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Exclusive Interview with Jassa Ahluwalia previewing tonight’s RIPPER STREET

Season 2 – Episode 5: Threads of Silk and Gold

MARCH 22 – 09:00PM – BBC AMERICA

MARCH 22 – 11:30PM – BBC AMERICA

‘Ripper Street: Threads of Silk and Gold’

Damian: Hey Jassa, we’re both lads from the Midlands! You’re from Leicestershire and I’m just down the road in sunny Staffordshire. As a drama student at college, I remember I was in this taxi one day talking to the driver and he asked me what I was studying. I told him it was performing arts and that I wanted to be an actor. I’ll never forget his hideous diatribe – basically telling me that I should train for a proper job and colleges shouldn’t even be running such courses that promote lazy wannabees! Did you ever come across this kind of attitude in your part of the Midlands?

Jassa: My fellow Midlander! I grew up in Leicester but I was born in Coventry. Does that make me an East meets West Midlander? I’m half Indian so it seems appropriate. I never came across that kind of attitude so explicitly. The closest was my grandfather insisting acting was a good hobby. In true Indian tradition he wanted me to become a doctor or a solicitor. Now I’m on TV he’s much more agreeable.

I was always wary of the wannabee label. I was surrounded by a few growing up and my instinct was to distance myself from them. I trained in ballet for eight years while I was at school through Leicestershire Arts in Education. My teacher Graham Fletcher was an ex-principal with the Royal Ballet and through him I saw how performance could be a career. It was show business and I’ve always treated as such.

Damian: Jassa (Singh) Ahluwalia was one of the great Sikh leaders during the 1700s, did your parents have high expectations of you from the very beginning?

Jassa: They’re still waiting for me to return and conquer the fatherland… I’ve never felt like they’ve had expectations. They’ve just been incredibly supportive, allowing both me and my sister (fellow actor training at the Academy in New York) to define our own criteria for success.

Damian: You’re a prolific actor and have enjoyed a diverse range of roles including a polar bear, a cave wall and a stalagmite – tell us about your journey from Oadby, Leicestershire to worldwide fame…

Jassa: I believe the cave wall and stalagmite may have been the same role… And worldwide fame?! You’re still going to have to buy me dinner… The journey began with Graham and Leicestershire Arts in Education. Through ballet I explored musical theatre and through that I discover acting. My Year 10 work placement was one of the most formative experiences of my life. Through a few audacious phone calls I’d secured a placement at agency Independent Talent (then ICM). There I witnessed the inner workings of the industry which allowed me to strategise. I was quite a forward thinking 15 year old. I used university to move to London – UCL halls were all central. I dropped out when I got my first big job (Art Attack) and I’m now represented by Independent. My first meeting there having a tea made for me felt like a landmark moment.

Damian: You missed out the Morris dancing, tell us about the Morris dancing – the readers want to know about the MORRIS DANCING!

Jassa: Your research is too damn thorough!!! I was a member of the Morris Dancing Club at Launde Primary School in Oadby. I loved it. We were a group of lads getting to show off at the school fair, hopping about and whacking sticks together. Part of the allure was also having seen the older boys do one dance in particular. The “sword dance” I believe it was called. Basically, mid dance, they’d weave their sticks/swords together to form a star which one of them could hold above their head. How the sticks stuck together was a playground conspiracy. The day we learnt how to do it we felt like we’d been initiated into a brotherhood, bonded by straw hats and ankle bells.

Jassa as Peter Pan – bless!

Damian: You trained with the Birmingham Royal Ballet and played Peter Pan in panto – do you have what it takes to look good in tights – you know what I’m talking about right?

Jassa: I believe Robin Williams once described the ballet as “men wearing pants so tight you can tell what religion they are”. Nobody ever thought I was Jewish.

Damian: You’re only twenty-three and you’ve already been an actor, producer, TV presenter, dancer and singer-songwriter! Why can’t you just focus on one thing and give everyone else in the industry a chance of some work?

Jassa: No one gives you a chance to work in this game. You have to seize opportunities and see where they take you. I like adventure! Every experience informs the other. Presenting taught me how little I enjoy performing as myself, acting exposed me to some incredible producers, producing gave me insight into how to conduct myself on set, dancing has given me the skills to do my own stunts where possible, my singing has given me the skills to handle intense vocal work and my writing makes me more discerning as a reader/listener/viewer. I feel like I am focusing on one thing – doing the best work.

Damian: Tell us about the album you’ve released – you’re not going to be another bloody Jerome Flynn are you?

Jassa: Haha! I didn’t know about Jerome’s music history! Thank you Wikipedia. My album All Your Letters was a side project and area of creative interest. It taught me a great deal about myself and I’m very proud of what I achieved but it’s not something I’m actively pushing at the moment. Though that may change in the near future. And if anyone wants to do a Wikipedia article for me I’d be most grateful. The one I tried to publish were removed for being ‘about a real person, which does not indicate the importance or significance of the subject’. It’s good to stay grounded.

Jassa is quickly becoming one of our hottest young actors

Damian: You played a burns victim in Casualty – it is compulsory for EVERY actor to appear in that show at least once?

Jassa: Of course. I was devastated when The Bill came to an end. How else was I to get the industry stamp of approval?! Fortunately Casualty was there to save the day.

Damian: You are perhaps best known for the sitcom Some Girls – I’m far too pretentious to watch anything on BBC Three – what’s it about, who do you play and why is it such a success?

Jassa: Heathen! It’s brilliant. It’s a comedy about a group of four teenage girls who live on the same inner city estate. I play Viva’s love interest, a loveable badboy trying to do good by the name of Rocky (“cos I’m a fighter innit”). I believe it’s success has been down to it’s commitment to honesty. I can’t think of any other shows that truthfully depict young girls and the challenges they face growing up now. In my opinion this was the highest praise we could get: South-London school drama Some Girls doesn’t fall into the Skins trap and manages to portray teenage life realistically, says 16-year-old Grace Berger – The Guardian.

Damian: I’m thinking of getting my chest waxed (Christmas present for my partner – lucky girl!), any advice?

Jassa: TRIM! Trim before you wax. Half way through the procedure, tears in my eyes, the beautician “taking care” of me told me I should’ve trimmed. HALF WAY THROUGH!!! The smoothness is unrivaled though. Lucky girl indeed.

Damian: I was excited to hear about your film Journey to the Moon thinking it would be a H. G. Wells/Jules Verne kind of sci-fi thing but then I found out it was an all-singing, all-dancing cast of children playing adults! What’s up with that?

Jassa: Sorry to disappoint. That was the first film I ever did. I got the lead role through open auditions and pure obsession. I can’t remember how many auditions I went to. And the film’s not even been released! I hope it does find distribution some day. Netflix perhaps. It’s very fun and rather ridiculous. All the songs were written by the Monty Python musical geniuses Andre Jacquemin and Dave Howman.

Damian: I’ve heard you’ve done it on other projects but did you have to flirt with the casting director to get a part on Ripper Street?

Jassa: Maybe… I didn’t actually meet Kate but her assistant was rather lovely.

