Interview with Clark James
Godalming Pantomime
Cinderella
You’re invited to the ball this December, as Wysch Productions presents Surrey’s family Pantomime, Cinderella, performing at The Borough Hall, Godalming, from 11 – 26 December 2021. Clark James play Cinderella’s friend and confidant Buttons. We wanted to know more about his character and about his relationship with Godalming Pantos and why he keeps returning.
Tell us more about your character, Buttons – what can we expect from him?
Buttons is kinda like the glue that holds everyone together, he’s loveable, adorable and sweet. Always ready to put a smile on your face even in the worst moments. Plus, the dad jokes are always on point and of the highest quality…he’s just a big goofball!
What are you most looking forward to about returning to Godalming panto, having appeared in Jack and The Beanstalk in 2019?
Definitely the fun – the cast and team are just brilliant. The hilarity makes the show so much fun to do. It’s great being back, I loved being in Jack and the Beanstalk a few years ago. It was brilliant being a part of the first professional panto in Godalming. I’m honestly so grateful to be back on stage after the last two years and coming back to Godalming for panto makes it even better.
Do you have a favourite scene in the show? (your own or others’!)
I don’t actually think I have a favourite scene but I definitely have a fair few favourites moments/lines that really make me giggle. The cast members are unbelievably talented and we’ve all got on so well which means the rehearsal process has been hilarious so we’ve all giggled far too much – especially when the ugly sisters are involved!
Which character would you like to play if you weren’t Buttons?
Ahhhhh they all have their pros but if I had to pick I’d probably say one of the ugly sisters, simply because they are so much fun. Then again, the fairy has a lot of fun playing around with different characters which is comedy gold. Hmmm… an ugly sister, finally answer.
Why do you think Godalming pantomimes have proved to be so popular? What’s the secret of a successful panto do you think?
I think the big reason Godalming panto is doing so well is because they are staying true to a classic panto. All the humour, fun and ultimately it’s all about family. A good panto is for everyone, children, adults, people of all ages. It’s an essential part of Christmas in the U.K. and staying true to that is what makes a great panto.
What else have you got planned for the Christmas season and beyond that into the New Year?
Spending Christmas Day with my family and then new year with my partner’s family up in Newcastle. As for the rest of 2022, who know? Very much a wait and see and keep my fingers crossed.
Listing
Show: Cinderella
Dates: 11 – 26 December 2021
Times: Varies – matinee and evening performances; see website or call the Box Office
Running Time: 2 hours (including interval)
Venue address: The Borough Hall, The Burys, Godalming, GU7 1HY
Tickets: £22 standard, £20 concessions (OAPs, under 16’s, unemployed). Prices include booking fees. Children aged 2 and under go free but they must sit on a lap.
Book at www.GodalmingPanto.com or call 01483 361101.
Access:There is disabled access throughout the venue. On 19 December at 6pm there will be a relaxed performance specifically adapted for those on the autism spectrum, individuals with sensory and communication disorders, those with learning disabilities and anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment. Tickets for this performance can only be purchased by calling the Box Office on 01483 361101.