crazy for You.
Today he’s a much sought after director and choreographer, and recently worked on a new production of the musical Strictly Ballroom starring Kevin Clifton.
However, Craig still loves being a performer and getting onstage himself.
“I absolutely love it, especially with The Wizard of Oz as I get to play two characters. At the beginning I play Dorothy’s neighbour, Almira Gulch, who had been bitten by Dorothy’s dog,” he says.
On Strictly when I give direction, people take it as criticism. Some people can’t stand it, but of course in the theatre we’re grateful for it. It’s how you improve.
— Craig Revel Horwood
“The make-up changes are very quick. I’ve got to go green within seven minutes,” said Craig, chuckling about the shock of waking up in his hotel room seeing his pillow covered in green.
“It just seems to get everywhere, as much as you think you’ve taken it off.”
And how does he find taking direction and criticism?
“I really love it,” is his honest and forthright reply.
“One of the most important things as an actor is trusting and listening to your director and being able to take criticism on board in order to develop your character. I’m a yes man in that regard.
“On Strictly when I give direction, people take it as criticism. Some people can’t stand it, but of course in the theatre we’re grateful for it. It’s how you improve.”
He’s the judge audiences love to hate, but Craig Revel Horwood insists he only dishes out criticism to bring out the best in contestants.
“It’s my job as a judge to criticise. That’s why I’m on the panel. I just tell people the truth. It’s important to be honest,” he explains.
Chatting to Craig, it quickly becomes obvious that he very much ‘puts on’ his Strictly persona and underneath he’s really Mr Nice Guy.
“I’m a judge on Strictly, that’s my job. When I am away from my job I’m very different – just like anyone.”
The Wizard of Oz, which plays Belfast’s Grand Opera House this week, tells the timeless story of Dorothy and Toto who find themselves in a peculiar land and team up with a scarecrow, a tin man and a cowardly lion to battle the Wicked Witch of the West.
This production features the beloved hits such as Somewhere Over the Rainbow and We’re Off To See The Wizard, alongside new songs.
“I really like Red Shoes Blue, my song, which was written especially for the musical,” enthuses Craig, no stranger to Belfast.
“I absolutely love Belfast. There are plenty of bars and cafes and places to discover. I never have much time with the Strictly Arena Tour but I plan to explore this week.”
He’s grateful this role doesn’t have too many dance routines for him.
“I’ve recently had my bunions removed so I’m still going through the process of recovering from surgery. I’m glad not to have to kick my legs up too much,” he laughs.
When it comes to naming the celebrities he would love to see on the dancefloor later this year in Strictly, top of his list is funnyman Alan Carr and fellow TV judge Simon Cowell.
“I don’t think Simon would ever do it but he’d be brilliant and it would get him out of black,” he chuckles.
Also on his agenda this autumn is his new show, NOW That’s What I Call a Musical!
“It’s about two young girls growing up in the ‘80s and their aspirations, hopes and dreams in life. Then you fast forward 20 years on how they got on. Music was a big part of that era and the musical features fantastic songs from the likes of the Eurythmics and Duran Duran.
“I think audiences will love going back in time and reliving those NOW classics from the compilation CDs we all wanted as gifts.”
An aspiring pop diva himself, in 2021 Craig launched a Christmas single with Rietta Austin and this June he is releasing his own solo album.
“I’ve recorded a new album of ladies’ theatre songs that I’ve always wanted to sing,” reveals Craig, who will be touring it around the country next year.”
Including Ireland?
“Hopefully,” he replies.
To borrow one of his phrases: that would be fabulous, darling...
