This transcript was automatically generated and might contain errors.

[0:01] Eva Noblezada: Hi, my name is Eva Noblezada. This is Reeve Carney and you're listening to Eleven, the official theatre podcast.

[0:17] William J Connolly: Hello and welcome to Eleven, the official theatre podcast that brings the biggest stars and creatives together in one place to discuss life in the arts.

[0:25] William J Connolly: They're the Tony-nominated, Grammy-winning, all-round slaying power team that are breaking hearts and diving deep to tell some of the most important stories live on stage in both the West End and on Broadway.

[0:39] William J Connolly: And now, not too long after their most recent visit to UK shores, they're back to star as Sally Bowles and the MC in the London production of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club.

[0:50] William J Connolly: So what's it like getting to play these legendary and iconic roles, particularly for a 2025 audience? And what's it like acting opposite your life partner, something they may have a little bit of experience on?

[1:02] William J Connolly: Well, let's find out together as direct from backstage at the Kit Kat Club in London. We dive into their excitement at this new chapter together, why every pairing in this show should be celebrated wholeheartedly, and the power of staying present in a show like Cabaret and being inspired by each other's performances.

[1:19] William J Connolly: Plus, Orpheus and Eurydice is on our lips when we celebrate their return together to Hadestown earlier this year for a live capture in London, roles they originated together years before, and how that journey was not about trying to replicate their 2019 performances for the screen. And why they hope you, the audience, always leave the theatre feeling inspired.

[1:42] William J Connolly: It's the exceptional talent of Eva Noblezada and Reeve Carney. Hear now on this the next episode of Eleven, the official theatre podcast.

[1:55] William J Connolly: Please help me welcome to this the next episode of Eleven. They're the Broadway and West End power duo that have a Grammy win, Tony nominations and a global audience of thousands, and the rather unique skill of making us all cry so damn hard when they sing together.

[2:10] William J Connolly: And now they're about to reunite here in London to lead the West End production of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club. And I'm thrilled to say they're here to tell me all about it. So as always in my life, ladies first.

[2:21] William J Connolly: Hello, Eva Noblezada. How are you?

[2:22] Eva Noblezada: Hello, I'm good. And yourself?

[2:23] William J Connolly: I'm doing very well. Thank you so much for being here. Would you mind doing the honours and introducing the gentleman sat to your left?

[2:29] Eva Noblezada: Ladies and gentlemen, the most handsome man in all the universe, Reeve Carney.

[2:34] Reeve Carney: Hey, that was very good. I feel like you may be coming for my job a little bit with that.

[2:39] William J Connolly: Oh, she's good. She's good. Thank you so much, both of you. I know you are deep in the middle of tech and rehearsals imminently as you're about to join the West End production of Cabaret. It's incredibly exciting. Does it feel like a little bit of a homecoming for you? Do you feel like, oh, we're back in the West End with old friends? Does it feel like that? Or is this feel like a new chapter?

[2:56] Reeve Carney: Eva's been here a lot more than I have. But even for me, it does feel a bit like that. And this is such a wonderful group of people and a wonderful company. So, yeah, they certainly do what they can to make you feel at home. We're having a blast.

[3:11] William J Connolly: So when the idea first came across your table, when you were like, do you know what? The West End might be calling with this show. Eva, what was like your initial reaction? Because you've done this on Broadway. You know how iconic this is and also how special this is to audiences. So were you like immediately, yes, or were you like, oh, let me just think for two seconds. What was like your first reaction?

[3:30] Eva Noblezada: Well, because they asked about us coming together, my immediate reaction was like, absolutely. Absolutely. Yeah. I think it was kind of perfect timing that we had. You know, I finished my run on Broadway and then we even I were able to come over together. And just the fact that they even, you know, I don't know. I don't know who came up with the idea. I've been dreaming about this for a very long time. So for me, it was like an immediate yes.

[3:56] William J Connolly: And for you, I assume you saw Eva do it rather a few times in New York. So to know that that was going to be the person you're going to get to play with. That's also your life partner as well. Is that like, yeah, absolutely. Or is it because you've seen it that special to you and you want to protect it? How is it for you from your perspective?

