Exclusive Interview: John Foreman OAM Reveals Insider Insights on 'Best of Broadway' – A Must-Read for Musical Fans!

In this special interview, we have the privilege of sitting down with the esteemed John Foreman OAM, the visionary orchestrator behind this sensational showcase of musical theatre magic. As the excitement builds for this unforgettable journey through Broadway's greatest hits, join us as we delve into John Foreman's insights, inspirations, and insider secrets, offering a tantalising glimpse into what promises to be an unforgettable experience for theatre enthusiasts everywhere.

Are you looking forward to bringing the Aussie Pops Orchestra back to Costa Hall?

I can’t wait to bring the Aussie Pops Orchestra back to Costa Hall. We had such a wonderful time last year – the audience was amazing! I’m very much looking forward to this show.

Can you tell us a little bit about the talented crew you're bringing down to Geelong this time round?

I’m absolutely thrilled to be working with Australia’s leading lady, Marina Prior. She is such a great performer, and this is a wonderful chance for audiences to see Marina up close and “as herself” – not performing a character. Michael Cormick has the most magnificent, rich, baritone voice. He has performed all over the world, including on London’s West End, and is always brilliant. And Jemma Rix was absolutely sensational in Wicked and Frozen, and she is wonderful in this show. These three superstar performers will be backed by the luxurious, rich sound of a 30-piece orchestra. It will be an unforgettable night.

Does anyone have any pre-performance rituals or superstitions?

I don’t believe in superstitions – I think they’re bad luck. (um…?)

What was it about Marina, Michael and Jemma that encouraged you to bring them together for this show?

These three fantastic performers are all friends – and they’re all fabulous people – and they’re great artists in their own right, and particularly wonderful together. For instance, Marina and Michael have both starred in Phantom of the Opera; Marina in Australia, Michael on London’s West End. Best of Broadway provides Marina and Michael with an opportunity to perform a stunning duet from the Phantom. It’s absolutely sensational. Marina and Jemma perform You’ve Got a Friend (from Beautiful: The Carole King Musical) to celebrate their own friendship. And all three come together for a fabulous rendition of Anything Goes. It’s a dynamic line-up of three great stars.

What does a day in the life of John Foreman look like come show day?

Show day is always very exciting. We’ll all assemble in Costa Hall mid-afternoon, run through every item in the show and work closely with the Geelong Arts Centre team to ensure that everything is line-up and ready to go technically. Then, we all take a deep breath, and it’s showtime!

What is your favourite thing about performing to a large crowd?

The energy of a live audience is unlike anything else. There’s a great atmosphere, a sense of community, and a feeling of coming together. Music, ultimately, is a form of communication. If our audience leaves the concert hall feeling more joyful as a result of the experience, then we’ve done our job.

You have such an impressive resume, what would you say has been a career highlight?

I think my favourite moment was hearing my song, The Flame, at the opening ceremony of the Sydney 2000 Olympics. I was so thrilled to be part of that ceremony and very proud to see how Australia was so positively represented on the world stage.

Have you always had a passion for music? Or was it something that progressively developed as you got older?

I’ve always loved music. I was very lucky that we had a little upright piano at home when I was a kid; my parents taught me some of the basics, then I started taking formal lessons when I was six.

What is your favourite Broadway tune? If that's too tough... we'll take a favourite musical!

That is a tough one! I reserve the right to change my mind – but for now, I’ll say Anything Goes – a classic musical and Broadway tune and, for us, a great way to end Act I of Best of Broadway!

You would have met so many big names during your time on TV working with Bert Newton, your variety show The Big Night In with John Foreman and Australian Idol to name a few, who was your biggest ‘star struck’ moment?

I was completely star-struck when I met Burt Bacharach. I idolised his work and was a huge fan. I’m thrilled to say that, as well as being a genius, he was down-to-earth, friendly, easy-going and just a lovely person.

If you could have dinner with anyone (dead or alive) who would it be and why?

Let’s make it a small dinner party: Oprah Winfrey, Neil Armstrong and Kermit the Frog. I think we’d have some interesting conversations.

Lastly, what is next for John Foreman? Is there anything still on your career bucket list? A dream venue to perform at, a big name you would love to work with?

I’ve been very lucky, I’ve had the chance to work in wonderful venues (such as Costa Hall) and with wonderful artists (such as Marina, Michael and Jemma)! I hope I’m lucky enough to continue working!

As we conclude our exclusive interview with John Foreman OAM, it's evident that Best of Broadway is not just a show; it's an immersive journey through the most iconic moments of musical theater. With Foreman's passion and expertise driving every aspect, each performance promises to be a captivating celebration of Broadway's timeless allure. For theatre enthusiasts and newcomers alike, this is an unmissable opportunity to experience the magic firsthand. Don't miss out – secure your tickets now and prepare to be transported into the heart of Broadway's brilliance!