What’s your favourite thing about this time of year?
I love the Christmas season for so many reasons. The crisp weather, the romance and the swell of gratitude and love towards our family and friends. Every year I am drawn in by the music, the celebrations and the food and I adore giving presents. This year I put up our decorations right after Halloween!
Do you have any fond memories of working in a show at Christmas? If so, how do you prepare to get into the holiday spirit for a seasonal production?
Each year I direct and choreograph a pantomime for Crossroads pantos. It is the perfect way to end the year in a hard working but joyful environment, sharing a multitude of talents to full houses with audiences that absolute love all the routines, jokes and chaos. There’s nothing like feeling that enjoyment and hearing laughter that raises the roof. I am directing and choreographing Cinderella at Manchester Opera House this year which is a theatre very close to my heart. I also choreographed The Mill at Sonning production of White Christmas which got us into the festive spirit very early. A wonderful show with a brilliant cast - a must see and only on until the 25th of January.
What’s your go to Christmas theatre show/film to watch?
Growing up it was always The Wizard of Oz so this year I shall be late to the party when I go and see Wicked, this year’s Christmas blockbuster. I love The Holiday as the perfect Christmas Rom Com guilty pleasure to watch at home and now White Christmas has become a fond favourite. I am also taking the family to see the Palladium panto on Boxing Day.
What does your perfect festive day in London look like?
Ice skating, Mulled Wine, Shopping, Hot Chocolate, Christmas Carols.
As we look towards 2025, what are you most looking forward to?
New challenges, more family time, working with brilliant and dear friends.
What are your hopes for the new year?
I genuinely hope people can find more peace with one another. The world is becoming more segregated - it is a scary and sad time.
BBA Management represents a roster of exceptional talent including Gary Lloyd, and many more.