[4:11] Reeve Carney: Oh, yeah. I mean, any chance to work with Eva, the fact that this opportunity arose. I mean, it was an instant, obviously. Yes, for me. And I had seen her in the show 10 times and then we've seen another three or four times together. And we love the show. We love the production. And yeah, but the chance to work with Eva, I mean, it's just a no brainer for me.

[4:33] William J Connolly: And for you, Eva, getting to come back to Sally, it's a character, as I said, that people know incredibly well. Does it feel part two of what came before? Does this feel perhaps like you get to rediscover because you've got your life partner and somebody different opposite you? Does it does it feel like you're getting to sort of almost start again, I guess?

[4:49] Eva Noblezada: Absolutely. It's kind of like I kept making the joke in rehearsal that it was like that scene in Wizard of Oz where she wakes up at the end. She goes, I had a dream and you were there and you were there and you were there because it's like the same characters. But in the same layout, the same stage, but very different with collaboration. And like when you work with different creatives, there's different ideas. And whenever I work with Reeve or watch Reeve work, I'm just endlessly inspired. So this is like a journey that is just very exciting and really just. Yeah, I'm very, very grateful to be here. But also it is it is quite different. I feel I don't want to, you know, come across like I'm like, oh, I've done this before. But it is quite different in my thinking of Sally and how I'm trying to structure her.

[5:37] Reeve Carney: So I obviously feel exactly the same way. The only downside for me is the fact that I don't get to watch Eva's entire performance as I do when I'm in the audience. So that's the thing that I've gotten to see her ten times at least. But, yeah, and I do have moments. We have moments where I do.

[5:51] William J Connolly: Yeah, it's interesting, actually, because while you get to do it in the headline roles together, there's not a huge amount of crossover for you both together in the show, perhaps in ways and shows that you've done opposite each other before. So how does Reeve, how does that play out? As you say, you're getting the moments to be able to stand to one side and to see her shine.

[6:08] Reeve Carney: Yeah, I mean, not I'd say there's not a whole lot in terms of. Well, there's a there's a there's a bit, but in terms of their physical interactions in the space. But there's a connection that the two characters have that really that really is like a for us, I think, is a through line of the entire show. And it comes across. We hope that that's the you know, that's how it comes across. But yeah, so it's an interesting one, because I'd say that they're probably always on or in each other's minds in some way in this production.

[6:41] William J Connolly: Yeah, it's such an interesting point, actually, because that's what I feel is perhaps different about this production. Incredibly smart about the direction here is that that connection that you say that maybe isn't physical, but is actually through where they're physically in the space or who's watching you. And I love that. I think it's incredibly genius about this. Was that something like without one of the points that you thought we might not physically be together, but actually we're going to be together in certain spaces, learning off each other? Because if you've had the opportunity to watch, you're now in the zone with her. So I imagine that's brilliant. And also it's almost in the thing that you watch. Did that make any sense?

[7:11] Reeve Carney: Yeah, I think that was a great that's been the rehearsal process has been fairly fast getting from rehearsal to tech. But I think I'm really grateful that I had the opportunity to watch Eva in this and to watch the show in general so many times before getting here. I think that definitely helps, you know, familiarize, get me familiar with it in a way that I otherwise would not have had the chance to do. So I'm very grateful for that.

[7:33] William J Connolly: Eva, what one of the things that you did before that you thought, I know that I must take this part of my Sally with me to London, what were the things that thought the foundations that you wanted to make sure remain true to your characterization and your performance?

[7:52] Eva Noblezada: Sometimes I think I tend to, in my life, people please. And I sometimes maybe put parts of that into my characters with the flaws and characteristics that I wouldn't agree with that don't align with my values with the characters I play. So with Sally's kind of like turning a blind eye of what's going around her and completely, you know, misusing the privilege that she has and the position she has, despite the background of what everyone else is going through. You know, sometimes you have an inkling of like, I have to do more as an actor to be, you know, to. But I think actually what's important about this character is that she is very I mean, she's very apolitical and she doesn't have a stance, which means, you know, you know, if you don't fall, you know, believe in anything, you'll fall for anything. And I thought that I think that that was a very important thing for me to solidify even more when I came over here.

