The lead actor in a new festive theatre production says playing a cat is a “wonderful job” to have at this time of year.
The Royal and Derngate in Northampton is running Mog’s Christmas until New Year’s Eve – as part of its Made in Northampton season.
It is based on the bestselling Mog picture book series by Judith Kerr and follows on from Mog the Forgetful Cat, which premiered in 2023.
Faye Lord, who plays Mog, a beloved tabby cat known for her amusing mishaps, said: “I love working as an actor at Christmas, you see so much joy.”
“We feel very lucky to spend Christmas in this lovely place,” she added.
Ms Lord, who wears a wig, makeup and a padded cat suit to achieve the feline appearance, said she loves being able to bring “so much joy” to families.
She was “taken aback” by the children’s reaction to Mog, it was “like a celeb walked on stage.”
Tom England plays the character Uncle Jolly and is part of The Wardrobe Ensemble – which produced the show alongside the Royal and Derngate and The Old Vic.
It is a Bristol-based group of theatre artists which won two awards in 2017 for the production of Education, Education, Education.
“As an actor you don’t often do shows where you don’t have to take yourself too seriously so being able to perform and share that joy is brilliant,” Mr England said.
The 55-minute production is proving popular as a feel-good, family show.
Heather Porte, who plays the mother, Mrs Thomas, said it was “very full on” to be part of an ensemble, because of the fast paced environment and the quick turnarounds.
“The audience’s interaction really does make you go: ‘Yes, let’s keep going’,” she said.
“Everybody is so lovely to work with which makes it really easy.”
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Source URL: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn4dvgk3ev4o