Stepping into Richard Gere’s shoes for Pretty Woman: The Musical is no mean feat, but if anyone fits the bill, it’s Ben Hall. I’ve chatted to Ben a few times over the years, and it’s always such a pleasure.
Congratulations on scoring the role of Edward in Pretty Woman: The Musical. How does one go about playing a role made famous by Richard Gere?
I had to consider how much I would emulate him, as that’s what people remember from the film, but I also considered how much of myself I would bring. Fortunately, the script provides a lot of that. The show’s writer, Dave Norton, also wrote the film, so we get to recreate some iconic moments. But we also have new scenes with more depth to get into the inner lives of Edward and Vivian.
Ben Hall
How have you built your character?
I start by finding my voice and conducting background research. There’s the original script, ‘Pretty Woman 3000,’ which was a very dark story, but Touchstone Pictures ‘Disneyfied’ it into a lighter romantic comedy. But there are still some hints of that darker world. I dived into that late eighties and early nineties period to see what notable characters were in the business world and watched interviews to get a feel for the language. I also incorporate psychological traits, drawing on elements from the script and the real world, as well as the physical and emotional aspects, which I discover in rehearsal when interacting with others.
“Every gender or orientation has to question their sexuality at some point.”
Is there a particular part of the show you enjoy the most?
During rehearsals, I found the ‘Long Way Home’ duet in Act Two to be awesome. It’s a beautiful duet with Samantha Jade, who’s a wonderful singer. I also love the ending where Edward becomes less morally ambiguous and no longer wears a suit. He loses his façade, and it’s a joyous release. He makes a bit of a fool of himself, too, which I quite enjoy!
You recently played the alternate Robbie Williams in the biopic “Better Man.” What has the reaction been to your work?
It’s a funny one because no one can recognise me as the monkey, but the second unit director, Spencer Susser, gave amazing feedback. My family and friends had to guess which bits were me. It was more rewarding to actually film, such as the scene where I trash the house. We only had two takes because there was so much stuff to damage. It was sort of choreographed, but they gave me a lot of freedom to lose myself. I remember throwing a toaster through a mirror, which was followed by silence as Spencer called ‘cut’. All the crew then cheered, and that immediate feedback was lovely.
Ben Hall and Samantha Jade in Pretty Woman Photo credit Daniel Boud
Did you meet Robbie Williams?
Yes, he was there for the first two weeks. He’s incredibly charismatic and the consummate showman. I’ve always admired his music, particularly Swing When You’re Winning. It’s quite intriguing to meet someone of that fame and calibre. He has that cheekiness and tells hilarious stories, but he’s also quite neurotic, and you can see him judging himself, being hyper-aware of everyone watching him. I’m not sure if I’d want that level of fame.
You’ve clocked up over 1000 episodes of Neighbours. How do you feel that it’s coming to an end – again?
The first time was so emotional, but this time feels somewhat strange. It’s a much softer ending, and not the big hurrah it was before. I think ending Neighbours is a great shame because without those productions, we don’t have as many spaces for actors to learn and earn a living. Its demise seems to have a lot to do with the scrapping of Australian content quotas. It’s so disappointing, and I feel for everyone involved. It’s a shame for our industry and the fans.
“People always assumed I was gay because I did musical theatre.”
Have you returned to Ramsay Street to say goodbye?
Yes, I sure did. I had a couple of days of filming. It was a small role for Ned, which was more for me than anyone else. It was a chance to drop in, see everyone and say goodbye. A few of the old cast did that.
Ben Hall in rehearsals for Pretty Woman. Photo credit Daniel Boud
You’ve said before that your music songstress would be Beyonce – any others?
My co-star Samantha Jade! I’m listening to all her music again. She has some great anthems, such as Step Up. Surely that must go off at gay clubs on Oxford Street? I’ll have a night out at Stonewall and get this happening!
What about a male singer?
I love Ben Abraham’s music. I like the honesty of his lyrics. Never Been Better would be my favourite of his.
In the past, you said the track that would always get you on the dancefloor was Kanye West’s Gold Digger. What other song would keep you dancing?
Because of the show, I’ve been listening to a lot of Bryan Adams, who wrote the music. I really like the DJ Sammy remix of Heaven. That’ll keep me going on the dancefloor!
Ben Hall and Samantha Jade in Pretty Woman Photo credit Daniel Boud
Who would be your celebrity bromance?
Ryan Gosling! I watch a lot of rom-coms, and he pops up frequently. I like the cheekiness he gives out, just like Robbie Williams. It’s that twinkle in the eyes that says, “I know something that you don’t”.
Gay guys question their sexuality throughout their teen years. As a straight guy, did you do the same?
Yeah, definitely, and I’d be surprised if anyone doesn’t. Every gender or orientation has to question their sexuality at some point, especially when younger. People always assumed I was gay because I did musical theatre, and it’s amazing what you’ll start to question because of what others say. When you’re young, you just don’t know and think, “Maybe I am”. But unless you’re falling in love with someone of the same sex, liking musical theatre probably wouldn’t make you gay (Laughs).
Ben Hall with Samantha Jade in Pretty Woman: The Musical
You went to an all-boys Catholic school. What are your memories of your gay mates from back then?
I distinctly remember our drama teacher, Miss Hammond, and how protective she was. There were many gay students who gravitated toward drama, and she allowed them to be who they wanted to be and never allowed any bullying. She was the teacher in a safe space, where they could discuss things with her. Even though it was taboo in a Catholic school, she had an open-door policy for those conversations, and she was very well-loved for it.
“I’ve got some great gay mates in the show who love tanning by the pool. I may join in!”
What advice can you give to someone wanting to enter the industry?
Firstly, ensure you know exactly who is managing you, how they’re doing it, and that you approve. Managers are the first port of call for casting directors, so you want to know they have your best interests at heart. Secondly, protect yourself by being knowledgeable about contracts and what you’re owed. After the fiasco with the theatre company behind Elvis: A Musical Revolution – where the cast and crew are still owed money – I know how easy it is to get screwed over.
At the beach, briefs, boardshorts or butt naked?
(Laughs) I’ve never done a nude beach, but I did go skinny dipping once at Red Leaf with a bunch of people after a show. I’ll be down at Bondi Beach this summer in boardies. If I get really fit from doing Pretty Woman, then I might consider switching to briefs. I’ve got some great gay mates in the show who love tanning by the pool. I may join in!
If you went to the beach with former co-stars Matty Wilson (Neighbours) and Rob Mallett (Elvis), you’d be in great budgie smuggler company!
(Laughs) Yes, Matt Wilson is definitely a budgie smuggler, and Rob whips them out a bit too!
For more visit: prettywomanthemusical.com.au
Follow Ben on Instagram @benhall23
Ben Hall
