Panto Magic: Chaos, Costumes & Community Spirit

It’s Show Week, Daaarlings! Oh Yes, It Is!

Well, well, well… look who finally remembered she has a blog! I know, I know—I haven’t posted in a few weeks, but let’s be honest: ADHD and consistency are about as compatible as a toddler and a chocolate fountain. And I have a good excuse—I’ve been very busy with panto!

And not just any panto—Wyke Community Pantomime, my happy place, my second home, and the most magical slice of theatre I’ve ever been a part of.

The Beauty of Wyke Panto

For those who don’t know, Wyke Panto isn’t just about putting on a show; it’s about making theatre accessible to everyone. It’s not some exclusive club where only the ‘best’ get cast—here, kids and adults audition on equal footing, and what you end up with is this incredible mix of talent, heart, and sheer joy. It’s community theatre at its best, and I’ve had the privilege of being part of it since the very beginning. Now, four shows in, I can honestly say it just keeps getting better.

Show Week Shenanigans

We have four sell-out shows this week! Four! That’s a full house of people ready to boo, cheer, and laugh. And this year, I get to play Buttons in Cinderella—a role that is chuffing perfect for me because, let’s face it, I thrive on audience interaction and a good bit of cheeky banter.

But what makes this show extra special is the insanely talented young people taking on the principal roles. Some of them I’ve known since our first show together, and watching their confidence explode over the years is honestly one of the best feelings in the world. Special mention to our Cinderella—this girl was so shy in her first show, I literally danced with her and a mop because she was too nervous. And now? Now she’s Cinderella herself! If that’s not a glow-up, I don’t know what is.

Show Week Rituals: Keeping Busy, Hugs & My One Diva Demand

Now, you might think that as an actor, I’d have some deep, mystical pre-show preparation process… but honestly? My best method for dealing with pre-show jitters is keeping busy and helping others. If I get to the venue too early with nothing to do but focus on myself, I get restless. So instead, you’ll find me chatting with everyone, helping with hair and makeup, and calming last-minute nerves.

One thing I have to do, though, is hug everyone and wish them good luck before we go on. It’s my own little tradition—alongside the official Wyke Panto pre-show ritual, of course!

And, okay, I do have one slight diva moment… I need the same dressing area spot every year. Not because I’m superstitious (well, maybe a little), but because I think my brain would short-circuit if I had to set up somewhere new. It’s also practical—it’s where I set up my script, mints, water, and other bits that anyone can help themselves to. Those who’ve been in previous years know it’s always there, and honestly? I love that little bit of continuity.

Beyond that? I just focus on everyone else, have fun, and see what happens on stage—because panto is all about the unexpected, and that’s what makes it magic!

More Than Just a Show

It’s not just about performing (though I do love that part). This year, I’ve been more involved behind the scenes—helping with costumes, props, and all the little details that bring the magic to life. And let me tell you, the level of teamwork in this panto is unreal. Everyone cares. Everyone gets stuck in. People give up their time and skills just to create something amazing for the community.

And speaking of community—Wyke Panto isn’t just for those who can afford a ticket. Free tickets are given to food banks and children in the area, because theatre should be for everyone, not just those who can pay. It’s a not-for-profit production that keeps growing from strength to strength, and that’s something worth celebrating.

Friends Who Become Family

But the best part of Wyke Panto? The people. I have made friends for life—friends I now call family. The laughs, the memories, the moments of sheer chaos backstage when something inevitably goes wrong (but the audience never knows!)—it all makes this such a special experience.

I have to give a huge shoutout to Andy and Amy, who work tirelessly to make this show happen. From writing an amazing script to directing a crazy cast and all the bits behind the scenes, the show simply would not exist without them and their dedication! I am so proud to call them my friends. And our snazzy props and costume team? Absolute heroes.

Keeping the Energy High: Fun, Photos & Backstage Chaos

One of the best parts of show week is the pure energy backstage—and I fully embrace it! There’s nothing quite like the mix of excitement, nerves, and absolute chaos that happens behind the curtain. I make sure to keep the vibes fun, whether it’s silly warm-ups, hyping people up, or taking plenty of photos to capture the madness (and the questionable wig choices).

Honestly, some of the best memories are made backstage. The moments before we step into the spotlight, the last-minute costume fixes, the inside jokes that will live on for years—it’s all part of the panto magic. And I wouldn’t change a single second of it!

Panto Chaos & The Art of “Just Go With It”

Now, don’t get me wrong. Panto isn’t all rainbows, ponies and perfectly timed entrances. Look, let’s be real—panto is not a well-oiled machine. It’s more like a slightly wonky, glitter-covered rollercoaster that nobody really knows how to stop, but somehow, it all works out in the end. Of course there are stresses. Of course there are last-minute script edits, costume panics, and at least one person who forgets an entrance (probably me). But that’s the beauty of it—when things go wrong, we come together, we make it work, and we turn it into comedy gold.

This is not Shakespeare. It’s panto. A magical land where forgotten lines become inside jokes, unexpected mishaps get the biggest laughs, and everyone is just trying their best to put on a cracking show. It’s run by volunteers with big hearts, big ideas, and occasionally questionable time management. There are ups, downs, and moments of pure chaos. But at the end of the day, we pull together, support each other, and somehow create something incredible.

So if the set wobbles? If someone calls a character by the wrong name? If a prop goes flying? Just go with it. The audience will love it, and honestly—so will we. Because panto isn’t about being perfect. It’s about making magic out of madness. And if you can’t embrace that, well… I don’t know what to tell you!

The Magic of Panto

There is something truly special about performing for an audience, especially when you realise that for some kids, this is their first-ever pantomime. They don’t know they can boo the villain or shout, “He’s behind you!”—but by the end of the show? They are fully involved, yelling at the top of their lungs and having the time of their lives. And that’s the magic of panto.

Panto is my not-so-guilty pleasure. It’s where I feel happiest, where I get to see young people grow in confidence, where I get to bring a little sparkle to the community. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

So, if you’re coming to see Cinderella this week—get ready to laugh, cheer, and shout your hearts out. And if you see Buttons causing a bit of mischief… well, that’s just me living my best panto life!

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some last-minute rehearsing to do (and probably some sequins to glue).

TPFN Kyra x P.S. A very special shoutout to Matt, our amazing stage manager and tech wizard, who somehow keeps this chaotic bunch in check while making sure the show looks and sounds incredible. Honestly, he deserves a medal (or at least a lifetime supply of snacks) for putting up with me. He’s my cheeky partner in crime, always ready with a well-timed dad joke, a knowing eye-roll, or—most importantly—a snack when I need it most. Matt, you absolute legend, this one’s for you

PPS; the sequel Right, before I get actually murdered in my sleep—I need to give a massive shoutout to my stage wife, our costume queen Ellie! Her living room has basically been a panto cave for months, filled with props, costumes, and a level of organised chaos that only true theatre legends can handle. Ellie, you are an absolute star!