Meet The Cinderella Cast: Claire Greenway

Claire Greenway is the most fabulous fairy in panto land - in fact so fabulous she was our fairy in Sleeping Beauty last year and has returned to the Gatehouse to play the funky Fairy Funlove in Cinderella!

Stafford Gathouse Theatre: What's your favourite thing about Rock 'n' Roll Panto Claire?

Claire Greenway: It's the combination of everything I love - funny scripts, amazing music and the most talented people I have ever met.

SGT: Tell us just a few of the instruments you are playing this year:

CG: Alto and tenor saxaphone and piano

SGT: What are you most enjoying this year?

CG: I love singing Try A Little Tenderness, but my highlight will always be Gregory Clarke in a dress (Gregory plays the ugly sister Verruca)

SGT: Do you have any pre-show rituals?

CG: Check my wings are on straight!

SGT: In this show you are Cinderella's fairy godmother, but if you had a fairy godmother of your own who could grant you one wish, what would it be?

CG: To steal all my cast mate's talents so I could rule the world!

SGT: And finally, why do you think panto has remained such an iconic tradition?

CG: It's pure joy - silliness, romance, innuendo, and our music makes it perfect!

 

Claire in action as Fairy Funlove

 

Spot the Slipper - Greeting from the Fairy Godmother

Hello there! I bet you didn't see me appear, did you? I am Cinderella's fairy godmother and I only ever show up when Cinderella needs my help. I've heard that Cinderella has lost her pretty silver slipper. What a shame, I know how much she cherishes them!

There's just one slight problem. I'm currently on my Christmas holidays and I'm strictly not allowed to use my fairy powers out of hours. I don't suppose you could help me out, could you?

I may not have my fairy godmother powers, but what I do have is a pair of tickets to the Cinderella rock'n'roll panto at The Stafford Gatehouse Theatre. If you can help me find Cinderella's silver slipper before I get back from holiday, you could be in with a chance of winning them.

All you have to do is correctly guess where Cinderella's slipper in located in the photo below.

 

I can give you a small clue, although I can't say too much! I don't want to lose my fairy powers for good now, do I? If you aren't driving home for Christmas, chances are you'll be taking this mode of transport instead. And you will find Cinderella's silver slipper precisely where your journey begins.

Comment below to submit your answer. The winner of the first pair of tickets will be announced this Friday afternoon.

After the winner is announced on Friday afternoon, they must contact our press and marketing officer, Emma Hogan, by by e-mailing ehogan@staffordbc.gov.uk for further details on claiming their prize.

To find out more about this year’s rock’n’roll panto visit www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk. Now, I really do have to go! Poof!

Meet the Cinderella cast: David Hewson

David has been busy storming the stage as Dandini the international rock-god in Cinderella, quite a change from his role as Harold the Herald in last year's Sleeping Beauty. We caught up with David to talk all things panto.

Stafford Gatehouse Theatre: It's great to have you back this year David, what made you go for a rock 'n' roll panto again?

David Hewson: I love panto anyway but in rock 'n' roll ones you get to play some fantastic music as a live band - what's not to like?

SGT: What instruments are you playing in the show?

DH: Mainly keyboard and guitar.

SGT: What are you enjoying most in this year's show?

DH: I get to sing "Shake A Tailfeather" which is such a great song. It opens act II so hopefully it will get everyone into high spirits!

SGT: What are your pre-show rituals?

DH: Brush my teeth!

SGT: Why do you think audiences love panto so much?

DH: I think because it caters to all ages - silly jokes for the little 'uns, slightly ruder ones for the older ones, songs, dancing and lots of audience participation!


SGT: And finally, if your fairy Godmother could grant you one wish what would it be?

DH: A ticket to travel around the world. 

 

Meet the Cinderella cast: Katia Sartini

 

Today's interview is with Katia, who plays the evil Rubella De Zees in Cinderella. Last year she played the fabulously funky Fairy Frederica so we spoke to Katia to see how she's finding being the villain this year.

Stafford Gatehouse Theatre: Hi Katia, how are you finding playing an evil character this year?

Katia Sartini: I have been SO excited to play the villain! After being funny fairy Freddy last year it's a wonderful change and challenge. I don't know how I feel about everyone boo-ing me though, I'm lovely really.

SGT: What made you want to come back this year?

KS: My favourite genre of music is Rock & Roll so it's the PERFECT show for me! Plus being surrounded by so much talent is inspiring.

