We sit down with Chequer Mead panto hall-of-famer Callum Donnelly, who after nine years of playing the ‘Buttons’ role, is finally coming into his own in an upcoming production of Robin Hood.
You’ve been a familiar face in the Chequer Mead panto for a decade now. Can you believe it’s been ten years?
It’s absolutely amazing. I was actually inquiring about something else when someone said they were looking for a comic at a new venue. Little did I know I’d still be here ten years later.
What do you remember about your first pantomime?
It was Beauty and the Beast. We had a baking scene where the audience threw dough balls at me and I batted them back – classic pantomime chaos. We brought a similar scene back years later because it was so popular.
This year you’re playing Robin Hood, your first lead after years as Buttons. How did you react?
I’ve always loved old English folklore, so I said it would be nice to play a title role in a story I really love for my tenth year. I’m still very much the idiot – falling over, terrible jokes – but we’re editing the story to allow for that.
Favourite backstage memory?
Hiding a cardboard cutout of myself around the theatre – once in a toilet cubicle, which made our stage manager scream. Another time, dancers Sharpied my name on their stomachs to make me laugh mid-scene.
Funniest thing shouted during a performance?
A boy shouted “My mum shops at Waitrose” during a supermarket joke. I asked his name (‘Rupert’) and said, “Well, that figures.”
What can audiences expect from your Robin Hood?
The traditional fight with Little John, plus bigger roles for Maid Marian and the Sheriff, alongside our classic skits.
Why should families come this Christmas?
There’s something for everyone – with grandparents, parents and kids all sharing the same joke, just enjoying different parts of it.
Chequer Mead Theatre, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. As a registered charity located in the heart of East Grinstead, their mission is to foster community, culture and creativity with a vibrant mix of entertainment throughout the year.
