“My first impression of the show was, ‘Wow, this is hot!'”: Jess Qualter on Burlesque at the Savoy Theatre
Now playing at the Savoy Theatre, Todrick Hall’s Burlesque is a bold, brassy and sexy adaptation of the 2010 film musical. Stepping into the role of Spring in her West End debut is talented dancer and performer Jess Qualter. Trained in musical theatre, Qualter is best known for the fantastic choreography she creates as one half of the TikTok sensation Brooke & Jess (alongside friend and creative partner Brooke Blewitt). Qualter told The Upcoming what she loves about Burlesque and what it was like workshopping the show.
Burlesque is based on the 2010 film of the same name – were you familiar with the film when you were cast? What were your first impressions of the show?
I was familiar with the film, I watched it growing up. My little sister always had it on; she was obsessed. My first impression of the show was, “Wow, this is hot!” And I was instantly obsessed with the music.
You described being really excited to be part of the “creative process” in workshops. Can you tell us a little more about this process, and what it was like first putting the show together?
I love being a part of the creative process of anything. I think it’s so cool to see all these ideas come to life, people bouncing off each other, seeing what ideas work and what doesn’t – it’s super exciting. My favourite part about the workshop was getting to witness and be involved in that. It’s been such a journey from the workshop to where we are now.
In Burlesque, you play Spring, who always speaks in unison with her twin Summer (played by Alessia McDermott). Was it hard to learn to sync up perfectly with another performer (or did your experience as one half of iconic TikTok duo Brooke & Jess help make that easy?)
I love playing Spring so much, being one of the twins is so much fun. Alessia and I actually shocked ourselves when we did the first read-through of the script, as we just did it the exact same straight away. It was weirdly easy to be so in sync with each other. I think we’re morphing into the same person at this point. I think being one half of Brooke and Jess definitely helped – I’m used to being in sync!
Do you have a favourite song or moment from the show?
I’m actually obsessed with all the songs in the show, all the music, new and old. My personal favourite moment to perform is either my duet Dirty Martini – it’s so cute and I love our costumes – or I love in Bigger when I get to come down on the runway…it feels like a real pop star moment.
You get to wear some pretty fabulous costumes in Burlesque – do you have a favourite?
My favourite costume is 100% my Dirty Martini costume, the olives are so fun!
You’ve got a huge following online, so you’re used to being in the spotlight, but this is your West End debut. How have you found it?
Making my West End debut was my dream growing up. I worked so, so hard for it my whole life. I feel super proud that I’ve gotten to do this. I know little me wouldn’t be able to believe it.
Do you have a dream West End role you’d like to play?
I’d love for me and Brooke to do something together. We always say for me to play Amber and Brooke to play Penny in Hairspray would be so much fun!
Who are your inspirations as a dancer and performer?
I love to learn from the people around me. Being on Burlesque and surrounded by such talented, creative people has been so inspiring – I’m learning every day. There’s always room to learn and grow, and I find it most helpful to do that from the people closest to me.
If you could sum up Burlesque in three words, what would they be?
Ooooh…Fun, hot and…BIG!
Finally – Spring rocks a pretty fabulous pink hairdo – any plans to make that a regular look for you?
I love having pink hair! I have actually had pink hair in the past, in Barbie summer. Maybe it’s time to bring it back?! Although I do just love being a blonde.
Maggie O Shea
Photo: Betty Zapata
Burlesque is at Savoy Theatre until 6th September 2025. For further information or to book, visit the theatre’s website here.
Watch the trailer for Burlesque at Savoy Theatre here:
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