Local artist profile: Lloyd Needs

THIS week we chat with local performer Lloyd Needs, who’s playing the role of Ned Schneebly in Bendigo Theatre Company’s upcoming production of School of Rock the Musical (18 to 21 September).

What initially motivated you to take up performing?

Year 10-12 drama. (It) was an amazing experience, all the credit goes to my teacher at the time Trina Wilson who is now my colleague.

She taught me so much and allowed me to realise how much I love being on stage performing.

How would you describe your performance style?

I’m a very energetic and enthusiastic performer, giving 110% effort every time in rehearsal and show night, trying to improve on something each time.

I definitely prefer being in pantomime roles as it suits my performance style, but I also love comedic roles in musicals or any type of ensemble.

Which other performers inspire you?

The performers who’ve inspired me the most have been the ones I’ve been lucky enough to share the stage with, actors like Luke Oliver and Jakoby Appleby.

The performances I’ve been a part of with them have stuck with me to this day and I try to include aspects of their amazing talents (in) my repertoire.

Zoe Czempinski is another incredible actress, she sings amazingly and has top class level acting.

What are some highlights you have from your career so far?

My first ever stage performance Treasure Island will always be a highlight,I met some amazing people with such a terrific cast and crew.

My role as a crapshooter (in) Guys and Dolls (which involved) a variety of dancing, lifting and jumping over people was so much fun!

The Pantomime Robin Hood is (also) incredibly special to me.

Not only was it my first lead role in a show, but also it’s where I met my girlfriend for the first time who did an amazing job playing the role of Robin Hood’ and (we’ve) been together ever since.

How can people check out your work online?

As I’m a teacher, all of my socials are private, but basically all of my work has been with the Bendigo Theatre Company.

Please continue to watch them on all socials and you’ll find me doing most of my best work there.

Do you have any performances coming up?

My next performance coming up is School of Rock where I’m playing the role of Ned Schneebly.

The show is really exciting and full of such talented people in the cast, it’s a must see musical, it’s going to be sensational!

What would you say to young aspiring performers thinking of pursuing the creative life?

Go for it! It’s never too late to enjoy the stage, I took it up 10 years after I graduated and have never looked back.

It’s such a fulfilling feeling and a comforting escape from reality, playing different roles and being a part of such an incredible community.

I’ve met so many amazing people throughout my theatre experiences and (I’m) so grateful for each opportunity I’ve been given thus far.

The production teams I’ve worked with make you feel so welcomed at every rehearsal.

I love teaching, I love playing sport and have (made) so many close friends from this, but the enjoyment I get every time I’m on stage, there’s truly no other feeling like it.

If you’re just beginning, don’t be shy, give it your best shot and be yourself, that is what’s so brilliant about theatre, everyone is so supportive of you.