Damian: Tell us about tonight’s episode of Ripper Street and your character?

Jassa: I play telegraph boy Vincent Featherwell. A fiery young soul with dreams for the future. A future with his colleague and lover David Goodbody. Tonight’s episode is a powerful story about the forces that drive us and the conflicts therein.

Damian: Tonight marks the return of the fantastic writer Toby Finlay in the first of two episodes he’s written for the second series. Viewers will remember he also wrote two for the first series including one of my favourites, The Weight of One Man’s Heart, did you get to meet him and was he wearing that hat?

Jassa: It seems we have similar tastes dear boy! Though Tournament of Shadows was the crowning jewel of the first series for me. I try not to fanboy around Toby but I inevitably fail. We were all out for drinks together. A lot of drinks. There was point where people stopped ordering rounds and started getting bottles. I vaguely remember saying goodbye in the back of a taxi somewhere. But I distinctly recall that hat being ever present.

Damian: Toby’s scripts for the show are brilliant and he has a fantastic ear for dialogue but he has a strange fetish for flowers and indeed birds (I’ll remind the reader that your character is named Vincent Featherwell and the aforementioned episode features copious references to them including the metaphorical love birds Drake almost gives to Rose) – can we look forward to similar imagery tonight?

Jassa: You are clearly a much more astute viewer than I. I’m familiar with several of Toby’s fetishes but not this one. Though I have been a little preoccupied with Alfie’s character being named Goodbody. My hours in the gym are clearly wasted on Mr Finlay.

Damian: I’ve mentioned my previous acting experience and was wondering if you could have a word with series creator, Richard Warlow and get me a part on the show? – I don’t mind who I play so long as my character wears a top hat, a cape and sports one of those walking sticks with a sword hidden inside…

Jassa: My grandmother used to have one of those! If I can find it I’ll take an assisted stroll over to his office and have a word.

‘The Bible’ – based on a true story

Damian: You’ve just finished playing David in an epic American mini-series called The Bible – is this based on a true story?

Jassa: A book of some description I’m told.

Damian: So you’ve fought with Goliath, could you take down Damien Molony for me please? He’s not that great in a fight without Drake – plus, he’d probably be asleep anyway.

Jassa: Sure thing. I’m yet to take revenge on him for flicking me the Vs off screen while we were shooting my close ups. I have the sling at home.

Jassa on the set of ‘The Whale’

Damian: Tell us about your future projects – I’m excited by The Whale – will this be more Moby Dick or Free Willy?

Jassa: Dick and sperm. No killer Willy. It’s the most incredible piece of storytelling. A truly brilliant ensemble cast, including next week’s Ripper’s Paul Kaye. I recently went in to do ADR and I had to take a break I was so shaken by the power of what I was watching. It’s a one-off feature length drama for BBC One which tells the true story of the sinking of the whaleship essex by a sperm whale and the crew’s torturous struggle for survival. The event was the inspiration behind Moby Dick.

Damian: One final question, why do you drop your trousers in lifts?

Jassa: I only do it when I’m going down… Haha, no. I do it when I’m going up too. You really do do your homework don’t you?! I was in the lift with my mate James Cleave at the studios where we shoot Some Girls – he was the floor runner (and also the 1st AD on Modern Man). We were heading up to the production office. A big open plan area that the lift opens up onto. As the doors pinged open I dropped my trousers and ran out screaming, “JAMES!!! GET OFF ME!!!” Sadly the office was empty. He used the stairs for the rest of the shoot.

Damian: Jassa, thanks so much for doing this interview – you’re a great sport! I’ll meet you in the lift after the show…

To find out more about Jassa without my nonsense check out his website: http://www.jassaahluwalia.com/ and you can follow him on twitter: https://twitter.com/OfficialJassa

Link to the short film Modern Man: http://www.jassaahluwalia.com/producer/

Hey Richard, if you’re reading this, you still haven’t returned my calls. Listen, I’ve watched Mary Poppins several times so I’ve really nailed the cockney accent – what do you say? Even just a small part in the show would be fine Richard. Hello, Richard… Richard… RICHARD…

~ Damian Michael Barcroft ~

https://twitter.com/mrdmbarcroft

https://twitter.com/RipperStreet

PLEASE NOTE: This interview originally appeared last November and both The Bible and The Whale were broadcast over the Christmas period in the UK.

Leanne Best talks RIPPER STREET

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Damian Michael Barcroft previews tonight’s episode of RIPPER STREET in an exclusive interview with Leanne Best

Leanne Best plays Jane Cobden, the first woman to be elected to the London County Council as councillor for Bromley and Bow and upon whose shoulders the suffragette movement was formed. Cobden returns in tonight’s episode which its writer, Jamie Crichton, tells me will also feature the War of Currents, Irish Home Rule (championed by Parnell and Gladstone – one of the most divisive and consequential political issues of the time), Special Branch (now Counter Terrorism Command – formed in 1883 to combat The Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB) – a precursor to the IRA. The IRB’s bombing campaign of England in the 1860s has been described as the inception of republican terrorism…

“Episode 4 concerns two compelling conflicts: the War of Currents and the police’s struggle to win the war against Irish republican terrorism. Detective Constable Flight plays a critical role but will he pass the test…?”

– Jamie Crichton, writer of Ripper Street: Dynamite and a Woman

MARCH 15 – 09:00PM – BBC AMERICA

MARCH 16 – 12:45AM – BBC AMERICA

Photo copyright: Matthias Heurich

Damian: Hi Leanne and thanks for this. I wanted to begin by saying how lovely you looked in last week’s episode but I’m afraid you might go all Women’s Lib and hit me with your handbag…

Leanne: Thanks very much! I can’t take much of the credit I’m afraid as there is a whole lot of talented people responsible for my appearance in Ripper Street… and for the record I’ve got one hell of an aim with the ole hand-bag.

Damian: If I were to take you out on a date – and I’m not promising anything! – is it still OK for a gentleman to open the door for a lady and pay for the meal or is this so last century?

Leanne: It’s tricky isn’t it gender politics in the modern age! I think I’ll go with ‘if you ask me out you pay, if I ask you out I pay, if we end up going out let’s take turns o’ piece’. And I’ll open my own door ta.

Damian: Miley Cyrus – feminist icon or twerking twit?

Leanne: Oh Miley! Well I’m not fussed on twerking twit, but feminist icon makes me want to weep!

Damian: Before we talk about Ripper Street, I really want to ask you about your critically acclaimed one-woman play, The Match Box, which was written by the celebrated Irish playwright and poet Frank McGuinness and directed by BAFTA nominated Lia Williams. Can you tell me about your character Sal, because there were aspects of the story which were quite ambiguous at times?

Leanne: Sal is a single mother who was born in England to Irish parents. When the play begins she is living alone in a house on Valencia Island after her only daughter has been murdered in crossfire during a shooting whilst walking home from school. Sal strikes matches continually throughout the play referencing hell and the smell of sulphur and as the story unfolds the audience learn that the boys who are suspected of the shooting have died in sinister circumstances, and that something more than grief may be compelling Sal to share her story. There is something terrifying and dark about what the death of her child has done to her and what she may or may not have done to avenge her.

