Rocking its way to the New Wimbledon Theatre, the smash hit musical 20th Century Boy is set to open on the same day as the Wimbledon tennis championships. 

Inspired by the life of rock legend Marc Bolan, this new musical explodes onto stage nearly 40 years after the star’s tragic death.

Featuring some of the greatest pop songs ever written, 20th Century Boy tells the story of Marc Bolan and his band T Rex, exposing some of the myths and taking the audience on a tearful yet joyful journey through Marc’s fascinating life.

Donning a feather boa and a les paul, Warren Sollars will be playing Marc Bolan in this rollercoaster ride of the glam rock legend's life. Louisa Clarence-Smith caught up with him between rehearsals.

Louisa Clarence-Smith: What made you want to get involved with 20th Century Boy?

Warren Sollars: I have always been a fan of T-Rex. My parents are very eclectic people, so I listened to it a lot growing up. When I heard there was a musical about Marc Bolan’s life, I thought I had to have myself some of that!

LCS: Why do you think you were chosen to play Marc Bolan?

WS: I really don’t know to be honest. A lot of people say I have his jaw line. I was passionate about the music and ultimately, his story the more I auditioned for it. This is a very different show to any I’ve done before and I’m so thankful and thrilled to be a part of this amazing show.

LCS: Do you have any affinity with the punk legend?

WS: Being a fan of his music was one thing, but now being a fan of the man himself is totally different. It’s been really amazing learning, studying and absorbing myself in it all.

LCS: What's it like personifying such a massive music star?

WS: It’s not often you get asked to play a role like this. I feel tremendously lucky and thankful for the opportunity to play such an incredible man. To perform these songs every night on stage is a great feeling.

LCS: How did you get into the performing arts?

WS: I’ve always been enjoyed and been around music from a young age. I was in a few bands growing up, but felt like I wanted more, and wanted to act as well. Performing arts seemed like the right avenue to go down.

LCS: What can audience expect from the show?

WS: A rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of a fine rock legend. It’s an exciting, energetic, and past paced piece with great comedy, real drama and a hell of a lot of T-Rex tunes.

20th Century Boy; New Wimbledon Theatre, The Broadway; Monday, June 23 to Saturday, June 28; 7.30pm; mats, Thursday and Saturday; 2.30pm; atgtickets.com