The Magic Behind the Panto: Unveiling the Unseen Heroes
The show must go on, but who ensures it does? Behind the glitz and laughter of every pantomime lies a hidden world of quick-change artistry and backstage heroes. Meet the dynamic mother-daughter duo, guardians of the Leeds panto's magic, who have been working tirelessly for almost three decades.
For 29 years, Kath Harrison, 76, and her daughter Helen Shippin, 43, have been the fairy godmothers of the Leeds pantomime, transforming chaos into enchantment. Their journey began when Helen, then a budding dancer, landed a role at the Leeds Civic Theatre, and the rest, as they say, is history.
But here's where the story gets fascinating: these ladies are the backstage wizards, ensuring the cast shines under the spotlight. One of their most challenging tasks? Dressing the panto dame, who undergoes up to 10 costume changes per show! Imagine transforming a leotard-clad performer into a giant cupcake in mere seconds.
"We had to be swift," Helen recalls. "We'd rip off one costume and pass the new wig to the performer, fastening them up as they rushed back on stage. It's a team effort, and we've mastered it!"
And this is the part most people miss: the meticulous planning and organization required to pull off such feats. During the panto season, which spans from November to January, they attend every rehearsal, meticulously organizing costumes and props. And when the show begins, they wash, dry, and iron dozens of garments after each performance, ensuring perfection.
"I take great pride in my work," says Kath, who won't send anyone onstage with unwashed or creased clothing. But the challenges don't end there. They're also on standby for unexpected repairs, from mending torn trousers to fixing broken shoes.
But wait, there's more! Helen is the go-to problem solver when things go awry. From operating puppets to playing the cow, she's done it all. And when the technician's wife went into labor, she even stepped in to operate the stage lights!
This year's panto, Sleeping Beauty, holds a special place in the theatre's history, marking 20 years since its opening. With over a million audience members and 2,000 productions, the theatre has become a second home to Kath and Helen, fostering lifelong friendships.
Helen, who balances her panto duties with a full-time job, cherishes the panto family. "We support each other like family," she says. "It's a unique bond."
So, would they ever consider a quieter Christmas? Not a chance! Kath declares, "As long as I enjoy it, I'll keep going. It's pure magic!"
And there you have it, the untold story of the Leeds panto's backstage heroes. But the question remains: what other secrets and challenges lie behind the curtain? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