Got a light? Leanne as Sal in The Match Box

Damian: I just want to make this clear to the readers; there were no other actors, no props (except a single box of matches) so you were alone on stage for about 1 hour and forty minutes with only accompanying lighting and music. As someone who did quite a bit of acting myself during my student days, I’m both intrigued and terrified by this – was there ever a point where you wondered if you were up to this enormous challenge?

Leanne: Only every day! When I first read it I was floored by Frank’s astonishing play and Sal, so I was pretty consumed with landing the job as I really felt that I had to play her. It was only after I’d been cast, (and had a little jump up and down!), I realised I’d have to do it at some point in front of an actual audience… and cue panic attack! Seriously though, it was the challenge of it that was one of the reasons I wanted to do it and I learnt so much from it as an actor. I miss it and Sal a lot.

Damian: Describe the minutes leading up to the very first performance – just how nervous were you?

Leanne: Lia Williams is the most amazing director and we had a pretty intense bond working together so she gave me the most inspiring pep talk before I went on stage, but that final hour before the first preview was one of the loneliest of my life! I think I went into some sort of trance because I genuinely don’t remember the walk from the dressing room to the stage! Once the lights snapped up it was like someone clicked their fingers and I was off. It was one of the most special nights of my life.

Damian: You’ve said in a previous interview about the play that your body was registering grief during every night of the performance, what exactly did you mean by this?

Leanne: It was a pretty all consuming process, and the story was so devastating that it was one of only a few jobs where I carried the play around with me all the time. The final moment on stage embodied of all of the pain and anger and despair this woman felt at the murder of her daughter and it culminated in a sort of primal scream and a total physical collapse. After the show every night I would have to take a bit of time to steady myself as I felt sick and dizzy, and just a bit out of it. I think going it alone every night made it unlike anything I’d ever had to do before.

Damian: What’s this I hear about you performing on stage for Ben Elton in your pants?

Leanne: Aha! Where did you find that! It was my first job out of drama school in a production of Ben Elton’s play Popcorn. I played a news anchor covering a hostage situation and came out about 10 minutes before the end in my knickers and bra. Just to clarify it was a stage direction not a character choice and there was a good reason!

Damian: In addition to receiving rave reviews for your tour de force performance, you were the only female nominated for best performance in a play category at the Theatre Awards UK for your role as Sal in The Match Box, did this lead directly to your part in Ripper Street?

Leanne: The award nomination didn’t but the play definitely did. We had opened at the Liverpool Playhouse sold out and extended for a month, then we transferred to the Tricycle Theatre in London the following summer. The brilliant Kate Rhodes James who casts Ripper Street was at our press night in London and brought me in a few days later to meet for the part of Jane Cobden. I love that this job which I loved, came from The Match Box.

Leanne at the Theatre Awards the bloody show-off!

Damian: Let’s talk about Jane Cobden. I understand that she was quite a complex character who is perhaps best remembered for her pioneering political work in women’s rights and highlighting late Victorian concepts of gender. However, there was a lot more to her than that wasn’t there? – for example, she was never a single-issue politician and displayed an equal passion for causes such as Irish independence, anti-imperialism, free trade and Congo reform to name but a few. Given the much discussed shortage of strong female characters in television, it must be a huge thrill to play such an iconic figure in Victorian history?

Leanne: It really was! My Auntie Nelly was a Suffragette, and it’s become a bit of a running joke in my family which is full of very strong, independant, eccentric women, ( I have a picture of my mum with Germaine Greer on my wall!). The lovely thing about researching Jane is exactly as you said, she was really complicated. As well as being a socialist and a feminist, she was also a bit of a card, whose social circle was full of artists and bohemians and people who were really frowned upon by ‘decent’ society. Lots of what I read painted a picture of someone devoted to her causes, and really bloody good fun! I’d like to sit down with our Jane over a few lemonades and chew the fat.

The real Jane Cobden – not bad but not as fit as our Leanne!

Damian: I’ve mentioned Sandra Gilbert and Susan Gubar’s work, The Madwoman in the Attic (1979), before in my writing on Ripper Street but I think it’s worth highlighting here again with reference to your character. Their text examines Victorian literature from a feminist perspective and highlights the male writer’s propensity to portray female characters as either “angel” or “monster”. It argues that women were written as either pure and angelic or rebellious and a threat to the more “reasoned and intellectual” man. Given the diverse range of female characters in Ripper Street, what would Gilbert and Gubar make of Long Susan, Rose and Jane Cobden?

Leanne: Well for the record I’m not sure that’s just a Victorian issue, or even one confined to drama! I think Ripper Street is really clever in it’s approach to female characters. At a glance they do conform to a stereotype, the prostitute and the madam for example, but the writing immediately subverts that. Yes they are women who are defined by their circumstances and often the men around them, but they are striving constantly to break away from those constraints as best they can with what they have, in what is very definitely a man’s world, whilst the actresses who play them, (MyAnna and Charlene), do it with a grace, strength and complexity that makes them anything but cliches. I also think context is really important. The show is set during a period in history where there was little or no help for those born into poverty, and social mobility was almost non existent. Most likely if you were born poor you died poor and violence towards women especially those who were most vulnerable whether they worked in a brothel or the workhouse was commonplace. People like Jane Cobden devoted their lives to social reform to try to change that and I’m glad it’s touched upon as it can’t all be bonnets and high tea on the lawn. I also think it’s great that we see Jane Cobden not only as a politician, but as a woman who isn’t afraid to be forthright in her personal life at a time when the ideal woman was supposed to resemble a shrinking violet.

Damian: What can you tell us about tonight’s episode?

Leanne: I won’t give too much away but Reid and the boys are working on a case that involves the Irish independence movement and the ideologies that pitted the ballot box against the bomb. Flight goes undercover trying to infiltrate the organisation in London, and Reid finds himself in need of information that takes him back to the offices of a certain Jane Cobden.

Damian: Did you know that one of Jane Cobden’s sisters, Ellen Millicent Ashburner, was married to the artist Walter Sickert who is now a popular Jack the Ripper suspect?

Leanne: I did not know that, and it makes me feel a bit icky.

Damian: Could make for an interesting spin-off – shall I have a word with Richard?

Leanne: Do it. Do it now. Do it quickly.

Jack the Ripper suspect Walter Sickert

Damian: Now there was more than a little chemistry going on between Jane and Inspector Reid in last week’s episode. The good inspector has been particularly morose of late, could you be the one to finally lift his spirits?

Leanne: Listen, our Jane is all about public service and if the good Inspector is in need of a lift, I’m sure she’s the woman for the job.

Damian: What can we look forward to seeing you in next?

Leanne: I’ĺl be appearing in ‘Lucan’ as Sandra Rivett at the end of the year, and I pop up in the third installment of David Hare’s ‘Worricker Trilogy’ with Billl Nighy and Helena Bonham Carter. I’m currently filming The Woman in Black: Angel of Death in London playing the Woman herself. Back in a corset again except this time I’m dead!

