“Pure Joy, Big Heart, and a Lot of Pop”: Rosie Singha on Here & Now, the New Steps Musical

Edited for clarity and length

For a generation of pop fans, the music of Steps is woven into school discos, long car journeys, and the kind of unapologetically joyful dance routines that defined late‑90s and early‑2000s British pop. Now, that soundtrack has found a new home on stage in Here & Now, a brand‑new musical built around the band’s biggest hits — and it’s heading to the Wales Millennium Centre.

With Ian “H” Watkins proudly flying the Welsh flag as one‑fifth of Steps, bringing the show to Cardiff feels like a homecoming of sorts. And for cast member Rosie Singha, who plays Nita, it’s a chance to return to a city she already loves performing in.

We caught up with Rosie to talk about the show’s infectious energy, the emotional surprises hidden among the glitter, and what it feels like to bring a Steps‑filled love story to life.

Interview with Rosie Singha

(Edited for clarity)

You’re bringing Here & Now to Wales — the homeland of H from Steps. How does that feel?

It’s such an honour. I love Cardiff. I actually finished my last show there, and the audiences were so much fun. I’m buzzing to be back.

Have the cast been warned that H might sneak into the audience? Does that add pressure?

Honestly, Steps have been incredible. They’ve been much more involved than I expected — in a lovely way. Claire popped in the other day! So yes, the pressure is definitely on when they’re around, but they’re amazing.

What first drew you to the role? The story, the nostalgia, the music?

I knew nothing about the show when I first auditioned. But the idea of playing a part that’s just so full of joy was exciting. And the music — obviously — is incredible. As a woman of colour, getting to play a love‑story role written specifically with that in mind felt really special. That was a huge pull for me.

Tell us about your character. Who is Nita and where does she fit into the story?

I play Nita, who works in a shop with her three best friends — Caz, Belle, and Robbie. They’re this tight little group. Caz is turning 50, and as part of their “summer of love” plan, they all vow to go after their love interests and shake up their lives. Of course, there are twists and turns along the way… but you’ll have to come and see those.

Steps fans are famously passionate. Has there been a standout audience reaction so far?

If you’re a Steps fan, you will not be disappointed. The show is packed with their biggest hits. There’s a huge number in Act Two — Gem’s number — that is iconic. Absolutely worth the wait.

The show blends comedy, heart, and iconic pop. How would you describe its energy to someone who hasn’t seen it?

It’s high‑energy and so much fun — a proper night out with your pals or your family. But there’s real heart too. As Act Two unfolds, you learn more about the characters and their lives, and it hits you emotionally. We’ve had people come out saying, “I didn’t expect to cry at the Steps musical!” Sean Kitchener, our writer, has done a beautiful job.

Steps songs mean a lot to people. Is there one that hits differently when you perform it?

5, 6, 7, 8 was the school‑disco classic when I was little, so learning that number was a pinch‑me moment. But the orchestrations in this show are stunning — some of the big anthems have been turned into ballads or duets. Matt Spencer‑Smith has done an incredible job.

Welsh audiences are known for being loud, loyal, and emotional. What are you expecting from Cardiff?

I think they’ll lap it up. Cardiff audiences are so warm and generous — that’s what I remember most. This show has so much heart, so I really hope they enjoy it.

Do you have any pre‑show rituals?

We have little cast huddles sometimes, depending on who’s on. Personally, I need to slow down before the show because it’s so fast‑paced. I made myself a playlist at the start of rehearsals — songs I think Nita would listen to — and I use that to get into her vibe. Plus all my vocal remedies and warm‑ups.

If you could tell your younger self — the one who first heard Steps on the radio — that you’d be starring in a musical built around their songs, what would you say?

She would’ve screamed and fallen on the floor! To be in a show that celebrates such an iconic band is unbelievable. I feel very lucky. The cast is insanely talented — I remember sitting in rehearsals just in awe. It’s a really special company and a really cool show.

Listen to the Unedited Conversation Below