Fresh from starring as Edmund Pevensie in the RSC's production of "The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe", Jean-Marc Perret (who starred as the younger Prince Caspian in the BBC's "Prince Caspian" and "The Silver Chair") takes time out to answer questions about his favourite Narnia book, stories from the filming of the BBC productions and his acting career.
Which of the seven books have you read?
All
Which is your favourite Narnia book and why?
“The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe”. Beautifully crafted and gripping from start to finish.
Which is your favourite Narnia character?
Uncle Andrew in “The Magician’s Nephew”. He was nutty.
How did you get the part of Prince Caspian in the BBC’s production of Prince Caspian?
The audition was in 3 stages. 600 people auditioned for the role of Prince Caspian.
How old were you when you acted in the BBC’s production of Prince Caspian?
14 years old.
Do you have any abiding memories of filming the BBC’s production of Prince Caspian?
Whilst filming in Somerset, I visited Cheddar Gorge with the actor, Henry Woolf who played Dr. Cornelius and managed to get lost in thick brambles. A search party was nearly sent but we just made it back to the film set on time!
A hedgehog that smoked on set during breaks.
What have you been doing since appearing in the BBC’s production of Prince Caspian?
See CV enclosed
Can you explain why and how you got into Bristol Old Vic Theatre School?
In 1996, I decided to audition for B.O.V.T.S. and train as a classical actor. 2,000 people apply for only 30 places each year. You have to pass various audition stages and present a classical monologue/modern piece/sing.
How long did you study at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School?
2 years.
Looking at your credits, you’ve done more theatre work than anything else. What are the reasons behind this?
Theatre work is very rewarding and extremely challenging to an actor. Television requires a different technique but at times can be limiting and you can be pigeonholed.
Do you prefer theatre, television or film, and why?
I don’t have a preference!
How did you get the part of Edmund Pevensie in the RSC’s production of The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe?
A 3-tier audition process. I dread to think how many people applied to be in the show!
Who do you prefer playing, Edmund Pevensie or Prince Caspian and why?
Both characters draw on different qualities and I was happy to have played both characters.
What does the future hold in store for you?
Currently auditioning and enjoying a little rest!
Do you have any involvement in the forthcoming movie of The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe?
No – They will cast absolutely to type and unfortunately/fortunately I am too old to play children on television.
Our thanks go out to Jean-Marc Perret for taking the time to be interviewed and The Chronicles Of Narnia Website wish him the best for his future career.