Damien in a scene from tonight's episode, Dynamite and a Woman

Damien with Charlie Murphy in a scene from tonight’s episode, Dynamite and a Woman

Damian: Final question and possibly the most important. Whitechapel just ain’t big enough for two chaps with the same first name – so, it’s either Damien Molony or me! Let’s dish some dirt and be rid of him – tell me something bad about him – does he kick puppies or steal sweets from little children perhaps?

Leanne: All of the above. What else begins with D??? Diva that’s what… (actually the rumours are true… he’s a lovely bloke and a brilliant actor but don’t tell him i said so).

Damian: Leanne, thank you so much indeed for this interview – you’re the best!

Leanne: B’Boom! (love what you did there D…thanks) xx

I would also like to express my thanks to Jamie Crichton

~ Damian Michael Barcroft ~

https://twitter.com/mrdmbarcroft

https://twitter.com/RipperStreet

ROSE RETURNS!

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Damian Michael Barcroft previews tonight’s RIPPER STREET in an exclusive interview with Charlene McKenna

Season 2: Episode 3: Become Man

MAR O8 – 9:00PM – BBC AMERICA

MAR 09 – 12:00AM – BBC AMERICA

DAMIAN: Charlene, it’s really great to have you back and thanks so much for talking to us about Rose and Ripper Street.

CHARLENE: Thank you for talking to me.

D: Where have you been these past two weeks – we’ve missed you?

C: Ah, good things come to those who wait…

D: Indeed, I understand from interviewing other members of the Ripper Street cast that Rose has quite a journey in series two, what can you tell us without revealing spoilers?

C: She does indeed. My story kicks off properly further into the series. Rose is trying to make that better life for herself. The one she told Bennet she wanted. Trying being the operative word. She is no longer in Tenter Street but let’s just say it’s not easy getting ahead as a woman in Victorian London. And with Bennet gone and married, she’s very alone. *sobs*

D: More specifically, tell us about tonight’s episode and the return of Rose Erskine?

C: Tonight we see a glimpse into Rose’s world and where she has been, we enter the world of the Victorian music hall.

Rose in a scene from tonight’s episode

D: I remember trying to warn you quite a few times in series one to stop wandering off with strange men but Rose just wouldn’t listen, is she a little more streetwise this second time around?

C: Ha. You and me both. Rose is streetwise and was then, but she was a victim of circumstance. She never wanted to get into a black maria with strange men but had no choice. And as for Mr. Cordial (Victor Silver played by David Oakes), she thought she was going on a date with a gentleman in a park. This season she goes to places she should never dare but she is on a mission. A mission very close to her heart.

D: Now, on the subject of men – there were two events in series one that really upset the fans – one was the death of the much missed Hobbs and the other was when you broke poor Drake’s heart – can you please explain yourself young lady?

C: Poor Hobbs! I am certain he is haunting Leman St. As for Rose and Bennet, the never ending story. Rose was chasing a dime losing a treasure. She couldn’t see what was right in front of her. But she is not the type of girl to settle. She has big dreams and aspirations and wants to follow them and in that I think she is very brave. A tad naive maybe but there is armor in her youth. No one gave her credit for that and for her honesty in telling him it straight. She didn’t lead him on. However she may deeply regret letting him go…

Rose and Drake in series 1

D: Drake now seems happily married to another fallen lady, Bella – any regrets?

C: Oh don’t start me on BELLA, haha… lets just say she ain’t all she’s cracked up to be.

D: Whatever romantic encounters you might have in series two, please tell me they don’t involve Detective Constable Albert Flight – Molony this and Molony that is all I’ve heard for the past few weeks – what’s that Damien got that this Damian hasn’t?

C: Haha…oh have you not heard Rose and Flight are making a spin off?! Our DamIEN has so much. Where does one start? Great jumpers! He has great jumpers. Oh and buckets of talent, humour, grace, charm he was a pleasure to be around and work with everyday. We laughed a lot.

D: Everyone has such lovely things to say about you whenever I mention your name. Mark Dexter couldn’t sing your praises high enough and I did an interview with MyAnna Buring recently in which we spoke of your wonderful chemistry together, is it a sisterly or motherly bond between Rose/Susan and perhaps even Charlene/MyAnna?

C: I pay a lot of people a lot of money for all those nice things to be said. Mark was a joy to work with and that meant a lot considering the content of what we were filming. MyAnna and I are tight as nun’s knickers (is it ok to use that expression?). Rose/Long Susan I would say motherly, MyAnna and me? Definitely sisterly. We snot and sing and laugh all over each other.

MyAnna & Charlene/Long Susan & Rose

D: You are currently appearing at the Almeida Theatre [this ended last November] in a production of Ghosts – is this in the Demi Moore or Whoopi Goldberg role?

C: Who do you think?? Goldberg!

D: You might be too young to remember this but Robson & Jerome did a cracking cover of Unchained Melody – whatever happened to those guys?

C: Of course I remember. Not to mention Saturday Night at the Movies, nice quiff Jerome!! I don’t know, they were clearly bursting with talent, though I’m glad it’s over so we can have Jerome on Ripper with us.

D: Seriously now, your production of Henrik Ibsen’s Ghosts has received great reviews so many congratulations indeed. It’s been adapted and directed by Richard Eyre, was it slightly daunting working with someone who has had such a significant impact on the world of theatre, opera, film and television – not to mention the fact that he was Director of the National Theatre for many years and even Knighted for his services to the arts?

C: Thank you. It’s been amazing. Yeah you could say that. I was sent to his house and told I would be allowed to read the scene once. The end. Uhhh ok… so I did, then he asked me to read it all (the play), he told me to “busk it”, so I did, and I was offered the part within the hour. Gulp!

D: Having said that, you’re no stranger to critical acclaim yourself – where do you keep your awards including the IFTA for best actress?

C: They are all tucked in safely at home with my mammy and daddy.

Charlene and her IFTA Television Award

D: You play Regina Engstrand in Ghosts who is a character wanting desperately to escape from the lower classes and isn’t afraid to use sex in her pursuit of upward mobility – echoes of Rose perhaps?

C: In some ways, yes, they are two women trapped by their circumstances and wanting out. But Regina doesn’t actually use sex just her appeal, she is a lot more innocent than Rose. Rose is more street and been exposed to much more harsh realities. Regina is an opportunistic girl alright but she’s a virgin and has grew up on a very remote island. The two girls do share some similarities but I see them as very different.

D: What will you be up to when Ghosts ends at the end of this month?

C: We are going into the West-end I believe. Life does indeed imitate art!

D: I’ve previously got myself into a spot of bother for choosing favourites amongst the ladies at Tenter Street so I won’t make the same mistake again although there can be little harm in concluding with a quote from one of my very favourite episodes, “Nothing’s more lovely than a Rose”. Thank you Charlene – Adieu!

C: ‘Til you get pricked by the thorns…. Thank you so much for talking to me.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS INTERVIEW WAS ORIGINALLY POSTED IN NOVEMBER AND GHOSTS IS NO LONGER PLAYING AT THE ALMEIDA THEATRE

All images from ‘Ghosts’ are copyright of Hugo Glendinning

Charlene as Regina Engstrand and Leslie Manville as Helene Alving

Charlene with Brian McCardie as Jacob Engstrand

Elva Trill Interview – we talk Ripper Street, some bloke called Damien Molony and erm, scuba diving!

