The actor and singer, who plays Dexter Haven in Cole Porter’s famed musical, High Society at the Barbican, shares his passion for the city. Kathryn Conway reports.
From a café with a rooftop view in Peckham to Persian food in Borough Market, here are the moments that make Julian Ovenden’s day.
What’s it like to step into a role played by Bing Crosby and Cary Grant?
I try not to think too much about who has played the role before otherwise my legs turn to jelly. I’ll try to make the part my own, that’s all I can do.
If your perfect day had a soundtrack, which number from High Society would represent it?
There are so many great songs to choose from, from the exuberantly upbeat to the melancholic and heartbroken. I’d choose You Do Something to Me, a wonderfully cheeky anthem to being under someone’s spell.
If you’re out in London, where do you grab breakfast or coffee?
My entire industry is fuelled by Pret A Manger, but I try and find more independent places. There’s a great spot near me in Peckham called Nola, which is very lovely and on trend. I’m usually the oldest person in there.
What’s one thing you think every visitor should do in the capital at least once?
Rather like New York or Paris, London takes a lifetime to explore. The best way is to be on foot and see where your eyes and ears take you.
Do you have a favourite hidden gem in the city?
The view from Primrose Hill is fantastic, as are the sunsets at Frank’s Cafe in Peckham.
Where do you go for a bite to eat?
There are too many to choose from! I had an amazing meal last week at Berenjak in Borough Market – sensational Persian food.
Do you have a favourite building in the capital?
It would have to be St Paul’s Cathedral where I spent five years of my life singing as a chorister.
Where do you like to shop?
I love shopping but I rarely have the time or the spare money! It’s difficult to beat Covent Garden for a great browse though.
Do you have a favourite green space?
I’m lucky to live opposite Peckham Rye, which is a great green space. I’m there every day chasing after my very naughty dog Bruno.
Where in London holds a special memory for you?
I love the Donmar Warehouse. I’ve done many shows there and it’s always been a wonderful place to work and exist in for a few months.
Where do you go for a glamorous night out when you’re not performing?
I have enough dressing up in my professional life to need to do too much of that when I’m not working. If I had the cash, a weekend at The Savoy or Claridge’s would be good though!
Is there a standout moment in High Society for you?
I think it’s just lovely to be in a show that is so upbeat and full of light and misbehaviour. It’s a great anecdote to what’s going on in the world at the moment. I hope we put a smile on people’s faces!
