Meet the cast of Sleeping Beauty: Harry Sweetman

In the lead-up to this year's #NewburyPanto adventure, Sleeping Beauty, we chatted with Harry Sweetman, playing Prince Peter, in an exclusive interview...

How did you feel when you found out you’d be returning to Newburyshire?

As soon as I found out I’d be back in Newbury for Christmas I was so unbelievably excited! I had such an amazing experience last year, so I’m feeling really grateful to be back again.

What are you most looking forward to about being in Newbury over the festive period?

The thing I’m most looking forward to is the Christmas light switch on. It was such an amazing day last year, with live music and festive stalls, so I’m really looking forward to it.

Do you have any memories of the story of Sleeping Beauty?

I do remember as a kid being really, really scared of Maleficent… let’s hope I have a bit more bravery with the baddies this Christmas!

Pantomime is often a child’s first experience of live theatre, but it’s also a big part of Christmas for many adults. Why do you think the tradition remains so special?

I think pantomime plays such a huge part of getting the whole community in the Christmas spirit. It brings people together, and it’s got something for everyone. Like many, panto was my first experience of theatre, and it’s been a tradition in my family ever since!

Do you have any favourite traditions or superstitions before a performance?

I will always, without a doubt, have a mint before going on stage. You’ll never catch me on stage with smelly breath haha!

If you could live inside the world of any fairy tale, what would it be? Do you have a favourite fairy tale character?

A little secret of mine is that when I was younger, I had a big crush on Cinderella. So if I could live inside any fairy tale it would have to be Cinderella, to see if I could win her over before Prince Charming gets there!

What kind of student were you at school? If you were to end up in detention, what would it be for?

I was quite a good student at school, I would always either be playing football, or inside playing the piano. I did tend to drift off in class though, and I once got a detention for daydreaming out the window for the whole lesson!

What was your favourite subject at school?

If I had to pick a favourite subject it would definitely be P.E! Even if it was cross country on a raining morning in December, I absolutely loved it.

Do you have any Christmas traditions?

My family and I make Christmas cookies and biscuits and hand them around our street. All of our neighbours join in, and it’s such a lovely way to wish everyone a merry Christmas with a little sweet treat.

Sleeping Beauty runs from Friday 27 November to Saturday 2 January. Find out more and book your tickets: