HIP-COCKED and finger pointing rhythmically amid reflections of a shining disco ball – Euan Doidge will channel John Travolta’s gifted dance king, Tony Manero, when he stars in the iconic hit musical Saturday Night Fever.
The former Millicent resident recently landed the lead role of Manero for the new musical production, which will premiere at the Sydney Lyric Theatre on March 27.
He will perform alongside long-time friend Melanie Hawkins who will play his on-stage love interest and dance partner, Stephanie Mangano.
Australia’s original disco diva Marcia Hines, Tim “Timomatic” Omaji, Paulini, Natalie Conway and Bobby Fox were also announced in the stellar line-up and Euan describes the opportunity to work alongside such talent as a “pinch yourself” moment.
Speaking to The South Eastern Times Euan said he was excited to take on the role, which rocketed Travolta to stardom and aspires to do justice to the king’s footsteps.
“I auditioned for Saturday Night Fever purely because it was a show that really excited me,” he said.
“The style of the show is super fun and fast and I love nothing more than a feel good musical – exactly like Saturday Night Fever is.
“Of course I knew it would be a role that would be challenging for me, which is also why Tony Manero stood out as a character I would love to play.
“I was so excited and might I say relieved when I found out I had been successful in the audition.
“It was a long time waiting to hear so even if it went the other way I would have been relieved, the waiting is what is the killer.
“I feel really lucky to play Tony Manero – it is an iconic role and I am mostly excited to bring my own energy to a character that is well known.
“Everything is there on the page and I will do my best to be the best version of the character I can be.”
Euan conceded he had never seen the movie during his childhood, but he researched the role before auditioning.
“I watched the movie before I auditioned,” he said.
“I cannot believe it was rated R back in its day.
“I was familiar with the music on the movie’s soundtrack – it is something I grew up with.
“It was Mum and Dad’s favourite jam music and my favourite tracks would have to be Should be Dancing and How Deep is your Love.”
The blazing stage show is expected to propel the cult classic to phenomenal new heights and Euan – who would give anything to travel back to the disco era for one night – said people will be “blown away” by the performance.
“It is disco, how can anyone not enjoy the show?
“Honestly, I believe people will be blown away by this production of Saturday Night Fever.
“Every cast member is doing what they do best, you are getting mighty hot dancers, epic singers and some of the best Australian musical performers out there.
“It is going to be fierce.”
In the lead-up to rehearsals next week Euan has been busy “reading, reading and reading” the script, as well as keeping fit and taking as much downtime as he needs before life gets hectic.
He looks forward to a complete change in characters after he strutted his stuff on stage for months as Felicia in Priscilla Queen of the Desert.
“Every role is different to the next role if I am honest.
“I had such a blast playing Felicia, but yes I am excited to play a role that does not require heels for a while.
“I have been watching the movie – Saturday Night Fever – in the lead-up to rehearsals.
“The classic John Travolta walk, what a strut hey.
“I’ll let you guys be the judge as to whether I have it down pat.”
Saturday Night Fever will premiere in Sydney on April 2.
