An interview with Joshua Tonks

We chat to actor and writer Joshua Tonks about his BYMT experience and his favourite shows!

Josh graduated from Arts Ed and has starred as Rolf in The Sound of Music at the Open Air Theatre Regent's Park and in The Dreaming at the Union Theatre, as well as in the Alumni Choir at the BYMTO Concert last year!

I only did BYMT once, but it was a pretty magical experience. I was part of a devised piece called Rare Dreams (2007) directed by Kath Burlinson with original songs by Sonum Batra. The whole experience felt like I was in my own "coming-of-age" film; freeing and fulfilling and great fun!

Do you still keep in contact with any BYMTers?

I keep in touch with a handful of BYMTers but unfortunately it's rare that we actually meet because everyone is so busy!

(L-R) Sunny Moodie, Joshua Tonks, Jaygann Ayeh and Gabriel Mokake - Rare Dreams, 2007

Why should people get involved with BYMT?

BYMT can be the perfect opportunity to find your "people". It can be difficult to fit in at school when you like theatre and musicals, but with BYMT you are surrounded by people with exactly the same interests as you.

What would your dream role be?

My dream role hasn't been written yet. I'd like to create a role in an original production.

Favourite Shows?

Spring Awakening and Into The Woods are two of my favourites. They are both immensely satisfying to sing and can be interpreted in a multitude of ways.

What/who should young people research in the arts?

You should research everything that is to do with your art. Become a font of knowledge; it'll give you a good well of information to draw from.

Favourite food?

Cheese. Any type of cheese.

Ideal holiday?

Skiing in California, or Christmas in New York.

THE most important question: Scone (as in stone) or Scone (as in gone)?

Scone (as in gone)!

Read from BYMT Alumni on our blog and check out how you can get involved with BYMT.