Real Name: Pip
Awards: Winner, Best actor, Golden Aisles Awards
Resume: Pip has played Jeremy Brett as:
  • Nicholas in War and Peace
  • George, the 12th Duke of Bristol, in On Approval
  • Dracula in Dracula
  • D'Artagnan in The Three Musketeers
  • Brian in Deceptions
  • Freddie in My Fair Lady
  • Sherlock in The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
  • Edmund of Kent in Edward II
    (viewed only locally and in Barbie Bazaar magazine,
    August 2002 issue)
  • In the mid 90s our favorite thespian, Pip, took on the demanding task of portraying Jeremy Brett in the Brettish Aisles. In his short career he's taken on such diverse roles as Freddie Eynsford Hill, Dracula, D'Artagnan, Edmund of Kent and Sherlock Holmes. Recently he graciously invited us into his home and we had the chance learn more about him, and how he prepares for his roles.


    Pip takes time from studying a script to invite us into his home.

    BA: How did you get the role of Jeremy Brett?

    Pip: I understand there is a resemblance between us. I can't see it, however, I'm very pleased. Jeremy had the most wonderful roles and it's quite fun to bring them to the Aisles.

    BA: Why Jeremy Brett in particular?

    Pip: For two reasons: first the Brettish Aisles was fortunate to get Audrey Hepburn and was looking for her co-star; and secondly, the Aisles wanted to get into mystery, adventure and romance, specialties of Mr. Brett.


    At home between roles, our favorite actor entertains a few friends.

    BA: What was it like working with Audrey Hepburn?

    Pip: Spectacular! She's a gracious, giving and talented artist.

    BA: How do you get into "character"?

    Pip: The costume usually does the trick - and a command of body language is vital.

    BA: What has been your favorite role?

    Pip: I'm quite fond of all the comedies. The ones where one need not swallow his secret smile.


    In a limited production, highlighted in "Barbie Bazaar,"
    Pip took on the demanding role of the tragic Edmund of Kent.

    BA: And your least favorite?

    Pip: Edmund of Kent; he didn't have a lot to smile about.

    BA: How's that?

    Pip: He was beheaded. "Becoming" such a tragic, and actual historical figure was a true acting challenge.

    BA: How do you prepare for a role?

    Pip: I do a lot of research - get to "know" him, to absorb his inner being.


    Pip thoroughly researches all of his roles to find the essence of the character.

    BA: We understand you almost didn't get the role of Sherlock Holmes. Tell us about that?

    Pip: I film wet - a bit younger than most fans of Conan Doyle's think of as the great detective. And Sherlock is usually quite dour - not my usual expression.

    BA: Your wife is a television producer. Did she have any influence in you getting the role?

    Pip: No. Though our careers have crossed paths several times. She lives in the States you know.


    Pip's wife, from across the pond, visits occasionally.
    This very happy long distance relationship has proven well-suited for each.

    BA: Didn't you spend several years pursuing your career in the States?

    Pip: Yes, they pay much more in US ... and I was a bit of a failure in the states.

    BA: Tell us about recently winning a Golden Aisle award?

    Pip: Of course I'm thrilled - but all who are nominated are equally deserving - they're all winners.


    The conversation is rather one-sided! Decor
    includes mementos from her host's Broadway triumphs.

    BA: We appreciate you inviting us into your home. Tell us where you got your furnishings?

    Pip: All of the furniture is original and come from the workshop of Quail Hollow. The decor is a mixture of my travels, plus a few mementos from old productions, and personal memories.


    The stained glass window of St. George and the Dragon is one of Pip's most prized possessions.

    BA: Finally, what's in your future?

    Pip: We have one nearly ready to put up - a Sherlock Holmes. And after that we've filmed scenes from As You Like It that are in the editing stage.

    BA: Thank you very much for giving us your time and this tour of your favorite room.

    Pip: It's been my pleasure.


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