THIS year’s pantomime at Swindon’s Wyvern Theatre has been wowing audiences. Packed houses for every performance of Peter Pan mean the only chance of really getting a ticket is on the returns. EastEnders star Adam Woodyatt, playing Captain Hook has said it is his best panto ever. “I have done 12 or 13 pantos but this one is by far the best,” said the soap star. SARAH SINGLETON went behind the scenes to ask some of the cast what it is like being part of one of the biggest Christmas traditions

Eastenders star Adam Woodyatt is playing Captain Hook in the Wyvern Theatre’s production of Peter Pan.

Is panto as fun to do as it is to watch?

I’m not sure how to answer this question as for me it’s about entertaining the audience and not our selves. Obviously as an actor it’s a terrific experience and it can be tiring with two shows a day. But my personal enjoyment is hearing that the audience have had a really good time!

Do you have memories of watching pantomimes as a child?

I do have memories of it being a magical experience! I also never at that age thought I would star in a pantomime one day!

What is the funniest / strangest thing that has happened to you in a panto performance?

Feeling the magic of Christmas as people of all ages laugh, sing and go along with us on a journey!

How do you like to spend Christmas Day?

Seeing my family and sharing the Christmas Dinner. Although I can’t drink too much as I’m back with two performances on Boxing Day.

What’s next for you once the pantomime is finished?

I will be returning to EastEnders and planning a summer family holiday.

Danielle Black is playing Eliza/Tigerlily. Danielle's previous performances include a role in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part Two.

Is panto as fun to do as it is to watch?

I have a great time performing in a pantomime. It doesn't feel like a job. Behind the scenes and on stage is always so exciting. Everyone is lovely and you do not stop laughing throughout the run.

Do you have memories of watching pantomimes as a child?

I do, and I always remember thinking how magical it was seeing a panto. I was really into the story and the costumes.

What is the funniest / strangest thing that has happened to you in a panto performance?

I was playing Cinderella and I had to walk down quite a lot of stairs in the ballroom scene. I had a huge dress on and could not see my feet and where I was walking. As I was reluctantly walking down the stairs, I slipped and completely missed the step and fell down a couple of stairs in front of everyone! The prince helped me up, I wish he got there a bit earlier so he could have caught me. Oh well, I will never forget that embarrassing moment.

How do you like to spend Christmas Day?

I always spend Christmas Day in my pjs. I have a big family - there’s six of us and we all end up acting like children. We buy lots of presents for each other and eat loads of chocolate. Chocolate is a big thing in my house.

What’s next for you once the pantomime is finished?

I will be back to auditioning and looking for the next job. I am setting up Musical Theatre Classes for children in North Finchley on Sunday mornings so that will be keeping me busy I'm sure.

Antony Lawrence, who plays Smee, has most recently performed in the national tour of Mary Poppins. His other work includes roles in Matilda The Musical (Cambridge Theatre/RSC) and We Will Rock You (International Arena Tour)

Is panto as fun to do as it is to watch?

I have never done a Panto before so I am yet to know if they are as fun to do as they are to watch. I have lots of friends who have done them that all tell me it is such a fun thing to do and that I am going to have an amazing time - so I will have to take a rain check on that one until December 31st!

Do you have memories of watching pantomimes as a child?

I used to love watching pantomime at Christmas as a child. I grew up in Plymouth so my Mum and Dad would always take me and my sister every year to the Theatre Royal to watch the Plymouth pantomime. I have watched many pantomime legends perform there. Particular favourites have to be Joe Pasquale, Matt Slack and of course the legendary Danny La Rue.

What is the funniest / strangest thing that has happened to you in a panto performance?

I am having nightmares regularly about all the different things that could happen to me in this show.

How do you like to spend Christmas Day?

I like to spend Christmas with my wife and our families. We enjoy a big traditional family Christmas, loads of games, quizzes and of course a mountain of food! If you don’t fall asleep watching strictly come dancing in the early evening from eating too much food, then you haven’t done Christmas correctly.

What’s next for you once the pantomime is finished?

After pantomime I am off on the International Tour of The Lion King playing the role of Scar.

Abigail Matthews is playing Mrs Darling and Tinkerbell

Is panto as fun to do as it is to watch?

Yes! It's great! There's no other form of performance where you can have such a high level of energy and fun, and such an unrestricted audience response.

Do you have memories of watching pantomimes as a child?

I do. My mother always performed in pantomimes and in other productions throughout the year- I remember the days when we were called up onto stage and asked to say our name and favourite colour etc. Then join in the community song. It was very exciting!

What is the funniest / strangest thing that has happened to you in a panto performance?

In a production when I was playing Dick Whittington, the gold was put into my knapsack at the wrong time and clearly in my view! That was a hard one to cover, and had me and the audience laughing a lot as I pretended I hadn't seen!

How do you like to spend Christmas Day?

With family and friends where possible, depending on where in the country I am!

What’s next for you once the pantomime is finished?

I'm head of Drama at a part-time arts school in south London, so I will continue to tutor there whilst auditioning for the next role.

Ryan Anderson plays Peter Pan

Is panto as fun to do as it is to watch?

It's amazing, it's filled with amazing vibes and Christmas energy. It's extra special when you are doing a story such as Peter Pan as there is so much magic within the story.

Do you have memories of watching pantomimes as a child?

I never watched a panto growing up as I was always in the children's ensemble at the oxford playhouse. Funny story: my first job was the back end of a cow...

What is the funniest / strangest thing that has happened to you in a panto performance?

The funniest thing is probably slipping over in Aladdin on the custard in 12 days of Christmas... dressed as a gorilla to put the cherry on top of the.... 'custard'.

How do you like to spend Christmas Day?

Christmas Day is always a day for family. I like to sit and relax and reminisce funny family memories whilst snuggling up next to the fire, my dog and a big box of celebrations.

What’s next for you once the pantomime is finished?

When I finish panto I'm planning a trip to Africa, Malawi to do some volunteering at a school for children with special needs.