David Cumming
David Cumming, co-writer and star of Operation Mincemeat, joins us On The Couch this week following the shows triumphant Opening Night on Thursday. Cumming, who plays Charles Cholmondeley and others, and is also part of the writing troupe SpitLip (also comprising of Natasha Hodgson, Zoe Roberts and Felix Hagan), can’t believe this is real life. Winning the Olivier for Best New Musical in 2024 was something this previously penniless actor (his words not ours!) could only dream of.
Read our full interview with David below, where he talks about people tripping on his foam sword (not a euphemism) and why he’s learning Greek.
What do you consider to be your best asset?
My reliability. If I make you a promise, you can be damn sure I’ll keep it (he said, threateningly).
What was your proudest moment?
Winning the Olivier Award for Best New Musical (Operation Mincemeat) with my best pals by my side. Still can’t really believe that happened!
What is your favorite drink?
Coca Cola – for my sins.
What is your favorite food?
I want to say something fancy like Duck a L’Orange but in reality it is a double fried egg sandwich. I usually have one after a show. It has become a bit of A Thing.
What is your favorite condiment?
I’m a simple lad from from the North of England so obviously ketchup. Has to be Heinz though.
What is your current obsession?
Duolingo – I’m learning Greek from scratch so that one fine day I can bitch about my (lovely adorable amazing) partner to his mother in her own language.
If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
I recently gave up alcohol for the first time ever and was very annoyed at how much better I felt. Like what do you mean I can have boundless energy and good-skin on the daily?! A disgrace. So probably that. But NYC cocktails are a tempting mistress!
What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
An EGOT. And I’m only four awards away from achieving it so things are looking good!
What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
Reusable bags. I keep forgetting them and then have to buy more. It is so wasteful and I hate that I do it.
What is the one activity you waste too much time on?
Beating myself up for not working hard enough when in fact I actually work very hard. Stupid brain.
What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
The rise of the far-right
What’s the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
To treat everyone with the respect and warmth with which you would wish to be treated.
What’s the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
My workaholic tendencies
What in the world most thrills you?
Those moments in live performance when everything just clicks and you can feel the weight of all the people who have selflessly grafted to craft a moment that makes their fellow humans feel truly alive. I find our species’ desire to make art unspeakably beautiful.
What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
The denial of scientific fact and the idea that actual knowledge of a topic isn’t needed to have a valid opinion on it.
What was the most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?
Back in the day, when I was a penniless actor, I used to act in history workshops in schools. This particular day was St George’s Day (Patron Saint of England) so I had to ride the London tube during rush hour dressed as an 11th Century Crusader. I was sweating through my chainmail and people kept getting caught on my foam sword. Felt like a right tit.
What is your favorite place in the world?
On a dancefloor, in the arms of my love, surrounded by my friends.
What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
A unwavering commitment to honest, open communication. And a good bum.
Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
Neither. I’m more of a goat man. They’re just cool lil’ guys!
What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
For Space Raiders Pickled Onion crisps (or chips to you Yanks) to reinstate their original recipe from the 90s. Oh man, that would be heaven!
What is your personal motto?
Joy is an act of resistance and smiles beget smiles.