Last week we were invited to join the Wyvern Theatre staff out at Stanton House Hotel for the official pantomime launch with the headline cast members for Sleeping Beauty.
On a gloriously sunny morning we had the opportunity to quiz Michelle Collins (Evil Carabosse), Chris Jarvis (Loveable Happy Harry) and Matt Rixon (Panto Dame) to find out what they love about panto and what is on their wish list to Father Christmas!
Sleeping Beauty starts on December 7th and runs through to January 5th. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Wyvern Theatre box office on 01793 524481.
What was your first ever panto, either performing or watching?
Michelle: Babes in the Wood with Tommy Steele at The Palladium – I loved it. Panto was always a big event going on the bus into the West End and seeing the Christmas lights.
Chris: I started performing in panto when I was 7 but the first I went to watch would have been Aladdin. My parents were really into panto and it is what got me into theatre.
Matt: I was on stage from about six months old with my dad (Matthew Kelly) so cannot really remember my first panto.
What do you love about panto?
Michelle: It’s fun and Christmas. Everyone is upbeat and seeing the looks on kids faces is magical. It’s normally the first time a child has been to the theatre.
Chris: Panto is for the whole family, it’s old fashioned but also upto the moment. Panto gives escapism from the nonsense going on in the world.
Matt: It a magical evening (or afternoon), great family time where everybody walks away smiling (hopefully). There is normally magic, lots of jokes and overall a great lot of fun!
What How are you feeling about Sleeping Beauty in Swindon?
Michelle: Its my first time in Swindon and I love Sleeping Beauty, it’s going to be great doing it as no-one seems to do Sleeping Beauty anymore. I have a fun character to play (Carabosse)
Chris: Sleeping Beauty is one of my top five panto’s. It has a story-line you can get great comedy from. The audience know the story and can see whats coming, with some surprises and comedy along the way. This production is going to be a warm friendly feel-good telling of the story.
Matt: I am really excited to be in Swindon, it will be a brilliant show and I think between us and the audience it is going to be a party atmosphere.
Describe Swindon in three words
Michelle: Steam Engines? I have no idea, it’s my first visit.
Chris: Friendly, diverse, cosmopolitan
Matt: Ask me after I have been in Swindon a little while.
After the past few years of success with Adam Woodyatt headlining Swindon Panto is there any added pressure to do well?
Michelle: I’m the first female lead in Swindon for ten years apparently – we are just going to be bigger and better!
What are you asking Father Christmas for this year?
Michelle: I haven’t even thought about it, I can’t think of anything.
Chris: Throat sweets! Actually a Nespresso machine, that was the best present I got five years ago but I think I need a new one.
Matt: Full houses! I want everyone in Swindon to come and see the show and we will have a right good laugh together.
Sleeping Beauty, Wyvern Theatre
Sat 7 December 2019 – Sun 5 January 2020
