Panto Cast In The Spotlight: Lois Elizabeth Glenister

Q&A with Lois Elizabeth Glenister

Our next panto cast member in the spotlight is Lois Elizabeth Glenister who plays Ratty. Lois tells us all about performing in Panto a child and how she's loving the transformation into Ratty to wow our audiences.

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

The last pantomime I performed in was The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus, when I was 12 years old at the Palace Theatre in Westcliff. It was the first show I had ever been in!

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

I am very excited for the first time my loved ones get to watch me as a Rat, they’re in for a real treat. I also love the thought of performing on Christmas Eve as the children will be super excited, only one more sleep...

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

My tail has been a huge part of becoming Ratty, I’m actually really going to miss it as I reach for it even when I’m not in costume, so you’ll probably catch me scurrying around in the wings with it pre-show.

Do you have any Christmas traditions?

One of my favourites is putting up the Christmas decorations with my Mum each year, it’s a week long project and we always find a way to sneak some new ones in without Dad noticing...

What is your favourite Christmas song?

I’m torn between Stop the Calvary by Jona Lewie and Little Saint Nick by The Beach Boys. Two utter bangers!

What’s your favourite Christmas film?

A Muppets Christmas Carol, hands down.

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

I really am! It’s lovely here and already feels very festive.

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