Sheridan Smith tackles her most challenging role yet in the musical Opening Night, portraying a star with mental health struggles who is falling apart on stage. The 42-year-old actress opens up about how the role hits close to home, drawing from her own personal struggles that led her to temporarily leave a West End production in 2016. Despite her past battles with stress and exhaustion, Smith reveals that she has regained her confidence after a period of self-discovery.
Directed by Olivier Award winner Ivo van Hove and featuring music and lyrics by singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright, Opening Night is based on the 1977 film of the same name. Smith plays Myrtle, a character on the brink of a nervous breakdown following the death of a devoted fan. Drawing from her own experiences, Smith brings a raw authenticity to the role, highlighting the complexities of mental health struggles.
Outside of the theatre, Smith’s scenes have been drawing attention as onlookers gather to catch a glimpse of the actress in action. Embracing the live and unpredictable nature of theatre, Smith invites audiences to immerse themselves in the world of Opening Night.
Despite facing challenges in her personal life, Smith acknowledges the unwavering support of her fans, especially during times of grief. Reflecting on her journey as a working-class actress, Smith emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for aspiring artists from all backgrounds to access drama schools and pursue their dreams.
As a new mother, Smith finds inspiration in her son, who has already shown a keen interest in the performing arts. While she jokes about his potential future as an actor, Smith admits that her son’s presence brings joy and motivation to her career.
Opening Night runs at the Gielgud Theatre in London until 27 July, offering audiences a powerful and poignant exploration of mental health and resilience in the face of adversity. As Smith continues to captivate audiences with her compelling performance, she reminds us of the transformative power of storytelling on the stage.