In this episode, I’m joined by one of my favourite Australian actors, Natalie Abbott, who gives an inspiring performance in The Deb. I think everyone will find something they can relate to with her character Tayla considering the depth and complexities of the character. Also, anyone who’s a fan of musicals in general are going to adore this film. There’s so much to love about The Deb, and Natalie’s performance here really brings the film to life. The Deb is a larger-than-life musical comedy directed by Rebel Wilson. The film follows Natalie Abbott’s Taylah, a high school outcast in a rural town who sees the local debutante ball as her chance to shine. When her cynical, inner-city cousin Maeve (played by Charlotte MacInnes) is sent to live with her, the two clash but eventually unite, searching for self-acceptance, popularity, and a date to the ball Natalie is a performer who made her professional debut playing Muriel Heslop in Muriel’s Wedding The Musical in 2019. The role saw Natalie nominated for a Helpmann Award and a Green Room Award. In 2020, Natalie made her television debut staring in the ABC series Aftertaste, playing opposite Erik Thomson and Rachel Griffiths, reprising her role in 2021 for season 2. Stick around at the end of this interview to find out about the future of Aftertaste if you’re keen. Natalie can be seen most recently in the ABC’ hit series, Austin S2. This is a much shorter episode than usual. As regular listeners know, I like to go much deeper with my Podcast interviews, but this one was recorded as part of a press junket for the film, and time is always limited with these things. Anyway... enjoy.