The Kit Kat Club in London feels transformed. It’s not just the glittering set or the intoxicating atmosphere; it’s Matt Willis. The musician, known for his energy with Busted, has undergone a startling metamorphosis, embodying the enigmatic Emcee in a production ofCabaretthat’s captivating audiences.
Meeting Willis backstage, the shift is immediately apparent. He’s traded electric guitars for black leather, pop-punk swagger for a mesmerizing, androgynous presence. He admits the role was initially daunting. “It was intimidating. It was scary,” he confesses, revealing his legs were “jelly” during early performances.
But theatre isn’t a new world for Willis. A graduate of the Sylvia Young Theatre School, he’s previously graced the West End in productions likeFlashdanceandWaitress. “I trained to be in theatre, that’s what I always wanted to do,” he explains. “I’m lucky to be able to do both” – balancing the energy of a band with the discipline of the stage.
He approached the role with a fierce determination to prove himself, inspired by previous Emcees like Eddie Redmayne. “I audition for everything. I constantly have to prove myself,” Willis states, emphasizing the competitive nature of the acting world. He views each audition as a chance to truly *act*, to inhabit a character fully.
ForCabaret, Willis didn’t want to simply play the Emcee; he wanted to *become* him. “I wanted no one to recognise me,” he says, describing a complete transformation. He developed a pre-performance ritual, immersing himself in the character’s world and leaving it behind when he walked home.
The physical transformation is striking – elaborate costumes and a full face of makeup each night. But beyond the surface, Willis sees a deeper resonance in the role, particularly in its challenge to traditional masculinity. “I think this show puts a middle finger up to toxic masculinity,” he asserts.
He’s particularly moved by the impact the show has on his son. “My son has come to watch this, and I think that’s really important,” he shares. He seesCabaretas a celebration of diversity and acceptance, a message he wants to impart to the next generation.
Despite his dedication to the stage, Willis cherishes his family life with wife Emma Willis and their three children. He speaks with warmth about their simple evenings together – watching television, drinking tea, and simply being present with one another. “They just wanna be with me, and that’s the most amazing thing,” he says.
This emphasis on connection stems from the early days of his relationship with Emma. He recalls how her parents prioritized quiet moments of togetherness, a contrast to his own upbringing. It’s a tradition he’s embraced, creating a strong foundation for his own family.
The couple’s partnership extends to their professional lives as well, frequently collaborating on projects like Netflix’sLove Is Blind: UK. “She’s the person I wanna do life with all the time,” Willis says, his affection for Emma palpable. “We’re crazy about each other.”
They prioritize their relationship amidst busy schedules, maintaining constant communication and a shared commitment to being present. “We talk to her 10 times a day,” he reveals. “She doesn’t leave me alone, which is good because I wouldn’t wanna be left alone.”
Matt Willis’s performance as the Emcee is more than just a role; it’s a bold statement, a complete transformation, and a testament to his dedication to his craft. It’s a performance that resonates deeply, both personally and culturally, solidifying his place as a captivating force on the stage.
