It’s just over a month before we return to Panto-land, (oh yes it is!) And this week the Junior Ensemble got to practice their Pantomime poses in a photoshoot in Norwich Theatre Royal’s Stage Two.
The Junior Ensemble is made up of 12 children from all around in Norfolk. The 9-11 year olds will be playing ‘Fairies in Training’ in this year’s Sleeping Beauty.
The Junior Ensemble include: Archie Woodward, Benjamin Brown, Cameron Eiko Scott, Cleo Whiteley, Darcey Simms, Harry Clark, Iris Harker-Smith, Kitty Denny, Louis Marcham, Ria Quiliem, Sophia Pyrog and Tiernan Cooper.
There was definitely lots of excitement, as the day began with the rising stars enjoying a Christmas dinner, in the Theatre’s restaurant Prelude. There was lots of laughter as crackers were pulled and jokes were shared.
However, Stage Two was where the magic really came to life as the Fairies got to practice their Pantomime poses and have their photos taken and told us what they are looking forward to this panto season.
Iris, age 11 was in last year’s Jack and the Beanstalk and said, “I’m really looking forward to meeting all the cast and going on the stage”.
This year is Tiernan’s first pantomime at Norwich Theatre. He told us, “my favourite thing about being in Sleeping Beauty is doing it at Christmas time because it is so magical”.
The Christmas spirit really came to life when the children were asked about their Christmas wish this year. Ria is nine years old and is this year’s youngest performer, however it doesn’t show as she said, “I’d really like some skincare for Christmas”.
The Apprentice Fairies, will accompany The Good Fairy (Joe Tracini) but when asked whether he’d like to be a goodie or a baddie in a pantomime, 10 year old Benjamin said, “you can be more cheeky when you’re a baddie!”
Rachel Lloyd, Programming Manager at Norwich Theatre, said: “This year’s Junior Ensemble are incredibly talented and full of excitement! The Apprentice Fairies play such an important part in creating a magical experience for the entire family. And I’m sure they’ll shine on stage!”
This pantomime get ready to see the other side of Sleeping Beauty, the Fairy’s tale. Join us as we learn how the Queen and Fairy embark on a journey to save our Sleeping Beauty, with a prince in tow and despite the efforts of the Evil Fairy.
Beverley Callard will take on the role of the Evil Fairy in this year’s pantomime and Norwich Theatre legend Richard Gauntlett will be returning for his 23rd years as The Queen.
Millie O’Connell will take on the role of Sleeping Beauty, followed by the Prince is Karl Queensborough.
You won’t want to miss this year! Full of pantomime cheer and sparkle, there will be all the songs, jokes, mischief and dancing, plus the chance to boo, hiss and cheer of course!
By Liberty Corrie
