Our Autumn 2024 Forgotten Orchard tour is now underway, and we’re thrilled to take you behind the scenes to explore the inspiration behind the production and introduce the talented team bringing it to life. In this blog series, we’re shining the spotlight on the incredible individuals making it all happen, this time with a special focus on Actor / Musician Allan Dunn.
How do you prepare for your role in The Forgotten Orchard? Any fun behind-the-scenes rituals?
It’s a big part – myself and the actor playing my granddaughter are on stage for (almost) the whole of the show. That’s one whole hour of just us. Lots of lines to learn. So first thing is to learn the lines. Then there are songs – I sing one song solo and accompany myself on melodeon. Then there’s another song with the names of lots of the apple trees in it. I also play ukulele-banjo during that song. Learning and practising the songs is next. Then we have to learn the moves. That happens during rehearsals. The first two bits I do mostly at home. As for behind-the-scene rituals: there is a little bumpy bit at the back of the set, that I and Caroline (the other actor) always pat before the show! No idea why!
If you were hosting a picnic in the orchard, what three things would you definitely have?
Apple juice – it really is my juice of choice. There is a well known French jam company that makes a delicious caramelised apple spread. That would be in there. Coffee, cake, and nice bread are absolutely necessary.
What’s been the most surprising or unexpected part of performing in The Forgotten Orchard (or favourite memory?)
By the end of the show, the kids are screaming to try the apples. That’s what I love seeing. It says ‘Job done’ for me.