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Damian Michael Barcroft talks to guest lead Elva Trill in an exclusive interview previewing tonight’s second episode of Ripper Street – Am I Not Monstrous?

Damian: Hi Elva and thanks for doing this. You must be excited about tonight?

Elva: I’m really excited and curious to see all the drama unfold!

D: Will you be watching the show tonight as it airs?

E: Absolutely! I will be watching it with my family. We have nibbles and wine at the ready.

A dramatic scene from tonight’s episode 2: “Am I Not Monstrous?”

D: Last week’s opener was an incredibly powerful episode but tonight’s is particularly intense isn’t it?

E: Yes it is. Every episode is sort of a mini drama in itself isn’t it really? This one is compelling from the outset. It highlights a mother’s love entwined with copious amounts of fear and being faced with the challenge of making the right choice.

D: What can you tell us about your character, Stella Brooks – without revealing any spoilers?

E: She is an incredibly strong and courageous young woman, and as you will all see tonight she is a little bit different….

RIPPER STREET: Elva as Stella Brooks

D: We were introduced to Joseph Merrick, better known as the Elephant Man in the last episode and he also has a significant role in tonight’s story, do you share any scenes with him?

E: Unfortunately I don’t. Our paths crossed on set but not on film. I had the pleasure of seeing him in action during rehearsal and he is an incredible actor and a gentleman.

The stunning make-up by Waldo Mason Effects Ltd

D: Merrick is played by Joseph Drake in a remarkable performance and the make-up by Waldo Mason Effects is simply stunning, you must have sometimes felt rather overwhelmed by the whole scale of production?

E: Waldo is a genius in his field. The way he helped physically transform the actors into their character is truly astonishing. It was sometimes difficult to separate reality from fantasy because the effects were so realistic but it did make for some very interesting and fun days on set.

D: I believe that tonight’s episode also features another attraction – the eagerly anticipated introduction of a certain Det. Con. Albert Flight played by someone called Damien Molony. Apparently he has an army of fans out there going absolutely crazy about this and although I suppose he’s not a bad looking lad – seriously, what’s all the fuss about?

E: I am not surprised that he has an army of fans. He is a brilliant actor and also very pleasing to the eye and I’m sure we’ll be seeing a lot more of him.

The introduction of Damien Molony as Detective Albert Flight

D: Describe how you came to be cast in Ripper Street?

E: I had the great fortune of attending the Factory Screen Acting Programme this year where I met and briefly worked with Louise Kiely. I was originally asked to read for a different part but after meeting the director Tom Shankland I was subsequently cast as Stella as Tom felt I was more suited to this role.

D: The filming took place in Dublin and I was wondering if the show is popular in Ireland?

E: Hugely so. It has an ardent fan base in Ireland. This isn’t surprising as it is a wonderfully written and directed production.

D: I can imagine there are plenty of Irish actors all scrambling to get a part in the show?

E: Of course, for all actors starting out especially, it can be very difficult to get offers of good work let alone work on a great show like Ripper Street. Without doubt the Factory Screen acting course has been a huge benefit to me personally when sourcing roles and my fellow “Factorians” are also being offered great roles which is wonderful.

D: I noticed on one of your acting profiles that it lists scuba diving as one of your special skills – is this what they’re teaching young actors in drama schools these days?

E: Ha, no! but I was born in Sligo on the North West coast of Ireland which is renowned for the best surfing in the world. Water sports were a big part of my childhood but I am also a big believer in being prepared. I have taken courses in firearms, archery, horse riding and scuba diving as you mentioned. So just incase Angelina Jolie isn’t available for Lara Croft 3 – I will be ready! 🙂

D: And what’s this about you writing music and short stories?

E: Yes I sing and I love to write songs and stories. I hope someday to combine the two – acting and singing. If ever they are making a sequel to Les Mis I hope they look me up. I am available ha!

Elva as Josephine Brown

D: Before Ripper Street, you were in Am an Ghatair [Troubled Times] which won an Irish Film and Television Academy Award, wasn’t this the true story of Josephine Brown?

E: It is a story about the life of Josephine Brown who became a spy for the IRA during the time of the troubles in the early part of the twentieth century. She did this in an effort to get custody of her son. She too was a hugely courageous strong young woman who knew that her death would be the outcome if she was found out. It was an honour to play her in this wonderful production directed by Paddy Hayes

D: What are you working on at the moment – didn’t you recently film a comedy?

E: I have just finished Play Next Door- Shine On for RTE directed by Charlie McCarthy. It is a one hour drama based in Bray, co. Wicklow. I play the character Sandra, an aspiring singer torn between her two loves, music and the man in her life. The comedy you mentioned is a pilot called ‘Artists’ that is about struggling actors in Ireland and pokes fun at the industry. There is also nice project in the pipeline for next year. Fingers crossed!

D: Thanks for taking the time to talk to us about Ripper Street – can’t wait to see your episode tonight!

E: My pleasure. I hope you enjoy it. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to talk to you about Ripper Street.

~ Damian Michael Barcroft ~

Season 2: Episode 2

Am I Not Monstrous?

MAR 01 – 09:00PM – BBC AMERICA

Mar 02 – 12:00AM – BBC AMERICA

Images from the award winning drama-documentary Am an Ghatair starring Elva Trill as Josephine Brown

Joseph Merrick – the Elephant Man FAQ

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Joseph Carey Merrick

(1862-1890)

The true story of Joseph Carey Merrick, better known to the world as “the Elephant Man”, is as dramatic and indeed tragic as anything that television and filmmakers could ever attempt to portray onscreen. However, Joseph’s story is also an inspiring one that I hope will perhaps serve to remind the reader that courage and determination can prevail over any perceived disability or disfigurement.

The combined talents of creator/writer Richard Warlow, director Tom Shankland, Waldo Mason’s stunning special make-up effects and not least the man who brings Mr. Merrick physically to life – actor Joseph Drake, have somehow managed to fuse historical fact with unique artistry to produce one of the best episodes of Ripper Street so far. Therefore, I thought it might prove useful to address the inevitable misconceptions with the following frequently asked questions…

Joseph as portrayed in episode two of “Ripper Street: Am I Not Monstrous?”

Why is the Elephant Man sometimes referred to as “John Merrick”?

Most people’s first introduction to the Elephant Man was the excellent 1980 film directed by the visionary David Lynch in which John Hurt portrays him as John Merrick. This mistake is because Sir Frederick Treves (Merrick’s doctor and friend) himself even refers to him as John in his various writings on the subject including The Elephant Man And Other Reminiscences. There are various theories as to why this was the case including that he wanted the reader to identify Joseph with the everyman or simply that he himself called him John.

It is also worth noting that the film accurately portrays Merrick, his deformity and most of the various events of his life although not in the chronological order in which they are presented.

The stunning make-up by Waldo Mason Effects Ltd

Was Joseph deformed at birth?

