When local vocalist Oliver Tourle was persuaded by friends and family to begin performing again, he decided to self-produce his own show in 2015. To much success and continued support, this annual event keeps getting bigger. After “Live and Backstage” at the Assembly Hall Theatre in 2016′ and his Debut EP Launch at the historic Salomons Victorian Science Theatre last year, Oliver will next be taking to the stage in his new show, Inspire, at The Angel Centre Tonbridge on October 21st at 7pm.
With the aim to inspire people, young and old, to follow their dream and believe in themselves, the Angel Centre’s Medway Hall will be transformed into a modern live music venue for one night only. With his live band and in his unique style, Oliver will be performing hit songs from past and present, appealing to all age ranges.
Reflecting on his journey and connection with some of the biggest hits in music, be sure to expect fun, laughter, special guests appearances and a few surprises. While he rehearses for his latest self-produced show Oliver answered a few questions…
How did you get started in the world of live entertainment?
As an eager teenager, I had such a strong desire to be involved in the entertainment industry, no matter what it was, I would do anything just to be close to the action! My constant pestering and three Work Experience placements at the same venue led to a job working in technical theatre and later, television. I spent quite a few years backstage in the dark, rather than on stage where I was just too nervous to be.
So what changed?
I had been involved in performing at school and locally, and I was often asked by friends and family why I wasn’t performing anymore and when I was next doing something – I never knew the answer because I never knew how to do it or where to go. But it did make me realise that, because I was so eager to be involved, I hadn’t taken the time to realise the direction I needed to be heading. When I was encouraged by my girlfriend to get back into performing I thought, “How can I be different?” I decided to put myself out there, trust in what people said, bite the bullet and to produce my own one-man show.
I was there, what a success it was!
As I was without any previous experience, it was very bold to self-fund a performance in the hope people would see something they had expected me to be doing! It was all a bit of a blur, but I realised I loved everything about it. However nervous I was that first time I stepped out to see all those faces gazing at me, was also the realisation that this is what I should be doing.
It’s great that your music appeals to such a wide audience range too.
Well, within my large family, I have cousins who have watched the performances from the age of ten to a family member who has just turned 88. The variety of songs I sing, in the style I do, with the funny stories and production values – means that it’s a show suitable for all age ranges. The show has heart, meaning and a message for anyone to take away with them if they wish.
I never thought it would work… that people would come and watch me perform, yet every year its getting bigger and better, I’m growing with confidence and am ready to take things to the next level by following my dream and inspiring others to do the same in the process.
So what can we expect from the Angel Centre show?
On the night, expect a feel-good evening filled with laughter and great music, in a transformed community space, with a buzzing foyer and interactive opportunities throughout the night, making it a memorable evening to inspire people of all ages. This is the performance to take my journey to the next level with regular performances rather than just one a year. I want the opportunity to enjoy what I do as a full time career.
So what is next for you ?
I want to be able to entertain people with music, with stories, with laughter. I have never been more inspired by performers who can get you thinking, take your breath away with a sentiment or who can capture an audience with a song lyric and have the audience in the palm of their hands.
To progress, improve, learn, perform and inspire on a regular basis as well as encouraging others to do the same would be a dream come true.
Tickets for Oliver Tourle: Inspire at the Angel Centre, Tonbridge on Octonber 21st at 7.oopm are available online at www.olivertourle.com/tickets