Kat B (Jack and the Beanstalk and The Wiz , Hackney Empire) will star as Billy Goose, alongside Ruth Lynch (making her professional debut) as Priscilla the Goose, Holly Mallett (Andy and The Odd Socks, Glastonbury/UK Tour; Notflix: The Improvised Musical, Soho Theatre) as Jill Purchase, Tony Marshall (Casualty (1993 – 2021); Jitney, Old Vic/Leeds Playhouse) as Squire  Purchase, Rebecca Parker (Cats, West End; Crazy For You, West End) as Demon Queen, Ope Sowande (Moulin Rouge, Piccadilly  Theatre; The Lion King, International Tour) as Jack Goose, and Gemma Wardle (Les Miserables in Concert, Gielgud Theatre; Fame, Cambridge Theatre) as Fairy Fame.
They join previously announced Olivier award – winning panto royalty Clive Rowe, starring in his 15th pantomime at Hackney Empire as Mother Goose. Clive also returns to direct this year’s pantomime, alongside Will Brenton (Writer), Steven Edis (Original Songs), Cleo Pettitt (Costume Designer), Renell Shaw (Musical Director: Orchestrations and Arrangements),
André Fabien Francis (Choreographer), David W Kidd (Lighting Designer) and Yvonne Gilbert(Sound Designer).

 

A Career in the Performing Arts

Kat B’s career into the performing arts began just shy of her 10th birthday. Starting off at Theatre Royal Stratford east Drama Group and Dance Studios before going onto teach at Theatre Royal Stratford. She recalls how her educational background itself is non-existant. Taking the view that if you are an aspiring performer, the key is ensuring you have English and Maths under our belt.

When asked about bringing her character to life on stage, Kat B finds it simply the most amazing experience. She recalls how her mom was always very supportive and continually pushed her to go for her dreams. 

“not everything that glistens is gold so stay grounded, eat well and drink well, sleep well and don’t follow the in crowd, as not every cast member will lead you in the right direction… Self-preservation is key, and always stay pure and humble”

In finding inspiration Kat B points to the Posse, with  special mention to Eddie Mister and Robbie G, the BB crew, who she dedicated one of her shows to. Kat believes you always have to remember that for every rejection there’s still an opportunity to do something else, and what isn’t right for now will eventually be right for tomorrow. That the expectation you put on yourself as a performer, and the expectation of others; whilst challenging as a professional performer; it is equally important to not take yourself too seriously. To have a strong network of people that can adivse you, and support you mentally through the tough times.

Tickets are now on sale from www.hackneyempire.co.uk