Glitz and glitter abound as performers prepare for Christmas pantomime in Bible Hill
Wearing a multi- coloured dress, earrings that would be better suited as Christmas tree ornaments, and a wig that makes him a foot taller, Carl Goodwin draws laughs before he even opens his mouth.
Goodwin, who played Macbeth in Shakespeare in the Park this year, has taken on the role of “the dame” in the area’s first Christmas pantomime, Sleeping Beauty.
“I’ve never played the part of a woman before,” he said. “I’m confident enough in myself that I don’t mind putting a dress on, and I really don’t worry about what people think.
“My biggest problem in rehearsals is seeing the script. I have bifocal glasses, and if I looked down to read, the breasts were in the way.”
As a soccer and rugby player, he’s used to having eyes on him, but he’s enjoying the chance to perform on new stages.
“My sense of humour is kind of mischievous so this is fun,” he said.
“I was asked to do this by Linda Finnie, and I have this weakness –when someone asks me to help, and I have the time, I will do it. I found myself agreeing before I knew much about what was involved.”
The pantomime includes fairies, royalty, spells, songs, and lots of glitz and glitter. As is traditional with Christmas pantomimes, there will also be audience participation.
The Truro Pantomime Theatre’s production of Sleeping Beauty will be staged at the Alumni Theatre, on the Dal AC campus, Nov. 30 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 1 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Dec. 2 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $7.50 and can be purchased at Macquarrie’s Pharmasave, Esplanade location, from cast and crew members, or online at www.colchesterhighlandgames.com