SGT: What instruments are you playing this year?

KS: Alto, Tenor and Bari sax and tinkling the keys!

SGT: Why do you think panto is so popular?

KS: It's a release! People love to laugh and just be silly, and at panto it's toally acceptable.

SGT: Who would be your dream date to Prince Charming's ball?

KS: Jared Leto!

SGT: Do you have any pre-show rituals?

KS: Whack Whitney Houston on the iplayer and belt my heart out.

SGT: And finally, if you could be granted one Chrismtas wish what would it be?

KS: To bring my Nonna Diana (Grandma) over from Italy to live with us. She's 95 and the most amazing woman.

Spot the Slipper - Greetings from Prince Charming

Ah, hello all. Prince Charming here. I do apologise, I would be more welcoming but I am suffering from unbearable heartbreak. Just a few days ago, I met the most beautiful girl I have ever laid eyes upon...

We danced the night away but now she is nowhere to be found! I only have one hope of finding out who this girl is and that is by finding the owner of this exquisite silver slipper. Now, where did I leave it?

Oh no, I need your help! I have misplaced the silver slipper that was going to lead me to my princess. I would be forever grateful if you kind people of Stafford would help me find it, it has to be somewhere nearby!

As a thank you, if you can identify where the photo of the slipper has been taken, you will be entered into the competition to win a free pair of tickets to this year's rock'n'roll Christmas panto. You never know, you may even meet your own prince or princess there!

 

If you're not sure where a prince lives, let me help you out. The place where I spend my days will transport you back to medieval times. With its high stone walls and grand exterior, it can be seen for miles. When I am here I feel like I am king of the... Oh my, look at the time! Sorry, got to dash!

Comment below to submit your answer. The winner of the fourth pair of tickets will be announced this Friday afternoon.

After the winner is announced on Friday afternoon, they must contact our press and marketing officer, Emma Hogan, by e-mail on ehogan@staffordbc.gov.uk for further details on claiming their prize.

To find out more about this year’s rock’n’roll panto visit www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk. Thank you and good luck!

Comedy In The MET suggested line up for Saturday 20th December

We've just had the suggested* line up through for Comedy In The MET on Saturday and we think you'd be a fool not to snap up one of the last tickets! Here's who's coming to Stafford on Saturday...

 

Suzi Ruffle

Performing all over the country Suzi has quickly established herself supporting Alan Carr, Josh Widdicombe and Kevin Bridges on tour.
Ruffell’s first television appearance on BBC3’s Ed Comedy Fest Live and is soon to be performing on Comedy Centrals 'Live From The Comedy Store'.

She also recently recorded a two hour XFM Comedy Special as one of their featured comedy rising stars. Also she has been heard on Radio ones Lolz Lounge click here to watch the radio and Stephen K Amos' Radio 4 show.
Away from stand up Suzi is also a talented writer with her latest script a collaboration with award winning writer Jon Brittain being nominated for a BAFTA Rocliffe New Writing Award which is now in development with BigTalk Productions. She has written for 8 out 10 Cats, The Last leg, Twit of the Year and Stand Up For The Week.

Richard Morton

With his comedy songs, Richard has built up a formidable reputation as a live act, and completed several major UK tours supporting the likes of Jack Dee, Lee Evans, Jo Brand, Eddie Izzard and Phill Jupitus, and is a founder member of The Comedy Store’s Cutting Edge Show. Richard is still a headline act on the international comedy circuit.

A big favourite at the Edinburgh Festival, Richard completed several sell-out runs of his one-man show at the Assembly Rooms.

Richard’s many TV credits include his current appearance in Comedy Exchange (Comedy Central, 2009). He had his own half-hour Comedy Store special screened at the opening of Channel 5 in 1997, and he appeared regularly in the ensuing Comedy Store series (now on Comedy Central) for the following ten years.

Michael Legge

Michael Legge is fast becoming the most sought after host on the comedy circuit. He is a unique comic talent with a background in improvisation, stand-up, writing, compering, hosting, acting and TV warm-up work.

As a performer, he is sharp and cutting edge, whilst being cheeky, lively and charming. Currently one of the circuit's most sought-after acts and hosts, Michael performs all over Britain and beyond, including The Irish Republic, Australia, Canada and Dubai. He writes for the BBC, C4, C5 and Sky One and was sole writer for MTV's website The Osbournes, winner of a BIMA award and nominated for a BAFTA.

