Southampton’s Countdown to Christmas weekender is just around the corner with actor and comedian, Kev Orkian will be leading the fun before he heads back to Mayflower Theatre to star in our pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, as Silly Simon.
Another Britain’s Got Talent alumni, the 2024 winner, Sydnie Christmas, will be joining him in kicking off Southampton’s Christmas festivities. She will be performing Christmas songs and classics such as My Way, Tomorrow and Over the Rainbow.
From 4pm on Friday 15 November, roaming street theatre including Ghost Caribou, Christmas Mariachi and The Curiosity Christmas Tree will parade the streets as well as live music from local acts such as Southampton Rock Choir, Sophie Edge and Sound Pop Academy. From 6 – 9pm on Friday and Saturday Carlton Place and Oxford Street will come alive with some festive fun too.
The Countdown to Christmas is On!
To prepare Kev for the Christmas Countdown, we threw some quick-fire Christmas questions his direction.
What does pantomime mean to you?
Pantomime is a theatre art form that I have loved from when I was a child. The most important genre of entertainment for all children and their first experience in live theatre. It brings together every style of immersive and interactive theatre under one production.
What are you going to be doing on Christmas day this year?
This Christmas, I am spending the day with my family at home with my 11 year olds, watching a Bruce Willis special and eating a full roast with all the trimmings.
What is your favourite Christmas tradition?
Traditionally my favourite Christmas tradition is watching my kids opening their presents and watching them tick off their Christmas list.
You performed in Southampton in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs last year alongside Ashley Banjo and Diversity, how do you feel to be returning once again this year?
For me, it’s like seeing my family again. The Banjo’s and Diversity are awesome human beings, and so talented. Working with them allows me to expand my opportunities and delve into new comedic ideas, that bring hilarity to all our routines.
Do you think this year is the year that Ashley Banjo lets you join Diversity?
Ashley has no choice, I have been practicing all year for this, I am DIVERSITY!!!
What would you say to our audiences who are thinking about booking tickets to this year’s pantomime?
Don’t think of booking? Just book!!! If you wait any longer, you’ll miss out as tickets are selling incredibly fast.