Joseph looked like any other child at birth and it was not until he was about one that he showed the first sign of disfigurement which was a small swelling inside his upper lip. Additionally, aged just four, he injured his left hip joint in a fall which became diseased leaving him permanently disabled.

What did Joseph actually suffer from?

This has been debated over many years with several leading doctors and scientists all having various different theories. However, most recently it is agreed that Joseph’s condition was either Proteus Syndrome (overgrowth of bone that grow on existing bone/skin) or Neurofibromatosis (tumours that grow around nerve endings). He also developed a heart condition and severe episodes of bronchitis.

Joseph Merrick played by the acclaimed stage actor Joseph Drake

How did Joseph die?

Joseph died Friday, 11th April 1890 from a weakened heart and most significantly, the weight of his head cutting off his air supply. Joseph had to sleep in an upright position because of the size of his head (36 inches around). Treves wrote that Joseph often spoke of his wish to sleep as others did and believes this is what caused his death. However, the autopsy report simply states that he was found dead lying on his back.

Could Joseph have been Jack the Ripper?

NO! Joseph was incapable of running, only had the full use of one arm and his appearance was rather distinctive – I’m guessing he’d have been caught during the first murder, let alone the fifth! Leading historians and Ripperologists are uncertain as to the origin of Joseph as a Jack the Ripper suspect although we know that entrepreneur Tom Norman exhibited Joseph in Whitechapel Road and in 1888 (the year of the murders), another businessman was displaying wax models of the Ripper’s victims in the same building.

Did Michael Jackson buy Joseph’s skeleton?

AGAIN, NO! Some of Joseph’s remains were buried in an unmarked grave and his skeleton is still kept safely at the Royal London Hospital.

If you would like to learn more about Joseph Merrick, I recommend the book Measured By the Soul: The Life of Joseph Carey Merrick by Jeanette Sitton and Mae Siu-Wai Stroshane who also created the following tribute website: http://www.josephcareymerrick.com/

Proceeds from this book will benefit Proteus Syndrome treatment and research.

All Ripper Street images and content are copyright of BBC/Tiger Aspect Productions

Damian Michael Barcroft

https://twitter.com/mrdmbarcroft

https://twitter.com/RipperStreet

Exclusive preview of tonight’s RIPPER STREET with MyAnna Buring

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RIPPER STREET

Season 2 – Episode 1: Pure as the Driven

Feb 22 – 9:00PM – EST – BBC AMERICA

FEB 23 – 12:00AM – EST – BBC AMERICA

Writer/historian Damian Michael Barcroft talks to MyAnna Buring in an exclusive interview previewing tonight’s eagerly anticipated return to RIPPER STREET…

Damian: Hi MyAnna and thanks so much for taking the time to tell us a little bit about tonight’s episode. Well, it’s been quite a ride! The first series of Ripper Street was a huge success and here we are again, less than a year later talking about the second – it’s been quite a turnaround hasn’t it?

MyAnna: This episode should bring Ripper Street crashing back into people’s living rooms. The scripts are action packed and existing characters and new ones have challenging and intriguing journeys for audiences to join them on… We’ve had so much fun returning to this world and these roles so we hope audiences enjoy it as much this time round as we have.

D: In all honesty, I had some initial concerns about how quickly Ripper Street was resuming production. Indeed, the last episode of series one was only broadcast in February (in the UK) and I believe filming began in April/May. However, having seen the first episode of series two, all doubts were quickly put aside within the first five minutes – it literally packs quite a punch doesn’t it?

M: Yes it does pack a punch. Richard Warlow doesn’t hold back nor does Tom Shankland our first block director. I think everyone felt there would be no point returning if we didn’t do so in a big way…

D: Was it difficult to arrange the schedules around filming, I mean Ripper Street has quite an impressive ensemble cast and you’re all very busy with other projects – not least yourself and Downton Abbey?

M: It worked out well… Agents and producers are very clever at juggling shooting schedules… Personally I like being busy doing things I love. And I love playing Long Susan and Edna.

D: Just between you, me and a couple thousand followers – we promise not tell either Richard Warlow or Julian Fellowes – what’s your favourite show, Ripper or Downton or is this like asking Sophie to choose between one of her children?

M: Don’t force me to do a Sophie! I love them both.

D: So, series two and you’ve no idea how many emails and tweets I’ve had asking when Ripper Street returns over the last year. There really is a huge fanbase for the show and its characters. Without upsetting the BBC and having them send the boys from H Division banging at my door, what can you tell us about Long Susan in the new series?

M: This season we get to witness Long Susan go through huge changes. Just as falling in love and marrying Jackson once upon a time set wheels in motion that would have irreversible consequences for her and her life, so does what we see her go through this season change her forever… Two new characters in particular will effect her deeply.

D: There’s a beautiful scene between yourself and Captain Homer Jackson (Adam Rothenberg) in the opening episode but Susan is in quite a dark place isn’t she?

M: Jackson and Susan are very much together now- together trying to recreate some semblance of marital bliss the best way they know how. However, they are facing a serious economic crisis and Susan is being blackmailed by a vindictive Whitechapel gangster… He hangs like a dark, dangerous threat over her hopes for calm and happiness.

D: I must say that one of my favourite elements of the show are the scenes between Susan and Rose (Charlene McKenna). Charlene doesn’t appear in the first episode but can we look forward to more scenes with the two of you because you both have a wonderful chemistry together?

M: I love Charlene- personally and as an actress… So our scenes are always great fun to play and yes there will be more of those to come. Rose has a great story line this season…her and Susan are friends and there is a distinctly maternal sense of responsibility that Long Susan feels for Rose. She will go to great lengths to look out for her and help her achieve her dreams.

D: Long Susan always looks immaculate onscreen but she can get down and dirty with the best of them during a fight scene. Do you enjoy these action sequences as much as Susan seems to?

M: I do enjoy action sequences. As long as they are properly rehearsed. G our fight coordinator is so creative and supportive- the work he does on Ripper Street is fantastic. How a character reacts to threats, violence, attack tells you a lot about them, and Long Susan will not go down without a fight.

D: MyAnnna, it’s been an absolute privilege to speak with you – thanks very much indeed.

M: Thank you. Hope you and all your readers enjoy the next season!

~ Damian Michael Barcroft ~

On twitter? Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Whitechapel. I’ll be your illicit guide through the dark and bloody RIPPER STREET…

Follow @RipperStreet and @MrDMBarcroft for more exclusive interviews and news!

RIPPER STREET

Season 2 – Episode 1: Pure as the Driven

Feb 22 – 9:00PM – EST – BBC AMERICA

FEB 23 – 12:00AM – EST – BBC AMERICA

Exclusive preview of tonight’s RIPPER STREET with Aaron Ly

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RIPPER STREET

Season 2 – Episode 1: Pure as the Driven

Feb 22 – 9:00PM – EST – BBC AMERICA

FEB 23 – 12:00AM – EST – BBC AMERICA

Writer/historian Damian Michael Barcroft talks exclusively with the actor/fight performer and choreographer, Aaron Ly who stars in tonight’s episode of RIPPER STREET…

Damian: Thank you very much for speaking with me Aaron. It’s a real privilege and I’m going to be very careful about what questions to ask because I’ve seen you in the first episode and you’re a bit scary – do you promise not to beat me up?

