We caught up with our Dame, Oliver Brooks, ahead of his role as Dame Trott this Christmas in our 2024 panto Jack and the Beanstalk!

1. Are you excited to be coming to Bournemouth this Christmas?

I am very very excited to be coming to Bournemouth this Christmas. It is genuinely one of my favourite places. I have been visiting Bournemouth and the surrounding areas my whole life, so every time I get the chance to be in a show here it feels very special. The Pavilion is such a lovely theatre and I was last here with Strictly Ballroom the Musical, doing the samba on that lovely stage! Well I can’t wait to be Dame-ing it up on that very same stage with all of you. The people of Bournemouth have always been so kind and welcoming, so I cannot wait to be with you all for Christmas!

2. What are you most looking forward to in this year’s panto?

I am most looking forward to sharing all of the fun of this fabulous pantomime with the Pavilion audiences! It’s such a fun filled show, with amazing 3D effects and wonderful costumes and set! The Dame’s not bad either!

3. What does doing panto mean to you?

Panto means joy, fun and Christmas! No matter where I am when I’m in a panto, I always know that it will be bring joy and a sense of escapism for everyone involved. It’s an opportunity to let go and get into the festive spirit! Walk through the theatre doors, get yourself some treats, sit in your lovely seats and forget your troubles!

4. What do you enjoy about starring in pantos?

Playing the dame is a real honour! Not only do I get to be silly, but I also have the opportunity to communicate directly with the lovely audiences. We as a cast always have so much fun and that then means the audience have fun. So to be in a position where you can actually encourage and inspire people to have fun, that’s pretty special. I also love singing, dancing and wearing ginormous costumes!!!

5. What is your favourite Christmas tradition?

My favourite Christmas tradition (apart from being in or watching a panto) is being with my Mom & Sister on Christmas Day. No matter what city or town I’m performing in, the two of them pack their bags, rent a holiday home and together, the three of us make Christmas a real special occasion!

Don't miss Oliver this festive season in Jack and the Beanstalk, coming to Bournemouth Pavilion from Saturday 7 December 2024 – Sunday 5 January 2025.