[8:49] William J Connolly: And is that something that you were aware of when you started or is that something that grew to you as you played the role previously?

[8:55] Eva Noblezada: I think a mixture of both. I think, you know, as I when I watched the movie and I watched the show, I loved it every single time. And, you know, sometimes there are certain performances or moments in life you go, oh, that I heard that for that length differently for the first time or this made sense more today. And I think I wanted to just make sure that there was a very obvious choice in Sally, a very obvious part of Sally that is not totally swayed by the world, like she's not like a waif, she's not a victim. You know, she has, you know, autonomy. And that's part of also what Freck's incredible director was one of the things that I knew that she wanted of Sally is for her to have her own autonomy and make her own decisions.

[9:43] William J Connolly: Reeve, one thing that's incredibly exciting and I think commendable about the direction in this show and this production is that every single duo and pairing that we get in every person that's able to play these parts is so different. It's not like a replication or a duplication of perhaps what we might think or what audiences might think they want to expect, but actually a journey and celebration of the individual. It feels like every single time you see a different pairing, you get something new. I can imagine as a creative, as somebody that's at this part of your journey, just about to begin on the stage that that's probably as equally terrifying as it is rewarding. How is it at this moment when you're just a few days out from from starting?

[10:14] Reeve Carney: Well, what I love working with this team is, I mean, there's so many things I love about working with this team. But while they are giving us the freedom to inviting, giving us the invitation to bring something that is true to us, it's never at the sake of the story or losing sight of the story. And so I always appreciate that. They're trying to find the things that I don't even know. It just feels like we're really trying to excavate like kind of archaeologists in a way. I don't know the things that will get to the depth and the heart of what the original intent is.

[10:56] Eva Noblezada: It's so exciting to be back in London, especially with Reeve. I mean, we have such a unique chemistry on stage, and stepping into these iconic roles of Sally Bowles and the Emcee is just exhilarating.

[11:26] Reeve Carney: Absolutely, Eva. The energy in the Kit Kat Club is palpable, and I think our audiences are going to feel that. It's a story that resonates deeply, especially for a 2025/26 audience.

[11:52] Eva Noblezada: And what I love is how we inspire each other every day. It's not just about performing; it's about pushing each other to explore new depths in our characters.

[12:20] Reeve Carney: Right, and returning to Hadestown earlier this year to record the live captured performance was such a welcomed creative task. We had the opportunity to expand our performances of Orpheus and Eurydice rather than just replicating them.

[12:48] Eva Noblezada: Exactly! It was about finding new layers and nuances in those characters, which is so important in live performance.

[13:08] Reeve Carney: And I think that speaks to the celebration of difference in live performance. It’s about embracing those unique interpretations rather than striving for note-perfect singing.

[13:30] Eva Noblezada: Yes! Art always meets the moment, and I believe that our interpretations reflect where we are in our lives right now.

[14:00] Reeve Carney: It’s true. Each performance is a snapshot of who we are at that time, and that authenticity is what connects us to the audience.

[14:30] Eva Noblezada: And I think that’s what makes live theatre so special. It’s not just about the technical aspects; it’s about the heart and soul we bring to the stage.

[14:58] Reeve Carney: Absolutely. And I feel like the Kit Kat Club is the perfect place for that kind of raw, honest expression.

[15:10] Eva Noblezada: I couldn’t agree more. The atmosphere is electric, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience it.

[15:40] Reeve Carney: And to think, we get to do this together! It’s a dream come true for both of us.

[16:10] Eva Noblezada: It really is. I mean, who would have thought we’d be here, sharing this journey?

[16:34] Reeve Carney: It’s a testament to our hard work and dedication, and I’m just grateful for the opportunity.

[17:02] Eva Noblezada: Me too! And I think our shared experiences in Hadestown have only strengthened our bond as performers.