Aaron: Now that depends on what you ask, only kidding. It is a pleasure to speak with you too.

D: Aaron, you’ve already accumulated quite an impressive list of screen credits: Skyfall, World War Z and The Fast & Furious 6 to name but a few and you haven’t even been in the business that long have you?

A: No not long. Many of my credits have come from my ability as a fight performer. There are also not that many oriental actors who have trained in both acting and martial arts.

D: You were raised in a family of martial artists, what particular fighting styles do you practice?

A: I originally trained in traditional kung fu, and more westernised arts like boxing and kick boxing. But these days I practice no specific fighting style, when I train I practice non telegraphed striking from a relaxed state and interception using a wooden dummy.

D: Which martial artists have you found most inspiring, I believe there was a particularly significant encounter when you were seventeen?

A: I find inspiration from all styles of martial arts but I think it is up to the unique individual to find what is useful to them and make it theirs. Yes, in my teens I met an old Wing Chun teacher, he opened my eyes to a more scientific approach to martial arts. He taught me the forms but more importantly, he taught me how to forget the forms and make my movements instinctive.

D: Can you tell me about the influence Bruce Lee had on you as a child?

A: To the surprise of many, as a child, not much. It was only as a young adult did he really influence me after reading his literature. His training and philosophy on life really affected me. His books took me years to read because every time I came across an idea I applied it to my own training before I read any more.

D: I understand that you are very passionate about Hong Kong cinema – I was wondering which particular films and actors you admire?

A: There are so many, where do I start! I’m a great fan of early films of Chow Yun Fat, Leslie Cheung and Andy Lau. In terms of action films; Jackie Chan, Jet Li and Donnie Yen are my heroes.

D: On the subject of fighting, do you sometimes sit in a restaurant or bar and look round and think, “Yeah, I could take anyone of these guys”?

A: No, not like that. But I have a habit of visualizing people attacking me when I walk past them in the street. So it’s more like, “What if this guy strikes me at this distance, can I intercept?”

D: It must be cool though to know you could take care of yourself should you ever run into trouble?

A: Martial Arts is more of a way of life now, sounds cheesy I know. But there is an art in training, for striking or defending, and it is expressing this art which inspires me to train. So I never think of it like that.

D: Seriously though, there are many angry kids out there who have channelled their frustrations into things like martial arts and have found a real sense of peace and self worth. Have you found this to be the case in your experience?

A: To a certain extent, yes. When times are tough I always turn to my training, because your training will never betray you; whatever amount you put in, you get back in results.

D: Is it true that you were quite shy as a child yourself?

A: Yes, I was quite the introvert and didn’t have many friends. Spent most my time with martial arts and watching movies.

D: I believe your parents wanted you to get a regular job as oppose to pursuing a career in film and television?

A: Yes, I guess most Chinese parents of my generation were like that. They wanted me to be a doctor or accountant.

D: In 2010 you decided to pursue your dream of becoming an actor – what prompted such a drastic life change?

A: I always had a dream of becoming an actor, but that was almost shunned upon in my community. In 2010 I was at that point in my life where I needed to decide what I ultimately wanted in life; if I was to give up everything to pursue this dream or forever forget about it.

Aaron Ly as Wong King-Fai and Kunjue Li in tonight’s ‘Ripper Street’

D: How did you come to be cast in Ripper Street?

A: I went to the audition and talked a lot about the character; where he came from, how he moved, what martial arts he learnt, his glory, his passions, his family, everything. Then, without being asked to, I got up and did a couple of moves in the auditioning room which was tiny, explaining how he should be fast with vigour but at the same time not flashy. I left the audition thinking maybe I was a bit too over-enthusiastic, soon later I was offered the part.

D: Without giving away too much of the plot, what can you tell us about your character Wong King-Fai in tonight’s episode?

A: Mmm… he’s on a mission and he’ll let no one stand in his way.

D: There is some pretty amazing and intense fighting in the opening episode – did you help to choreograph this?

A: Yes, along with an amazing stunt team. I did a lot of research on martial arts styles from Southern China during that time period, but a lot of the techniques were not used to keep the character more direct and gritty.

D: There’s a couple of fight scenes with Detective Sergeant Bennet Drake played by Jerome Flynn, well he’s getting on a bit now bless him, did you have to slow things down for him?

A: HAHA.. Jerome is great to work with and pretty swift with his billy club.

D: What can we look forward to seeing you in next?

A: I’m in talks about a British made martial arts movie at the moment, but it’s still early days. I really think we can do more for this genre and see more martial arts action on TV.

D: Aaron, you are brilliant in Ripper Street and it’s been great to talk to you – I wish you every success and happiness in the future.

A: It’s been a pleasure, Damian. Thank you for having me.

I’m very pleased to report that I survived the interview without a scratch. For more information about Aaron and his inspiring career, please visit his official website: www.aaronlyofficial.com

Also, please check out Aaron’s short film Handuken which was shortlisted in the Virgin Media shorts competition:

http://www.virginmediashorts.co.uk/film/5210/handuken#.UmUb51DbNEM

Scenes from ‘Handuken’

RIPPER STREET

Season 2 – Episode 1: Pure as the Driven

Feb 22 – 9:00PM – EST – BBC AMERICA

FEB 23 – 12:00AM – EST – BBC AMERICA

~ Damian Michael Barcroft ~

On twitter? Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Whitechapel. I’ll be your illicit guide through the dark and bloody RIPPER STREET…

Follow @RipperStreet and @MrDMBarcroft for more exclusive interviews and news!

Exclusive RIPPER STREET preview with Kunjue Li

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RIPPER STREET

Season 2 – Episode 1: Pure as the Driven

Feb 22 – 9:00PM – EST – BBC AMERICA

FEB 23 – 12:00AM – EST – BBC AMERICA

Writer/historian Damian Michael Barcroft interviews the actress and former model Kunjue Li in an exclusive preview of tonight’s Ripper Street…

Damian: Hi Kunjue and thank you so much for this. I’m very excited because in addition to many film credits, you’ve appeared in two of my favourite shows at the moment – Ripper Street and Peaky Blinders. You’ve been very busy this year haven’t you?

Kunjue: Yes, I had a good year since I graduated from drama school last year. I was lucky enough to be signed with a very good agent after my showcase and he has worked hard to put me to many good auditions. I am so grateful for that.

Kunjue Li in the BBC’s other epic period drama ‘Peaky Blinders’

D: Did you have dreams of becoming an actress and model when you were a little girl?

K: Yes it was always my childhood dream to be an actress. I remember when I was a kid, I used to sit in front of TV and pointed at the “princess” from the dramas shown on TV and say I want to be her.

D: The second series of Ripper Street is set in 1890 and Peaky Blinders is shortly after the first World War. This is a fascinating period in British history, do you enjoy performing in period dramas?

