Ever wondered who keeps the panto magic moving, the flying objects airborne, and the slosh under control? We sat down with Assistant Production Manager Richard Ducker (aka Ducky) to find out how the panto gets planned, what the backstage chaos looks like, and why staying strictly behind the scenes is just how he likes it.
Tell us a bit about your role in panto?
I’m the Assistant Production Manager. That means reviewing the plans and scripts and figuring out the logistics of how we’ll achieve the magic with effects, scene changes, etc.
How long have you been working on panto?
I first worked on panto in 2006. I started as a follow spot, then crew, then a fly person.
How has it changed over the years?
Every year has brought uniqueness and required different techniques. Whether it’s puppets, water features, people flying, or literal magic. It’s nice to try different stuff and bring in different elements.
Is it a nightmare to plan?
Sometimes. We have hundreds of cues to work out, and this year we have a couple of scene changes that will require us to figure out exactly who’s doing what and when, because so much will be happening. Everyone has to be in the right place at the right time, a bit like a dance.
How long do you get to plan it all?
The creative team start a lot earlier than I do. I got involved around March. But basically, someone is planning something about the panto before the other one is finished!
Can you let us in on any secrets?
I can’t tell you a lot, but there will be lots and lots of flying: a brilliant slosh scene and even a puppet. You will have to come and see it, though.
We love a slosh scene. But what actually goes into getting it right?
It’s usually the most fun bit, and you do have to lean into the chaos of it because you are going to get messy. The hard part is getting it all unmessy again without anyone noticing, and usually in a very short window. It is a lot of mops and towels!
This year’s is going to be disgusting … I think the kids are going to love it.
You have worked on so many pantos. What was your favourite moment?
I think it was for Robin Hood. We built the slosh scene ourselves; it was a crazy bathroom, an excellent routine, and it worked really well.
Have you ever been tempted to step in for an actor?
No. That sounds terrifying. I work backstage; I should never be seen! But I would like to give the flying in this show a go.
Why should people come and see this year’s panto?
It is going to be a really fun take on the story we love. There is lots of flying and an awesome slosh scene, and this year is really going to be magical.
