It was a proud moment for Cilycwm residents Bjarte and Machteld Haugen when their son Francis, who had been understudying the lead in the new West End production of “Singin’ in the Rain”, was told during the interval that the leading man Adam Cooper had injured himself during the first half and that he would be taking over during the second half. 
The story made centre spread in the Western Mail on Saturday – (excerpts in italics)
“It was quite an experience” recalls the 24 year old “But that’s what makes live theatre so exciting”
“It felt like the audience were really behind me and the cast were also very supportive”
“As an understudy it is hard as you have to step into a role created for someone else.”, says Haugen, who had ballet lessons as a boy and went on to train at Gorseinon College and at Ats Education in London.
He also dances and sings in the chorus line which involves getting drenched by water raining down on the stage.
The young actor made his West End debut in the musical “Legally Blond” and has also appeared in “42nd Street” He says he would like to appera in more contemporary shows in the future byut, for now, he’s enjoying every moment in Singin in the Rain, which features songs like “Make ’em Laugh” “Good Morning” “Moses Supposes” and the title track.
The title track, incidentally, was also used to chilling effect in the film “Clockwork Orange”.
