Julius Caesar Cast Bio | Rosie

Ahead of the run, we’ve been interviewing the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School actors cast to play alongside theatre professionals, Julian Glover and Lynn Farleigh in Julius Caesar.

Here we get to know Rosie, one of the Theatre School’s talented rising stars.

Rosie Gray
Decia

BOVTS: M in Crave (Directors’ Cuts, Wardrobe Theatre); Mrs Gibbs in Our Town, Joyce in Treasure Island, Isabella in The Merchant of Venice, Alithea in The Country Wife, Mary Stuart in Vivat! Vivat Regina!, Pia in Festen, Jill in Equus. Other: Some People Talk About Violence (Camden People’s Theatre & Summerhall); various in Nothing (Lyric Hammersmith & Camden People’s Theatre); Hedda Gabler in Hedda Gabler, Hester in The Deep Blue Sea, Jess in Mammals, Paula in The Positive Hour (all Warwick Arts Centre).

Where are you from and how did you get into acting? 
I grew up in a place called Chalfont. St. Peter in Bucks (about twenty mins on the train from Marylebone in London). I love stories and have always been fascinated by the human mind - the theatre seemed like the perfect place to explore those things.

Who are you playing in Julius Caesar and what challenges have you faced in that role? 
I'm playing Decia (one of the conspirators), Octavia's attendant and a pleb. I find Shakespeare can feel like a bit of a juggling act at the beginning of the process - respecting the verse and poetry while remaining truthful etc. but having guidance from Simon, Julian and Lynn has been invaluable.

What's your favourite thing about training at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School?
Learning from those around me, whether it's teachers, directors or my peers. I write down my favourite bits of advice in a little notebook I carry around. I've also laughed a lot over my two years at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School - my year are a cheeky bunch and I'll miss them a lot.

What's it been like to work with Julian Glover and Lynn Farleigh?
A gift. They're so generous with their extensive knowledge and great fun to have around. They also seem to genuinely care about our progress which is really touching.

How does it feel to be taking the Bristol Old Vic stage in your graduating show?
I feel incredibly lucky and grateful to have the opportunity to perform in this beautiful space. It feels like the perfect stepping stone into the professional world.

This June we reunite with Bristol Old Vic Theatre School to present Shakespeare’s riveting political drama Julius Caesar. For more info and to book tickets, click here.