K: I love performing in period dramas, I always loved British period dramas, and love the costumes and it is such a different culture from where I came from.

D: How did you come to be cast in Ripper Street?

K: I went for the audition and 3 recalls. Tom is a brilliant director, I enjoyed talking to him about my character during the audition and the directions he gave me really helped. Kate is an amazing casting director, she was so friendly and so supportive throughout the process. I remember at the last recall, I was asked to improvise something, and after I finished, Kate gave me a thumbs up, which made my day.

D: Who do you play in tonight’s episode?

K: I play Blush Pang a gangster moll, a drug dealer, a Chinese girl who is ambitious and cold – she does anything to survive.

D: Without giving too much of the plot away, what can you tell us about the mysterious Blush Pang?

K: She is cold, independent, driven, and daring. She is clever, knows what she is doing, and uses whatever is useful to her. She only has one weakness – her love for her lover.

D: You look absolutely beautiful in tonight’s episode and your costumes are gorgeous! You must have had a lot of fun dressing up like that?

K: I love the costumes and the jewellery. I was told some of the jewellery I wear was actually antique. Dressing in a corset is tough though, but it helped me getting into the character physically.

Kunjue Li in costume as Blush Pang

D: The sets and production design are also amazing, can you tell us a little bit about your first day of filming?

K: My first day of filming was quite easy, Tom was trying to ease me in. When I get on the set, I was amazed by the production design, it was the scene in Chinatown, everything looks so authentic, so oriental, and it was a night shoot, with the lights, shadows, I feel I went back in time and was in ancient china. It was magical.

D: There are some very exciting action scenes and awesome fight sequences tonight, many of which involve the brilliant Aaron Ly. He seems a very intense and focussed actor, what was it like working with Aaron?

K: Aaron is a amazing actor to work with, we knew each other prior to Ripper Street as we both went for an audition for a Chinese sitcom. He is very focused and driven, and he is an amazing martial artist. He really acts like my big brother – always looking out for me and helping me when I need.

D: Ripper Street has an enormous loyal fanbase and I’m guessing from the messages that I get that most of these are female. I suspect that one of the main attractions are the male leads and guest stars but who do you think is the most handsome man in Ripper Street?

K: Jerome Flynn.

D: What future film or TV projects have you currently got lined up?

K: I‘m working on a sketch at the moment, I help produce it and I also play the lead. We just had our script finished with a BBC writer. It is mainly about modern culture difference, and it is quite a funny script. We are looking into casting in a few weeks. I also help on the marketing side as I used to work as an event manager prior to drama school.

D: Kunjue, it’s been lovely to speak to you – thank you very much indeed.

K: Thank you very much, I am very excited to see the episode and hopefully will be able to work with everyone again. x

~ Damian Michael Barcroft ~

On twitter? Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Whitechapel. I’ll be your illicit guide through the dark and bloody RIPPER STREET…

Follow @RipperStreet and @MrDMBarcroft for more exclusive interviews and news!

Matthew Macfadyen and Kunjue Li in a acene from tonight's episode.

Matthew Macfadyen and Kunjue Li in a scene from tonight’s episode.

RIPPER STREET

Season 2 – Episode 1: Pure as the Driven

Feb 22 – 9:00PM – EST – BBC AMERICA

FEB 23 – 12:00AM – EST – BBC AMERICA

Exclusive interviews with the cast/crew of RIPPER STREET

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“Ladies and gentlemen, in the absence of the lecturer with your indulgence I would like to introduce Mr. Joseph Merrick, the Elephant Man. Before doing so I ask you please to prepare yourselves – brace yourselves up to witness one who is probably the most remarkable human being ever to draw the breath of life.

Ladies and gentlemen, I ask you please not to despise or condemn this man on account of his unusual appearance. Remember we do not make ourselves, and were you to cut or prick Joseph he would bleed, and that bleed or blood would be red, the same as yours or mine.”

– Tom Norman, Showman and manager of Joseph Merrick

Damian Michael Barcroft presents…

EXCLUSIVE RIPPER STREET CAST/CREW INTERVIEWS

Joseph Drake

I am very proud to announce that acclaimed stage actor and rising TV star Joseph Drake will be the first in a new series of my exclusive interviews to be published in The Whitechapel Society Journal.

Joseph Drake plays Mr. Joseph Carey Merrick – better known to the world as the Elephant Man in the first two episodes of the eagerly awaited return of Ripper Street this Monday night at nine on BBC One.

Fans of the show will also be able to read extracts from more exclusive new interviews plus the chance to read previous articles in full on Monday nights following the broadcast of each and every episode of the second series of Ripper Street.

Additional exclusive Ripper Street cast and crew interviews in the forthcoming issues of The Whitechapel Society will include some of the finest artists working in the British film and television industry…

Jassa Ahluwalia ~ Vincent Featherwell

Jonathan Barnwell ~ PC Dick Hobbs

Leanne Best ~ Jane Cobden

Ed Bruce ~ Visual Effects Supervisor

MyAnna Buring ~ Long Susan

Jamie Crichton ~ Screenwriter

Toby Finlay ~ Screenwriter

Steven Hall ~ Director of Photography

Kunjue Li ~ Blush Pang

Aaron Ly ~ Wong King-Fai

Waldo Mason ~ Prosthetic Make-up Effects

Colm McCarthy ~ Director

Charlene McKenna ~ Rose

Lorna Marie Mugan ~ Costume Designer

Gillian Saker ~ Bella

Dominik Scherrer ~ Composer

and…

Creator/lead writer of RIPPER STREET – Richard Warlow

Plus more to be confirmed!

Absolutely none of these interviews and articles would be possible without the generous help and support of the amazing cast and crew of Ripper Street. I am particularly indebted to Toby Finlay, Richard Warlow and Iain Mccallum at Tiger Aspect Productions. Thank you all so very much indeed! D x

The Whitechapel Society (WS1888) publish London’s premier journal for the study of Jack the Ripper and Victorian/Edwardian social history and culture. WS1888 have also written two books on the Whitechapel Murders, Jack the Ripper: The Suspects and Jack the Ripper: The Terrible Legacy. Please see the link below for more information including membership, subscription and back issues.

http://www.whitechapelsociety.com/

“AM I NOT MONSTROUS?”

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In Victorian England “freak-peeping” was an accepted form of entertainment and for twopence you could see a bearded lady, a pair of Siamese twins or you might just chance upon the greatest “attraction” of them all…

LONDON 1884: Dr. Frederick Treves, Surgeon and Lecturer in Anatomy at the London Hospital, paid a full shilling for a private view of what a gaudily-painted poster outside a vacant greengrocer’s shop in the Mile End Road claimed to be a frightful creature called The Elephant Man.

He was confronted with a limping, malodorous wreck whose distorted grotesque face was incapable of expression, and on whose body hung bags of spongy, pendulous tissue.

However, Treves was to discover that behind this monstrous appearence, there was a highly intelligent and sensitive human being. His name was Joseph Merrick and he appears in the first two episodes in the highly anticipated return of RIPPER STREET in the UK on Monday 28th October, 9pm on BBC1.

– Damian Michael Barcroft