TRP Stories: Ed Larkin

Last year, Ed Larkin became the first wheelchair user to lead a West End musical in The Little Big Things and this year, he joins the brand new production, The Creakers.

Ed grew up in Bere Alston and got his first taste of the theatre aged seven when he watched Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat here at Theatre Royal Plymouth (TRP). He went on to complete a BA Acting degree from Plymouth Marjon University before making guest appearances in Doctors and Casualty and securing his position on the West End. Speaking about how TRP and growing up in Devon supported his career, Ed said: “Watching shows at TRP that were so colourful and magical had a massive impact on me; it opened up a world that was really exciting and I fell in love with it from there. Living in rural Devon didn’t hold me back, I was surrounded by good theatre, although I never expected to go into musicals.

“I didn’t see anyone like me in the West End. The Little Big Things was life changing and one of the best experiences I’ve had. When I first heard about it, I didn’t know it was a musical, but I auditioned and was asked to sing and was offered the part. I was really honoured. It was a mind-blowing experience and I felt incredibly humbled to have been involved with the show.

“I was aware I was the first wheelchair user to take a lead in the West End, and with that, there was a sense of responsibility. It was an amazing feeling, mixed with a sense of trepidation as I knew others would look up to me.

“The amount of people that came to me with a disability – physical and non-visible – to say how much of an impact the show had on them, made the experience so worthwhile. Hopefully, it opens up important conversations within the industry. There’s a long way to go, but it’s exciting.”

Ed is now starring as William, Mr Grubb and Squelch in The Creakers, which is based on Tom Fletcher’s best-selling children’s book and has its world premiere at TRP this October.

Ed said: “Coming back to TRP for The Creakers is super exciting. Already in my short career, I’ve come full circle and am back performing at my local theatre. It’s a real ‘pinch me’ moment.

“It’s exciting to be a part of the flagship company, exploring the work for the first time and originating our characters.

“TRP is the theatre that made me fall in love with theatre. The fact I now get to perform on the stage is a real honour.”

Watch Ed’s video: