Magic of the panto at The Civic: The fun of playing in sleeping beauty

The magic of panto season will take centre stage in The Civic next month, with the return of the venue’s annual panto being a highlight for children all over the county.

A cast of talented actors and crew are currently putting the finishing touches to their hotly anticipated performance of ‘Sleeping Beauty’.

The spellbinding fairytale will be brought to life on The Civic stage, and the show offers something for all the family and promises to be a glittering and funny show full of festive cheer.

The show will run from December 7, with its run recently extended to January 8 due to high demand.

Sarah Harvey, who plays the Good Queen, originally from Rathfarnham and now lives in Firhouse, told The Echo about her own career path and how preparations for the panto are going.

What led you to pursue a career in the performing arts?

I was introduced to the performing arts at a young age through my parents’ involvement in amateur productions. From there I fell in love with performing, and it became a passion of mine. As I got older, I realised it was a career path I was going to try and pursue.

You previously taught performing arts in Sydney. How did being a teacher compare to being a performer?

I fell into the teaching world and realised it was a great link between the two. I love seeing the kids learn and grow and enjoy it as much as I did when I was younger. Performing is my passion and my first love, and I think it makes me a better teacher.

Do you have any childhood memories of going to Christmas pantos? If so, what did you enjoy most about them?

Yes, I do. It was such a treat for us. I loved getting dressed up and going to a theatre and I loved the magic of it all. I remember wanting to be up on stage with them!

How did you feel when you found out you’d been cast as The Good Queen in this year’s Christmas panto at the Civic, ‘Sleeping Beauty’?

To be honest, I was completely elated. I am so excited and so grateful to get to spend the Christmas season performing in the Civic with such a talented bunch.

How have rehearsals been going?

Rehearsals have been amazing. The atmosphere is fantastic. We have been working very hard to make this pantomime one to remember. We have a wonderful production team led by the fabulous Rob Murphy.

What do you enjoy most about portraying The Good Queen?

I love that she is trying to help save the day. She is a fun, bubbly character and a very enjoyable role to take on.

What can the audience expect from the show?

Fun, magic, music, dancing and lots and lots of laughter. The production team have outdone themselves this year!

A ticket for a family of four to go to ‘The Civic Panto – Sleeping Beauty’ is €70 including booking fees, and there will be a sensory-friendly performance on Tuesday, December 20 at 6.30pm.

Tickets are available on the Civic Theatre website.