PANTO SEASON: BEHIND THE SCENES - Meeting Maid Marian

Maid Marian is one of the odder roles in pantomime. Most of the other pantos either don't have a heroine, or have one who is, frankly, a simpering nitwit. Marian, on the other hand, is always a strong character, as adept at standing up to the evil Sheriff of Nottingham as any of the men in the show. With this in mind, we spoke to Cubbington Players' very own Maid Marian, Cathy MacKenzie, about the role, her amateur dramatic career, and one or two other things as well.

In the real world, Cathy is a PR executive who was introduced to Cubbington Players by a friend. This is her first production with the group. New to the area, she was looking for a way to meet local people and for something fun to do in the evenings.

Where else have you acted?

At school (Cambridge), and university. I was lucky at university to be able to perform in the Bloomsbury Theatre (although this was a long time ago!). Nothing since then.

What attracted you to amateur dramatics?

I've always really enjoyed acting up. It's basically grown-up showing off, I think... Plus being in a pantomime has been on my 'must do before I'm 30 list' for a long time. I'm a bit late, clearly.
 
How easy is it to fit in around the rest of your life?
 
OK so far. I work quite a way away so don't get home until 7pm or so, so it's quite a quick turn around for me. I haven't had to rehearse more than twice a week so far, though, so it's manageable. But it's great to do something different. I'm hoping that doing this will mean I'm far too busy to go to the gym, but I haven't been able to get out of it so far.
 
What sort of reaction do you get when you tell family/friends how you spend your spare time?
 
They laugh their heads off but actually I think they're secretly jealous that they're not so adventurous.
 
What is the best role you have ever played, and why?

I really enjoyed being Frenchie in Grease. Funny voice, fabulous outfits, dancing, singing. All good.
 
What role would you like to play in the future?

I'd like to do something more heavyweight. As I studied Ancient History at uni, I've always loved Greek tragedy. I'd love to play Euripides' Medea one day.
 
Who do you most admire and why - both in the professional theatre and at Cubbington Players?

Crikey. No idea. Erm, Judi Dench (does everyone say that?). Always great when a woman is appreciated for her talent and not just her looks. At Cubbington Players, everyone, I think! Every single person just gives so much time and energy, it's really fantastic.
 
If you could perform opposite someone famous, who would it be (and why)?

John Cleese. He just makes me die laughing.
 
What do you think of the show so far?

Looking good... Once we all put our scripts down and start moving around on stage a bit more, it will start looking even better.

 

 

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