Our next director, Megan Russell, is busy preparing to start work on 'Rapunzel 2025'. In advance of this, we spoke to our most recent pantomime director, Sophie Baker, about her experience of directing for the first time. Here is what she had to say...
What made you want to direct a Probus Parish Players’ pantomime?
I have been involved with Probus Parish Players since I was eight years old and it is a group I love being a part of. It is a massive passion of mine, and I’ve played many characters on stage, as well as being part of the committee, so I thought, why don’t I step out of my comfort zone of being onstage and direct a pantomime?
How did you choose your script?
The truthful answer is I read one script and fell in love with it. I knew I wanted to do The Little Mermaid because I thought it would be a fun show to direct with all the different characters. Luckily, the first script I read was so funny and quick-witted, and I really thought I could add my own touches to make it a success.
What is your favourite memory of directing last year, or what was your favourite part of the production?
This is a really hard question because I really loved directing and seeing everyone bringing my ideas to life. I was really lucky that the people in my show took all of my mental ideas on board and really had patience with me, going with everything I said. One of my favourite memories of directing was definitely the ghost scene. I believe it was a funny added extra in the show!
Did you receive any words of advice from previous directors that helped you?
My mum who directed before gave her advice, but the one person I couldn’t have got through it without was Andrew Kennedy. He is literally the knowledge of panto. He helped me make sure my scenery worked and made that vision come to life. He helped with music and re-writing songs and had my back whenever I was unsure or worried I was not doing it right. He gave great advice and really built my confidence and helped me on my directing journey.
If you could do the pantomime again, is there anything you would change?
I actually don’t think I would change anything about the show. Everyone worked so hard and hopefully had as much fun as I did directing and watching.
Would you direct again in the future?
If Probus Parish Players would have me again, I would definitely want to do it again. I would want to do something which is different, like The Little Mermaid – something that is not a ‘traditional’ pantomime.
What would your advice be for future directors?
To believe in yourself and make sure you stick to your ideas. It is your vision and your show and you need to have fun because that is what pantomime is all about!
We always welcome new people to take up the challenge of directing a pantomime. If this is something you would be interested in, please don't hesitate to contact us through our website or by emailing info@probusparishplayers.co.uk.
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