 

Tickets for Saturday night's show are just £10 and there are a few left - click here to snap one up!

 

*Please note the line up for Saturday may be subject to change. MET Comedy is recommended for ages 16+

Meet the Cinderella cast: Gregory Clarke and Joshua Meredith

They've been causing mischief and mayhem as the very ugly sisters in Cinderella since our rock 'n' roll panto opened last week so we thought it was only right to get to know Gregory and Joshua a little better. It turns out they are jsut as naughty off stage as they are on it!


Joshua (left) and Gregory (right)

Stafford Gatehouse Theatre: How would you sum up Rock 'n' Roll Panto?

Gregory: Mix 1 part rock guitar, stir in 2 tablespoons of silly costumes and microwave until 'ridiculous'

SGT: What are you both most looknig forward to in this year's show?

Joshua: Wearing a pretty frock and playing a fine selection of tunes!
Gregory: This is a first for me, playing an ugly sister, so that's been the biggest bit of excitement!
 
SGT: Gregory, this is your thirs year back with us for panto, what instruments are you taking on this year?

Gregory: I am mostly rockin' the gee-tars.

SGT: Who would be your dream dates to Prince Charming's ball?

Gregory: Oooh, Alice Eve will do nicely thanks.
Joshua: Natalie Portman.

SGT: What do you always do before a show?
 
Joshua: Try to learn my lines.

Gregory: Walk to the theatre.

SGT: If you could have one wish from your fairy godmother what would it be?

Gregory: To jam onstage with The Beatles.

Joshua: An extra hour after midnight to get a post-ball takeaway.

SGT: Why do you think panto has remained such an iconic part of Christmas?

Joshua: It doesn't take itself too seriously.

Gregory: Who knows? Cross dressing and rude jokes for all the family - what's not to like?!

SGT: Quite! Thanks both for taking time out of the show to speak to us!



The boys in action

Spot the Slipper - Greetings from an ugly sister

Hello, you horrible lot! It's one of Cinderella's beautiful sisters here. I'm sure you're all very excited about my sister and I coming to town. I'm afraid there is one downside, my awfully irritating step-sister Cinderella will be coming along too!

I'm here to give you all the details on how you can win tickets to see our panto, which you would be mad to miss!

My clumsy step-sister Cinderella has lost one of her treasured silver slippers and she hasn't stopped whining since it went missing!  Stafford Gatehouse Theatre is giving away a pair of free panto tickets to anyone who can help put an end to her endless blubbing and help find her slipper!

Can you guess where her slipper is in the photo below? If you think you're clever enough, leave a comment and you'll be in with a chance of seeing my gorgeous sister and I on stage.

What's that, you need a clue? Fine, but only because I'm desperate for Cinderella to put a sock in it...

Whether it's fantasy, sci-fi or horror stories that you seek, you'll find what you're looking for here. You might even spot the story of Cinderella and her two delightful step sisters to take home and read...

Comment below to submit your answer. The winner of the third pair of tickets will be announced this Friday afternoon. Don't miss out on your chance to see the most enchanting love story of all time. That is, if Prince Charming realises I'm the one he's looking for!

After the winner is announced on Friday afternoon, they must contact our press and marketing officer, Emma Hogan, by e-mail on ehogan@staffordbc.gov.uk for further details on claiming their prize.

To find out more about this year’s rock’n’roll panto visit www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk.

Now, I have to get back to troubling Cinderella, goodbye!

 

New Cinderella cast interview - Alex Spinney

This week's panto interview is with the fabulous Alex Spinney, who plays Prince Charming in the show. You can read his interview here!

Spot the slipper - Greetings from Buttons

Hello there! Buttons here, servant to Baron Hardup. I'm the most handsome and intelligent character in all of pantoland! Just kidding, that's probably Cinders - oh to hold her in these arms of mine... ahem, I believe you heard from her last week?

A quick recap for all you latecomers, beautiful and smart as she is, my girl isn't half scatty. Cinders has been so busy recently, what with all the housework her ugly sisters force her to do and rehearsals for this year's panto, that she's gone and left her silver slipper somewhere in Stafford.

So we need your help. The lovely people at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre are giving away a pair of free panto tickets every week until January 10 to anyone with a keen eye.

