Lynne feels at home performing away as panto’s Wicked Queen
LYNNE McGranger has chalked up almost 24 years on Australian soap Home And Away, as Summer Bay local Irene Roberts.
In 2014 she was runner up on the Australian version of Dancing with the Stars.
Lynne used the show to raise awareness and much needed funds for the Bears of Hope Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support charity.
And now the 63-yearold Aussie legend is performing in Southport.
Lynne will be casting her spell over audiences this Christmas as the Wicked Queen in family pantomime Snow White at Southport Theatre.
Visiter reporter Kate Lally sat down with Lynne, ahead of her upcoming devilish dramatics.
So Lynne, you’ve been in Southport for a few days now. I bet you’re feeling the cold...?
“You know what? I love it!
“It suits me so much better than the heat and humiditiy.
“I’m a massive Anglophile. I’ve spent Christmas in England for the past 21 years.”
What are your plans for Christmas Day 2016?
“This year my partner is joining me in England, and we’re visiting some friends in Newark.
“And I’m especially excited because my daughter is coming over too.”
Is this your first time in Southport?
“No actually, I was here to do panto in 2001; I took part in a performance of Jack And The Beanstalk. “I’m a huge fan Southport.”
Panto roles must be a world away from playing Irene! What
of
And this isn’t the first time you have worked with Imagine Theatre, either.
“No it’s my third actually.
“I was a Fairy in Crewe back in 2008, and the Fairy Godmother in Cinderella in Newark last year.
“I had a great time in both Crewe and Newark and made some wonderful friends.
“I love the Imagine style of pantomime as they focus heavily on the quality of the production with strong stories, alongside a lot of humour that appeals to all ages.”
are the biggest differences between the two?
“Do you know what? Yes, they are massively different, but I’m a big fan of that.
“I love performing on stage because there’s no chance for a second take.
“You have that immediacy, that bond with your audience. I love the instant feedback; whether it’s cheers or boos.
“When I first started on Home and Away, I had no idea I’d be there for more
than two enal. “I’m lucky to be sharing a stage with some of the most talented people. “And it’s fun. It’s a lot of festive fun. It’s a great show to come along to and leave your seriousness at the door.”
Snow White runs from Friday, December 9, until Saturday,