Tonight’s The Night, the smash-hit musical comedy inspired by the songs of Rod Steward, is coming to Wimbledon for one week this spring. Starring Sugababes singer and actress Jade Ewen, the musical tells the love story of a shy young man and the girl of his dreams, played out on the mean streets of Detroit. Nicola Nadanakumaran caught up with Jade Ewen in between rehearsals.

Nicola Nadanakumaran: How did you land the job?

Jade Ewen: I heard about the audition through my agent and have been wanting to get back into theatre for a while now, so decided to attend the casting. I met with our director and choreographer and had a phone call the next day with the offer for the show.

NN: Why did you decide you wanted to be a part of the show?

JE: I wanted to get back onstage and perform to live audiences as that is what I love most. When offered Tonight’s the Night, they added an extra song, First Cut is the Deepest, for me to sing which is one of Dee Dee’s big solos. It is also a really nice part to play.

NN: What role does Dee Dee have in the play?

JE: Dee Dee is feisty, sassy and opinionated. She is Mary’s best friend and does not like Stu. She falls in love with Rocky and her two solos are about her heartache, it is the only time we see her vulnerable.

NN: You moved from pop music to focusing on musical theatre. What was the transition like for you?

JE: I haven’t really felt like there has been a major transition for me. I originally trained in theatre and was first onstage in the West End when I was 11 as Young Nala in The Lion King. Going back to theatre feels really natural.

NN: Have you had a chance to meet Rod Stewart?

JE: I am yet to meet Rod Stewart. Hopefully he will make it to a show, and we can meet him then.

NN: What is it been like working with Ben Elton?

JE: I have only met Ben on a couple of occasions. We mostly work with the director. It has been nice to feel as though we have inspired Ben to re-work and re-write parts of the show, altering it from the original. I have had some lovely moments added thanks to Ben, so it feels as though we are working very closely together even when we’re not physically in the same room.

NN: What advice do you have for young people who wish to pursue a career in either the theatre or music industry?

JE: My advice? Master your craft to the best of your ability. Be a triple threat. Use rejection as a tool for improvement and growth. Also, ask for feedback and keep going. Be a superstar from the moment you walk into the audition room.

New Wimbledon Theatre, the Broadway, Wimbledon; March 17 to 22, 7.30pm, Thursday and Saturday matinees, 2.30pm; £10-£37.50; atgtickets.com