Panto Cast In The Spotlight: Robbie Noonan
Q&A with Robbie Noonan
Our next panto cast member in the spotlight is Robbie Noonan who will be playing Batty in Beauty and the Beast. He is returning after last years Jack and the Beanstalk and can't wait to get started!
Have you been in a pantomime before? If so, which one(s) and what is your favourite thing about performing in one?
I have been in a pantomime before! At Drama School, I featured as the Title Role in Mother Goose and very luckily, I was in Jack and the Beanstalk at Corn Exchange Newbury last year as ensemble and was extremely lucky to feature as Jack for 5 performances!
Is there a specific performance night that you are looking forward to the most?
I always love the adult nights, as a performer being able to think on your feet and adapt and play is such a great experience. But obviously, the closer the Christmas the better! I love Christmas!
Do you have any pre-show rituals to help you get into character?
I have been known to put on music in the dressing rooms and getting everyone to dance along for an energy boost!
Do you have any Christmas traditions?
Where do I start? On the 1 December every year, I throw a ‘Whobillation’ (the celebration the have in The Grinch movie) great food and drinks, fun games. Just a good night of Christmas fun! Also a family tradition we have is to watch The Polar Express on Christmas eve, in our PJs and we drink hot chocolate to the hot chocolate song!
What is your favourite Christmas song?
Too many to pick from! Anything from the Pentatonix arrangements. But also A Spaceman Came Travelling or Love is Christmas by Sara Bareilles.
What’s your favourite Christmas film?
Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
Are you looking forward to spending the festive season in Newbury?
Obviously! The Corn Exchange offers such a brilliantly supportive and festive environment, it’s hard not to look forward to it!
Beauty and the Beast runs from Friday 24 November to Sunday 31 December 2023. Find out more and book your tickets here.