13 Going On 30

Manchester Opera House

Interview with Dominic Anderson, who plays grown-up Jenna's boyfriend, 'Alex'

All production shots included in this post were taken by Pamela Raith.

Well, aren't Manchester Opera House super lucky? They have the vibrant '13 Going on 30' musical playing, it's now open and in full swing! Have you been or are you planning to go? If you don't know the story, basically, our 13-year-old dreamer Jenna wants nothing more than to be in with the popular 'six chicks'. Matt, her best friend, helps her throw a birthday party to celebrate her birthday, and things don't go the way she plans. She wishes to be 30, flirty and thriving... careful what you wish for because you just might get it. Imagine being your 13-year-old self in your 30-year-old body. This is what the plot is all about. It's wild, fun and heart-warming. The early 2000s film stole the hearts of many. Now, fast forward to 2025, and it's now a musical. How could it get any more vibrant or colourful?

If the story isn't what attracts you, then the star-studded cast will for sure convince you. Jenna is played by the wickedly talented Lucie Jones, Matt is played by the lovable David Hunter and Jenna's boyfriend is played by the charming Dominic Anderson. It doesn't stop there! Check it out for yourself, it's filled with some incredible musical theatre stars and new faces, too. If you want to delve into the beautiful world of musical theatre and start here, then you're in safe and experienced hands.

'Tab in The City' were lucky enough to have some of the talented Dominic Anderson's time to talk about all things' '13 Going on 30', so let's dive into it!

Q: Tell us a bit about your character?

A: My character is called 'Alex' and he is an ice hockey superstar from Canada. He's a lot of fun; he's very into himself. He completely misses everything around him. I think this makes him lovable and fun to watch.

Q: How does the show differ from the film?

A: The first thing is the songs! The catchy tunes. It adds another layer to the story, perhaps some oral depth. It's beautiful. Everyone in the cast is different to the actors in the movies, so it makes it slightly more unique and individual in its own way.

Q: What is your favourite moment in the show?

A: It's my moment when I sing 'Hot'! I love it!

Q: How did you prepare yourself for the role?

A: To be honest, a lot of going to the gym! Aside from that, we had 4 weeks of heavy rehearsals and all the things you do to get ready for the show. I was very structured with my days, that's for sure.

Q: Tell us a bit about yourself, what you were doing before and your training?

A: I've done a number of things before this show. Quite a few shows in London and film/TV bits as well. I trained at ArtsEd for three years, which I loved; it was a bit like military boot camp for musical theatre performers. Just a lot of dancing, singing and acting.

Q: What was the experience of press night for the show like?

A: Press night was very fun and wild! There was a lot going on. There was even a 'Thriller' flash mob!

Q: Have you got a favourite song in the show?

A: I really love 'Trust'. Apart from my song of course, 'Hot'. 'Trust' slaps! David sings the song so well.

Q: Tell us a bit about the choreography in the show?

A: Jen's choreography is really fun to dance; it's a slight departure from what I am used to, but it makes me feel cool when I get it right.

Q: Is the doll's house moment still a part of the show?

A: I don't want to give away any spoilers... but it is as a little easter egg!

Q: What's your favourite moment in the film?

A: Thriller is fun! But I love the scene where she goes into Matt's apartment and acts as if they've just fallen out an hour ago; it's such a good scene.

Q: Describe the show in one sentence?

A: A vibrant journey of accepting where you are.

This show is one to add to your watch list for sure! There's nothing better than a feel-good bit of theatre based on one of your favourite childhood films. It'll be interesting to see what's next for the show. What are you waiting for? Get yourself to the Manchester Opera House to see this show! It's only on till October 12, so get your tickets!

CLICK HERE to book your tickets now.