If you can identify where her slipper can be found, from the photo below, leave a comment and you'll be in the hat for a free pair of tickets to the event that The Sentinel called - "the best panto you will ever see!" Ever! Not that I'm bragging...

It's as easy as ABC, but if you're stuck I suppose your old pal Buttons could give you a clue. But you might want to think about getting yourself to an opticians...

This week's location is the most festive in all of Stafford. No, not the pub. Think big, think green. I've said too much!

Comment below to submit your answer. The winner of the second pair of tickets will be announced this Friday afternoon. Don’t miss out on your chance to see the only rock'n'roll Christmas panto in the Midlands.

After the winner is announced on Friday afternoon, they must contact our press and marketing officer, Emma Hogan, by e-mail on ehogan@staffordbc.gov.uk for further details on claiming their prize.

To find out more about this year’s rock’n’roll panto visit www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk. Good luck folks!

P.S. Top marks to those who spotted some rock'n'roll song titles in this blog post. Buttons, over and out. 

New interview: Meet Cinderella

Over the next few weeks we'll be posting interviews with our Cinderella cast. Today's interview is with Cinderella herself, Beth Peach-Robinson. You can read her interview here.

Rock around our Panto Christmas Tree

St.Mary's Christmas Tree Festival has started today and runs until Sunday 8th December. You can take a peek at our special Cinderella rock 'n' roll tree by clicking here.

Spot the Slipper – Greetings from Cinderella

Hello everyone! Rock’n’rolling Cinderella here, but friends call me Cinders. To get you into the Christmas spirit we’re kicking off our panto competition.

We’ve been rehearsing this year’s show like crazy, but in all the hustle and bustle one of my silver slippers has gone missing.

The Gatehouse crew needs your help to find my missing slipper and as a thank you they're giving away free panto tickets to anyone willing to help. We’ll be giving away a pair of tickets every week until January 10.

It’s as easy as pumpkin pie, we promise!

To win the first pair of free tickets to our Cinderella Rock ‘n’ Roll panto just correctly guess where my glittery slipper is located.

If you’re still not sure, here’s a hint. My silver slipper can be found at the heart of all plays, pantomimes and shows in Stafford. It would certainly be my dream to go to the ball there…

Comment below to submit your answer. The winner of the first pair of tickets will be announced this Friday afternoon. Don’t miss out on your chance to see what the Birmingham Mail called “a fantastic family festive treat”!

After the winner is announced on Friday afternoon, they must contact our Press and Marketing Officer Emma Hogan, by e-mail on ehogan@staffordbc.gov.uk for further details on claiming their prize.

To find out more about this year’s rock’n’roll panto visit www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk.

Good luck my lovelies!

Spot the slipper and win free panto tickets

We will be giving away a pair of free tickets for this year’s Cinderella rock’n’roll panto every week between December 1 and January 10. To win, all you have to do is check the blog, guess where the latest picture of Cinderella’s slipper was taken and share your answer in a comment.  Each week, a winner will be chosen at random from the pool of correct answers.

This year, our famous rock’n’roll panto takes the beloved story of Cinderella and gives it a shake, rattle and roll, transforming it into an entertaining and slapstick performance suitable for the whole family. Classic hits from Otis Redding, The Temptations, The Jackson 5, The Blues Brothers and many more will be performed live on stage by our talented crew of actor musicians.

“Our Spot the slipper competition is a bit of festive fun, especially for those with a keen eye for detail,” explained Emma Hogan, press and marketing officer of Stafford Gatehouse Theatre. “The game is open to entrants of all ages and musical preferences. The only requirement is knowing Stafford well enough to recognise the landmarks where Cinderella’s silver slipper has been photographed.” 

 

This year, we are particularly pleased to welcome back the internationally renowned director Paulette Randall. After amazing the entire world as an associate director for the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics, Paulette broke box office records with the Sleeping Beauty rock’n’roll panto in Stafford last year. This season, the talented director promises there will be even more shakin’ going on at the Stafford Gatehouse Theatre.

The first winners of the Spot the slipper competition will be announced on Friday, December 5, at 12pm, via the blog. Each Friday until January 9, a new winner will be chosen from the pool of correct answers received during the week. The following Monday, a new picture will be posted and blog readers can try their luck once more.

Winners need to contact Emma Hogan, press and marketing officer at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, to claim their prize. They can do so by e-mail on ehogan@staffordbc.gov.uk