Meet the cast of Corn Exchange Newbury's Dick Whittington: Grace Kelly Miller

In the lead-up to this year's #NewburyPanto adventure, Dick Whittington, we chatted with Grace Kelly Miller, playing Detective Fairy Bowbells, in an exclusive interview...

What are you most looking forward to about performing Dick Whittington at the Corn Exchange this festive season?

There is so much to look forward to, but top of my list is getting to have my family and friends in the audience, especially my niece and nephew!

How do you get into character before stepping on stage each night?

After warming up I like to make sure I have plenty of time to do my make-up. I find it very calming, meditative and creative. Once in costume and makeup, I like to play around a bit in character, to help me bring the silly on stage.

If you went on an adventure like Dick Whittington what three items would you bring with you?

I am a big podcast fan - so a device to listen to them on is a must! I am learning to embroider, so my sewing bits would also make it into my rucksack, and I am gonna need some snacks - so a pack of dark chocolate digestives should do it!

If you could have a sidekick like Dick Whittington’s cat, what animal would you choose and why?

Well, if they were going to become person-sized like Cosmo I am going for a flamingo, so we can fly around in style!

If you could live inside the world of any Christmas film, what would it be?

Though I really do love a cheesy Christmas rom-com, A Muppets Christmas Carol is my no.1 Christmas film, so it would have to be that! Though there are definitely some scenes I’d want to live in more than others!

If your life was a musical, what musical would it be?

Hmm… this is a tricky one, but I am going with Calamity Jane. I’m a bit of a mess, but I scrub up alright when needed. Though my secret love is still a secret to me!

Cosmo the cat loves tea, do you have a favourite type of tea?

Ooh! I am a lover of all sorts of teas, but if we’re going English Breakfast - then I am rather partial to a mug of Yorkshire Gold (with oat milk).

What’s the most surprising or challenging costume you’ve ever worn on stage?

I love costume, so this question just makes me think of all the costumes I would like to make one day… however whilst I dream of prancing around dressed as a cupcake or a cloud, I would say some might find it surprising that I make a convincing Father Christmas! The key is a comfy beard!

Do you have any Christmas traditions?

Watching Doctor Who on Christmas day! A tradition I am proud to say my niece has joined me in.

Dick Whittington runs from Friday 29 November to Sunday 5 January 2025. Find out more and book your tickets here.