Two years later, he helped launch that show in theWest End.
The part won French actor Jean Dujardinthe Best Actor Oscar.
Productions in London and the U.S. are bound to follow.
(Clockwise from top left) Robbie Fairchild, Drew McOnie, Lindsey Ferrentino, Briana Craig and Gary WilmotMatt Murphy/Mark Senior
During the summer ,I saw a workshop ofThe Artistsfirst act with the splendidly poetic Fairchild playing Valentin.
Aha, shes our secret weapon, McOnie teased when we discussed Craig.
Briana was quite exceptional and stood out during the search, said McOnie.
Briana CraigMark Senior
He noted that the chemistry between Fairchild and Craig was absolutely palpable the moment they started working together.
Its a story that follows characters one at the beginning of their career and one more experienced.
I asked McOne whether Hazanavicius had given approval for the casting.
Smiling, McOnie said that he and his team welcomed Hazanavicius trust.
Its very rare not to have to be jumping through those gaps all the time.
The associate director/choreographer is Ebony Molina and the musical director is Chris Poon.
McOnie told me that there have been good rumblings from West End theater owners keen to transferThe Artistfrom Plymouth.
There are opportunities internationally too, he said.
A lot of American interest, actually.
It can play anywhere.
The West End isnt our only sights, McOnie said.
One important casting decision was settled during the shows development.
In the movie version a real terrier played a pivotal role.
So the dog will be a combination of puppetry and a top-notch dancer.