[17:32] Reeve Carney: Definitely. It’s like we’ve grown together, and now we get to bring that growth into these new roles.

[18:00] Eva Noblezada: And I think that’s what makes our performances even more impactful. We’re not just playing characters; we’re telling a story that matters.

[18:28] Reeve Carney: Exactly! And I believe that audiences will feel that connection when they see us on stage.

[18:56] Eva Noblezada: I can’t wait for the first performance. It’s going to be such a powerful moment.

[19:24] Reeve Carney: Yes! And I hope everyone leaves the theatre feeling inspired and uplifted.

[19:54] Eva Noblezada: That’s the goal! To create an experience that resonates long after the curtain falls.

[20:22] Reeve Carney: And I think we’re going to achieve that together.

[20:50] Eva Noblezada: Here’s to the journey ahead!

[21:20] Reeve Carney: Cheers to that!

[21:52] William J Connolly: Welcome back to eleven. Today, we have a special episode featuring Eva Noblezada and Reeve Carney, who are joining us to discuss their exciting roles in the West End production of Cabaret.

[22:20] Eva Noblezada: It's such an exhilarating task to step into these iconic roles of Sally Bowles and the Emcee. The energy in the Kit Kat Club is just electric, and we’re thrilled to be a part of it.

[22:48] Reeve Carney: Absolutely! The story of Cabaret feels so relevant for today's audience. It’s powerful to think about how it resonates with people in 2025 and 2026.

[23:18] Eva Noblezada: And what’s amazing is how we inspire each other every day. Reeve brings so much depth to the Emcee, and I feel like I’m constantly learning from him.

[23:48] Reeve Carney: Likewise, Eva! Your portrayal of Sally is so vibrant and full of life. It’s a joy to share the stage with you.

[24:16] William J Connolly: You both have such a rich history together, especially with your return to Hadestown earlier this year. Can you tell us about that experience?

[24:46] Eva Noblezada: Recording the live captured performance in London was a welcomed creative task. We didn’t want to replicate our previous performances of Orpheus and Eurydice; instead, we aimed to expand on them.

[25:16] Reeve Carney: Exactly! It was about finding new layers and nuances in our characters. We wanted to bring something fresh to the audience while honoring the original material.

[25:46] Eva Noblezada: And I think that’s what live performance is all about—celebrating difference and embracing the unique moments that happen on stage.

[26:12] Reeve Carney: Right! There’s often this false demand for note-perfect singing, but art always meets the moment. It’s about the connection with the audience and the story we’re telling.

[26:42] Eva Noblezada: Yes! Every performance is a new opportunity to explore and express those emotions, and that’s what makes it so special.

[27:12] William J Connolly: It’s refreshing to hear you both speak about the creative process in such an open way. What do you hope audiences take away from your performances?

[27:40] Reeve Carney: I hope they feel a sense of liberation and joy. Cabaret is about embracing life, even in the face of adversity.

[28:10] Eva Noblezada: And I want them to feel seen and heard. It’s important that they connect with the characters and the themes we explore.

[28:40] William J Connolly: That’s a beautiful sentiment. It sounds like you both have a deep understanding of your roles and the impact they can have.

[29:10] Reeve Carney: Thank you! It’s a privilege to be able to tell these stories and to do it alongside such talented people.

[29:40] Eva Noblezada: Absolutely! We’re lucky to be part of a community that values creativity and expression.

[30:08] William J Connolly: As you continue your journey in these roles, what are you most excited about in the coming weeks?

[30:38] Reeve Carney: I’m excited to dive deeper into the character and discover new aspects of the Emcee. Each performance brings something different.

[31:08] Eva Noblezada: And for me, it’s about connecting with the audience. I can’t wait to see how they respond to our interpretations of Sally and the story.

[31:38] William J Connolly: It sounds like you both have a wonderful journey ahead of you. Thank you for sharing your insights with us today.

[32:06] Eva Noblezada: Thank you for having us!

[32:28] Reeve Carney: Yes, thank you! It’s been a pleasure.