We caught up with EastEnders and Casualty star, Kellie Shirley, ahead of her role as the Wicked Queen this Christmas in our 2024 panto Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs!

1. Are you excited to be coming to Croydon this Christmas?

Absobloodylutely! It’s my old stomping ground. I’m a Croydoner born and bred - I also attended the brilliant Brit school, up the road in Selhurst - where it all kicked off for me.

2. What are you most looking forward to in this year’s panto?

We had a photoshoot the other day and the costume was gorgeous - a lovely, fitted black and red velvet number. I mean, how often do you get to wear royal dresses and robes… and a golden crown too!? I’ve also been trying out my evil cackle around the kitchen.

3. What does doing panto mean to you?

Watching my first Panto (when I was around 6 years old) is what made me realise I wanted to be an actress in the first place. Incidentally, it was at the Fairfield Halls (back in the late 80’s!) so I’ve come full circle. It’s great that my kids can come along and see what I do. It’s also lots of children’s first ever experience of theatre - so it’s extra special to be part of that.

4. What do you enjoy the most about playing a villain?

It’s the best part surly!? I haven’t played many villains in my career so far, so I’m going to relish it.

5. What is your favourite Christmas tradition?

I love so much of it - the excuse to dress up, decorating the tree, mulled wine on tap (accompanied by loads of Michael Bublé on the airwaves!) love buying presents and seeing Christmas though my kids eyes - it’s the best. Until recently (I had a baby last year) I have volunteered over the years, at my local Foodbank and I’m going to miss it this year (with doing Panto). Christmas is also about spreading the love and places like The Trussell Trust give hope to people who are struggling in our communities. I’ll make sure I donate extra Christmas food items instead - which isn’t so Wicked Queen is it!?

Don't miss Kellie this festive season in Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs, coming to Fairfield Halls from Friday 13 December 2024 – Sunday 5 January 2025.