Rishi Manuel is appearing in Hackney Empire’s popular panto this year, playing the part of Wishy in Aladdin.
We asked Rishi to share his thoughts about joining the company and on the panto tradition in general.
Where: Hackney Empire
When: 23 Nov-31 Dec 2023
Ticket link: https://www.hackneyempire.co.uk/events/aladdin
It’s panto time, which is always exciting. And Hackney Empire deliver one of the best. What should folks expect this year?
Yes, panto season is here! There’s so much to expect this year – an amazingly talented cast and fantastic set. It’s going to be a spectacle!
Aladdin, like most classic pantos, is all about fun, bad jokes, and of course Widow Twankey! What’s it like playing Wishy in this ensemble?
Wishy has been so much fun to play!
It’s my first pantomime experience as an actor so I’ve been learning a lot from Clive Rowe and the rest of the cast and crew and we’ve all been having a blast.
Wishy is so silly and innocent and has his fair share of bad jokes!
Why do you think panto remains so popular and accessible to all ages?
It’s an amazing gateway into the world of theatre for everyone.
Easy, well-known stories with bright colours, stunning music, and superb tricks – it’s impossible to get bored.
Song and dance is so crucial to panto’s success. Is it fun to let your hair down in this show?
The music and choreography have been so much fun to play with. Myles and Alex (the choreographer and MD) have been having as much fun as we have in creating this wonderful show.
Everyone is singing and dancing with big smiles on their faces – even when we’re singing backstage! There’s been a lot of laughter throughout the entire rehearsal process.
How easy is it to get an audience of children onside these days when they are so used to technology and flashy spectacle?
The kids really enjoy watching pantomime. I remember going to panto when I was a kid and couldn’t take my eyes off the stage and nothing has changed!
They love booing and cheering and clapping and singing along – there’s enough flashy spectacles in this show for anyone not to get distracted!
How would you describe Hackney Empire’s Aladdin in three words?
Hilarious. Epic. Magical!
Image credit: Steve Gregson