Panto Cast In The Spotlight: Jenny Perry

Q&A with Jenny Perry.

Our next panto cast member in the spotlight is Jenny Perry who plays Oracle, The Wicked Witch of Reading West. Jenny tells us all about her previous panto roles and how she's looking forward to feeling super Chistmassy in Newbury this year.

Have you been in a pantomime before? If so, which one(s) and what is your favourite thing about performing in one?

Yes,this will be my 8th panto (feeling old now)! I’ve played most roles – fairy, princess, principal boy and now villain! I love the interaction with the audience – especially the children – when everyone is in the scene together, the audience are part of the action, and you are having a laugh along with them!

Is there a specific performance night that you are looking forward to the most?

Christmas Eve as it tends to have the most audience energy and you feel super Christmassy! Also, apart from the ungodly hour, I actually love school shows as the kids bring so much energy, which you need at 10am!

Do you have any pre-show rituals to help you get into character?

A quick glance in the mirror with costume and make up is enough for me! The visual is enough to not feel like me and feel like the character.

Do you have any Christmas traditions?

I play ‘Driving home for Christmas’ about 5 times in a row first thing on my way home for Xmas!

What is your favourite Christmas song?

Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas - super schmaltz!

What’s your favourite Christmas film?

The Nightmare Before Christmas – the songs are brilliant!

Are you looking forward to spending the festive season in Newbury?

Very much so! I’m new to Newbury but I’ve heard many wonderful things!

Beauty and the Beast runs from Friday 24 November to Sunday 31 December 2023. Find out more and book your tickets here.