There is nothing like a dame…
…and Clive Rowe should know having performed in this role at the Hackney Empire’s much-loved Christmas panto a staggering 18 times. This year, it’s Dick Whittington and his Cat, with Clive promising more festive fun, frolics and thrills than ever before
INTERVIEW BY KELLY BESWICK
First off Clive, how does it feel to be directing and starring in the Hackney Empire’s 25th pantomime?
It’s always a pleasure and a privilege, but this one does feel a little bit extra special.
I understand this is your 18th – did you ever foresee becoming such a staple when you first started out?
Yes, it’s my 18th, but who’s counting! And no, never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I would become a staple of the Hackney Empire’s Christmas panto, but I’m very honoured that that is the case though.
Do you still get a thrill from appearing?
Yes, I still get a thrill in general when I perform in anything but especially panto, I can’t imagine how you could do pantomime and not enjoy it. Every performance is so joyous and raucous, it’s impossible not to get swept along.
Pantomimes are such a uniquely British institution, why do you think that is?
I have no idea, but I suspect the fact that they are irreverent, full of fun and with a cheeky sense of humour appeals to British sensibilities and hark back to the music hall days, which are part of our DNA.
What prompted you to start directing the panto too?
It wasn’t in my grand scheme of things, but I was approached by Jo Hemmant, the CEO of the theatre, and asked if I fancied directing. She must have caught me on a good week because I immediately said yes and so far, it’s a decision I haven’t regretted!
But hasn’t this doubled your workload?
No it hasn’t doubled the workload, it’s multiplied it exponentially. Not that I’m complaining. I thrive on the adrenaline that comes from being busy.
How does it feel when you first slip into the dame costume?
It’s like slipping on your favourite party shoes – you just know you’re going to have a great time.
How much input do you have in your character’s appearance?
I do have some, but to be honest, most of my appearance is down to Cleo Pettitt, our fabulous designer.
How much time do you spend in wardrobe and make-up for each performance?
Well, I’m constantly changing throughout the show, but the costumes are designed in such a way that they are very easy to get in and out of. As for my make-up, well that is applied over a 20-minute period and once I’ve got it done, it needs very little touching up and that’s even on a two-show day.
Can you briefly describe your latest character, Sarah the Cook, in Dick Whittington and his Cat?
Sarah Cook is the housekeeper and cook for Alderman Fitz Warren (the father of Dick’s love interest, Alice). She’s a jolly, warm-hearted and generous character who can be a little bit cheeky but always means well.
What can audiences expect from this year’s panto?
Audiences can expect the usual joy, laughter and fantastic song and dance numbers in an evening that’s been especially designed to entertain all the family.
How important is the audience’s interaction during each performance and does it vary?
The audience interaction is absolutely paramount in pantomime. In fact, I would go as far as to say that it makes up at least 25 per cent of our show. Yes the feel of it may change, for example a schools matinee audience is completely different to an evening audience. But as a company we have to be respectful to those differences.
Does performing in panto help get you in the Christmas spirit or do you sometimes feel that working over this period means you miss out?
Getting into the Christmas spirit has never been a problem for me. I simply put my favourite Christmas songs on a loop and I’m feeling it. And no, I don’t feel I miss out doing panto – quite the opposite in fact.
How are you planning to spend your one day off on Christmas Day this year, I’d imagine you’ll be exhausted?
Yes, I am usually very tired, but that won’t stop me from spending a part of my day with close friends who will be looking after me feeding me and then getting me in a taxi home. I will always be indebted to them for that.
Finally, when do you think you’ll hang up your Dame’s outfit or do you hope to go on as long as you can?
Hang up my Dame outfit!!! I didn’t even know that was an option.
Dick Whittington and his Cat is currently playing at the Hackney Empire until Sunday 5 January.
Ticket prices start at £10. For more details or to book a ticket, visit: hackneyempire.co.uk
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